Luke 2:29 Meaning and Explanation
“Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Simeon prays that God may now release His servant in peace, for the promise has been kept.
What Does Luke 2:29 Mean?
Simeon's song begins as a servant's release. He addresses God as a master whose servant he is, and asks to depart, to be dismissed from his post, in peace, according to thy word. The watchman has seen what he was stationed to watch for; the watch can end.
Simeon speaks of death without dread, as a discharge granted by a faithful Lord. Because God's word has proven true, the servant can lay down his charge in peace. The verse has steadied generations of believers at the end of life: when one has seen Christ, death loses its terror and becomes a dismissal into rest. Peace at the last flows from a promise kept.
Luke 2:29 in the Original Language
despotes (δεσπότης), 'Lord' -- a sovereign master; Simeon answers as his servant.
Frequently Asked Questions About Luke 2:29
What does Luke 2:29 mean?
Simeon prays that God may now release His servant in peace, for the promise has been kept.