Book of Luke - Chapter 2 - Verse 37

This verse describes an elderly widow named Anna who devoted her life to serving God. The phrase "of about fourscore and four years" indicates that she was around eighty-four years old. Despite her age, Anna remained dedicated to God and spent all her time in the temple, fasting and praying. The temple was a sacred place where Jews would gather to worship and make offerings to God. Anna's commitment to prayer and fasting demonstrates her deep faith and devotion to God. By mentioning that she did not depart from the temple, the verse emphasizes that Anna's entire life revolved around serving God. Her example serves as an inspiration for believers to remain steadfast in their faith and commit themselves wholeheartedly to serving God.

In this verse, the theological interpretation focuses on the faith and dedication of the widow who spent her days in the temple, devoted to serving God through fasting and prayers. The number "fourscore and four years" indicates a long life filled with faithful service to God. The widow's commitment to worshiping God day and night exemplifies a deep spiritual life, emphasizing the importance of continual prayer and fasting in the Christian journey. The word "temple" holds significant theological weight, symbolizing the presence of God and the center of worship for the Jewish people. This verse highlights the widow's exceptional devotion and sets an example for believers to prioritize their relationship with God above all else, showing the power of prayer and fasting in drawing closer to God.