The Story Unfolds
When the time came for the purification rites required by the Law of Moses, Joseph and Mary took Jesus to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, "Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord"). Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Messiah. Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God.
Story Summary
Mary and Joseph present baby Jesus at the temple, where Simeon recognizes the Messiah.
Masterpiece Showcase
Artwork Details
"The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple"
Ambrosius Benson
c. 1540
Oil on wood
Royal Museums of Fine Arts, Brussels
Curator's Insights
About the Art
Benson's painting captures the intimate moment of recognition between the aged Simeon and the infant Jesus in a detailed temple setting.
About the Artist
Ambrosius Benson was a Flemish Renaissance painter known for his religious scenes and detailed architectural backgrounds.
Historical Context
This work reflects the Northern Renaissance tradition of combining religious devotion with meticulous observational detail.
Techniques Used:
Symbolism:
- Temple setting represents Old Testament meeting New
- Simeon's age shows fulfillment of prophecy
- Light represents divine recognition
Interactive Art Adventure
Look Closer
- Look at Simeon's gentle hands holding baby Jesus
- Notice the detailed architecture of the temple
- See the expressions of Mary and Joseph watching
Creative Spark
Simeon had waited his whole life to see Jesus. Draw or write about something you're excited to wait for.