What does Luke 2:29 mean?

Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: Luke 2:29

Explanation

The verse Luke 2:29, “Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:”, is a part of the Christian New Testament and is part of a passage known as the Nunc Dimittis, which is a canticle said by Simeon, a devout Jew who was promised by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Messiah. The verse expresses Simeon’s recognition of Jesus as the Messiah and his readiness to die in peace having witnessed the salvation that Jesus represented. The literal meaning refers to Simeon’s imminent death and his sense of fulfillment upon seeing Jesus. There is also a deeper meaning of spiritual peace and fulfillment in finding salvation and recognizing God’s fulfillment of his promise.

Historical Context

The Gospel of Luke was written in a Greco-Roman context, probably around 80-110 AD. The book is said to be authored by Luke the Evangelist, who was a companion of the Apostle Paul. The infancy narrative of Luke, which includes the Canticle of Simeon, may have been based on earlier sources or traditions known to the early Christian community. At the time, there was an expectation among the Jewish people for a coming Messiah who would deliver them. Simeon is presented by Luke as having witnessed the fulfillment of this long-awaited promise.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it fulfills Old Testament prophecies concerning the coming of Messiah, such as Isaiah’s prophecies about a light to the Gentiles. It also represents the fulfillment of God’s personal promise to Simeon and, on a broader spectrum, the faithfulness of God to His word. Additionally, it underscores a theme of peace and assurance that comes from seeing God’s salvation, which for Christians, is personified in Jesus Christ. The canticle of Simeon has been used in Christian liturgy, indicating the importance of this moment when the old covenant meets the new.

Practical Applications

The message from the verse Luke 2:29 can be applied practically in daily life by encouraging believers to trust in God’s promises, waiting patiently for their fulfillment. It teaches about the peace that comes from this trust and that true contentment is found in spiritual fulfillment rather than worldly assurances. It also reminds individuals to acknowledge and appreciate moments of revelation and fulfillment in their lives.

Cross-References

• Isaiah 40:5 – “And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.”
• Isaiah 52:10 – “The Lord hath made bare his holy arm in the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God.”
• Psalm 119:166 – “Lord, I have hoped for thy salvation, and done thy commandments.”

Language Study

The key word in this verse “depart” is translated from the Greek “apoluo,” which can mean to release, dismiss, or let go. The term implies a release from service or duty, in this case, indicating Simeon’s readiness to depart from life. “Peace” comes from the Greek “eirene,” signifying not only the absence of conflict but also a sense of well-being, tranquility, and fulfillment. “According to thy word” emphasizes the importance of God’s promise and His reliability in fulfilling His spoken word.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The theme of an elderly figure awaiting the fulfillment of a divine promise is common in many religious traditions. For example, in Hinduism, the sage Vasishtha waited patiently for the coming of Rama, a divine figure. Simeon’s experience also parallels characters in other ancient cultures who have prophetic encounters or spiritual revelations at the end of their lives, which affirm their beliefs and offer them peace.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern scientific understandings primarily engage with religious texts in a historical or literary context rather than a scientific one. However, psychological studies do engage with the concept of “peace” mentioned in this verse, which can be related to mental and emotional well-being. Research in end-of-life care also touches on the importance of spiritual and psychological peace for individuals nearing death, linking the sentiment expressed in this verse to universal human experiences.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and commentators have offered various interpretations of this verse. John Calvin remarks on the readiness of Simeon to die now that he has seen Christ, a fulfillment that grants him peace. Matthew Henry comments on the patience of Simeon as he waited for the consolation of Israel and emphasizes the joy and satisfaction in God’s salvation. Both affirm this verse showcases God’s punctuality at fulfilling His word and the tranquility that comes with witnessing God’s deliverance.