And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.

LUKE 2:25KJV
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Luke 2:25 (KJV)

What does Luke 2:25 mean?

Luke 2:25 describes a man named Simeon living in Jerusalem, who is described as righteous and deeply reverent toward God. Simeon was waiting in hope for the comfort and help that God had promised to Israel, and God's Spirit was guiding him.

This verse introduces Simeon as someone special in the story of Jesus' early life. The writer highlights Simeon's character—he is both "just" (morally upright) and "devout" (deeply committed to God). The verse also notes that Simeon was looking forward to the "consolation of Israel," a phrase that refers to the long-awaited hope for God's deliverance. The mention that the Holy Spirit was upon him sets up the following verses, where Simeon will play an important role in recognizing Jesus as the Messiah.

The Greek behind Luke 2:25

  • "Just" (δίκαιος, dikaios): This word means upright or righteous, emphasizing Simeon's moral integrity and fairness in his dealings with others.
  • "Devout" (εὐλαβής, eulabēs): This term means careful in religious duties or deeply reverent, showing that Simeon's faith was sincere and active.
  • "Waiting" (προσδεχόμενος, prosdechomenos): The Greek here carries the sense of eagerly expecting or looking forward to something, highlighting Simeon's hope and anticipation for God's promised comfort.
  • "Consolation" (παράκλησις, paraklēsis): This word often means comfort, encouragement, or help. In this context, it refers to the hope that God would bring relief and restoration to Israel.

Why Luke 2:25 matters

  • This verse clarifies that not all in Israel were indifferent or unaware—some, like Simeon, were faithfully waiting for God's promises to be fulfilled.
  • The description of Simeon as both "just" and "devout" shows that personal faithfulness and hope in God's promises were valued, even before Jesus' ministry began.
  • By mentioning the Holy Spirit's presence with Simeon, Luke sets the stage for the Spirit's active role in the events surrounding Jesus' birth and early life, connecting this moment to the broader work of God in the Gospel.

Where else these words appear

“devout” Greek G2126 · used in 3 verses

  • Acts 2:5 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven.
  • Acts 8:2 And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him.

“Simeon” Greek G4826 · used in 7 verses

  • Luke 2:34 And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;
  • Acts 13:1 Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.
  • 2 Peter 1:1 Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ:

“waiting” Greek G4327 · used in 14 verses

  • Mark 15:43 Joseph of Arimathaea, an honourable counsellor, which also waited for the kingdom of God, came, and went in boldly unto Pilate, and craved the body of Jesus.
  • Luke 23:51 (The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them;) he was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God.
  • Philippians 2:29 Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation:

“consolation” Greek G3874 · used in 28 verses

  • Luke 6:24 But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation.
  • 2 Corinthians 1:3 Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;
  • 2 Corinthians 8:17 For indeed he accepted the exhortation; but being more forward, of his own accord he went unto you.