King James Version

What Does Luke 2:29 Mean?

“Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:”

Context

And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,

Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,

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

For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,

Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;

Read full chapter →

Topics in This Verse

Peace

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(29) **Now lettest thou thy servant depart in** **peace.**—It is not expedient to alter the translation, but we have to remember that the central idea is that of the manumission of a slave. The word for Lord is not the usual *Kyrios,* but *Despotes*—a word but seldom used of God, and then almost always of the relation of a master and the slave who is such by inheritance or purchase (Acts 4:24; 2Peter 2:1; Jude Luke 2:4; Revelation 6:10, are the only other instances of its use). Simeon speaks as a slave who, through the night of long, weary years, has been standing on the watch-tower of expectation, and is at last set free by the rising of the Sun. **According to thy word.**—The reference is to the oracle which had been uttered within his soul, and was now being fulfilled.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Luke. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Luke 2:29 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.