King James Version

What Does Luke 2:30 Mean?

Luke 2:30 in the King James Version says “For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,” — study this verse from Luke chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,”

Luke 2:30 · KJV

Salvation

Context

28

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

29

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

30

For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,

31

Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;

32

A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Simeon declares: 'For mine eyes have seen thy salvation' (ὅτι εἶδον οἱ ὀφθαλμοί μου τὸ σωτήριόν σου). The perfect tense 'eidon' (εἶδον, have seen) emphasizes completed action with continuing effects—he has seen and continues to possess this vision. 'Sōtērion' (σωτήριον, salvation) is neuter, referring to the means or instrument of salvation—the infant Jesus Himself is God's salvation incarnate. The possessive 'thy salvation' (σου) identifies Jesus as God's provision, planned from eternity. This echoes Isaiah 52:10: 'all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God.' Simeon recognizes the universal scope of Christ's mission (v.31-32: 'a light to lighten the Gentiles'), expanding beyond Jewish particularism.

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Historical & Cultural Context

In Luke's theology, salvation (sōtēria) encompasses forgiveness of sins (1:77), deliverance from enemies, healing, and restoration. Simeon's declaration that salvation would be 'prepared before the face of all people' (v.31) challenged Jewish assumptions about Gentile exclusion. Within 20 years of Jesus' resurrection, the gospel would reach Rome, Antioch, and beyond, vindicating Simeon's prophecy. The humble presentation of a poor couple's baby became the hinge-point of salvation history.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Simeon's identification of the infant Jesus as salvation itself deepen our understanding of the incarnation?
  2. What does Simeon's prophecy about Gentile inclusion teach about God's universal saving purposes?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 8 words
ὅτι1 of 8

“For”

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

εἶδον2 of 8

“have seen”

G1492

used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl

οἱ3 of 8
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ὀφθαλμοί4 of 8

“eyes”

G3788

the eye (literally or figuratively); by implication, vision; figuratively, envy (from the jealous side-glance)

μου5 of 8

“mine”

G3450

of me

τὸ6 of 8
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

σωτήριόν7 of 8

“salvation”

G4992

defender or (by implication) defense

σου8 of 8

“thy”

G4675

of thee, thy

Study Guide

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 2:30 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Luke 2:30 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Isaiah 49:6Genesis 49:18Luke 3:6Isaiah 52:10Luke 2:10-112 Samuel 23:1-5

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