The Presentation of the Lord in the Temple
30 X 40 - acrylic on birch panel
The Presentation in the Temple
from the Gospel of Luke (2:22-40)
In accordance with Jewish Law, the Blessed Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph brought Jesus to the temple when He was 40 days old. The law required that a lamb be offered as a sacrifice, however the couple was not financially able to bring a lamb so Joseph brought a pair of doves instead --- also stated in the law.
There was a "just and pious" man named Simeon who had been told by the Holy Spirit that the Messiah was coming as a child. It was revealed to Simeon that he would not experience death until he had seen Him.
As soon as Mary arrived holding the Child in her arms, Simeon knew who He was and pronounced:
"Lord, now let your servant depart in peace according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation which you have prepared before the face of all people; to be a light to lighten the Gentiles and to be the glory of your people Israel."
Luke 2:29-32
This is known as the Song of Simeon or Nunc dimittis, said at vespers or evening prayer since the 4th Century.
Also arriving on the scene is Anna, an 84-year old widow, a prophetess, who lived in the temple. Upon seeing Christ, she began giving thanks to God.
Painted for an Orthodox church.
Feast Day: February 2nd (40 days after Christmas) Celebrated in the Roman Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican and Lutheran Churches. It is the oldest of Church celebrations.
NOTE: The candles in the scene represent Candlemas which for centuries has been celebrated on the same day as the Presentation. People bring their candles for the year to the church to be blessed. The candles then represent Christ's Light in the world.
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