Luke 2:29
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 2:29
29 Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:
Chapter Context
Luke 2 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, worship, fellowship. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-52: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 2:29
29 Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:
Analysis
Simeon's Nunc Dimittis begins: 'Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word' (νῦν ἀπολύεις τὸν δοῦλόν σου, δέσποτα, κατὰ τὸ ῥῆμά σου ἐν εἰρήνῃ). The verb 'apolyō' (ἀπολύω, let depart/release) can mean dismissal from service or peaceful death. Simeon had received God's promise (rēma, ῥῆμα, specific word) that he would not die before seeing the Messiah (v.26). Now, having seen 'thy salvation' (τὸ σωτήριόν σου, v.30), he is ready to die in 'eirēnē' (εἰρήνη, peace/shalom)—complete fulfillment and rest. This expresses the deepest satisfaction of completed purpose. Simeon's life mission was to witness Messiah; now he can depart content.
Historical Context
Simeon's age is unspecified, but tradition depicts him as elderly, having waited decades for this moment. His words became part of Christian evening prayer (Compline) in liturgical traditions. The phrase 'depart in peace' echoes Jacob's words after seeing Joseph alive (Genesis 46:30): 'Now let me die, since I have seen thy face.' Simeon's peaceful readiness for death contrasts sharply with worldly fear of mortality, demonstrating how encounter with Christ transforms death's meaning.
Reflection
- What does Simeon's peaceful acceptance of death teach about how seeing Christ should affect our view of mortality?
- How does Simeon's example challenge us to evaluate whether we have found our life's true purpose in Christ?
Word Studies
- Word: λόγος (Logos) G4487 - Word, reason, message
Cross-References
- References Lord: Luke 2:26, Revelation 14:13
- Peace: Genesis 15:15
- Parallel theme: Philippians 1:23