New Testament
Luke 2:37
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we learn about Anna, a widow who was around 84 years old.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
And she was a widow of about 84 years, who never left the temple, but served God with fasting and prayers night and day.
And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about Anna, a widow who was around 84 years old. She dedicated her life to serving God in the temple, engaging in fasting and prayer continuously, both day and night. Her unwavering commitment highlights the importance of devotion and faithfulness in one's spiritual life. Anna's presence in the temple signifies her deep longing for God and her role as a prophetess, sharing the hope of redemption. Her life serves as an example of how one can remain steadfast in faith, even in difficult circumstances. Anna's story encourages believers to prioritize their relationship with God and to be persistent in prayer and worship, showing that age and life challenges do not hinder one's ability to serve and connect with the divine. Her dedication also emphasizes the communal aspect of faith, as she was part of the larger worshiping community in the temple, reminding us of the importance of fellowship in our spiritual journeys.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 2:37 to your life
Anna's example teaches us the value of consistent prayer and service to God. Regardless of our circumstances, we can dedicate time to seek God through prayer and fasting. This encourages us to remain faithful and engaged in our spiritual lives, fostering a deeper relationship with God.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 2:37 mean?
Luke 2:37 describes Anna, an 84-year-old widow who devoted her life to serving God in the temple through fasting and prayer. Her dedication illustrates the importance of unwavering faith and commitment to spiritual practices.
Who is Anna in Luke 2:37?
Anna is a prophetess mentioned in Luke 2:37, known for her lifelong dedication to worshiping God in the temple. Her story highlights her role as a faithful servant and her hope for redemption.
What is the significance of fasting in Luke 2:37?
In Luke 2:37, fasting represents Anna's deep commitment to God and her spiritual discipline. It emphasizes the importance of seeking God earnestly through prayer and self-denial.
What does 'never left the temple' mean in Luke 2:37?
The phrase 'never left the temple' in Luke 2:37 indicates Anna's constant presence in a place of worship, symbolizing her dedication to God and her community. It shows her commitment to a life of prayer and service.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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