Luke 2:36-38

Luke 2:36-38

[36] And  one Anna,  a prophetess,  the daughter  of Phanuel,  of  the tribe  of Aser:  she  was of a great  age,  and had lived  with  an husband  seven  years  from  her  virginity;  [37] And  was a widow  fourscore  and four  years,  which  departed  not  the temple,  but served  God with fastings  and  prayers  night  and  day.  [38] And  coming in  that  instant  gave thanks likewise  and  spake  of  him  to all  them that looked  for redemption  Jerusalem. 

What does Luke 2:36-38 Mean?

Contextual Meaning

Anna, whose name is equivalent to the Hebrew Hannah, was a female prophetess (cf. Exodus 15:20; Judges 4:4; 2 Kings 22:14; Nehemiah 6:14; Isaiah 8:3; Luke 18:1-860; Acts 21:9; 1 Corinthians 11:5). Her mention continues Luke"s interest in the renewal of prophecy at this time (cf. Luke 1:67; Luke 2:34-35). Perhaps Luke referred to Anna"s ancestors to validate her Jewishness.
"Curiously enough, the tribe of Asher alone is celebrated in tradition for the beauty of its women, and their fitness to be wedded to High-Priest or King." [1]
Anna"s husband had died seven years after their marriage, and she had remained a widow since then to her present age of84. Luke contains about43references to women, four of whom were widows ( Luke 2:36-40; Luke 7:11-15; 1714093144_1; Luke 21:1-4). Anna was a widow who had devoted herself to the worship and service of God in the temple (cf. 1 Timothy 5:5). Luke again recorded God"s providential timing in bringing this godly woman to Jesus then (cf. Luke 2:27). As Simeon, she was anticipating God"s deliverance of Israel through Messiah (cf. Luke 2:25). Luke used "Jerusalem" figuratively (i.e, metonymy) for Israel (cf. Isaiah 52:9). God gave Anna insight into Jesus" identity. The godly in Jerusalem undoubtedly learned about Messiah"s birth from Simeon and Anna (cf. Luke 1:68).
"They represent the long history of an expectant people, nourished by God"s promise. Zechariah and Elizabeth also fit this character type. They, too, are righteous, careful observers of the law ( Luke 1:6), old ( Luke 1:7), and filled with the prophetic Spirit when they recognize the fulfillment of God"s promise ( Luke 1:41; Luke 1:67). These people represent their faith at its best, according to the values of the implied author, even though Zechariah has temporary doubts. To them the coming of the long awaited salvation is revealed." [2]