The offerings serve as a means of atonement and restoration of ceremonial purity, allowing the woman to re-enter the community’s religious life. The provision for a less costly (turtle doves for a lamb) offering underscores God’s compassion and consideration for the economic circumstances of the individual, ensuring that all women, regardless of their financial status, could fulfill the requirements of the law.[1]
Church Fathers have observed that Mary had no need for atonement for legal impurity (as opposed to moral impurity, which she did not have either). Nevertheless, she submitted to the Law as Jesus did at His baptism by JtB. (Mt 3:13-15)[2]
VII. Prophecy of Simeon (Sorrow of Mary)[3]
Consolation of Israel- Yahweh would rescue people from Gentile (Roman) rule, a very common aspiration ANE (NT Wright Jesus and the Victory of God)
Isaian prophecies (Is 40:1, 52:9, 61:2-3)
Nunc Dimittis, now dismiss, common refrain in Night Prayer, Isaian prophecy fulfilled in Jesus
The fall and rising- sorrow of Mary, Israel will divide based on Jesus
A sword shall pierce, maternal suffering
Simeon enters great prophecy at moment of Presentation. In small way, can see public ministry begins even within private life. Living fullness of Temple lie. Time si short before Flight to Egypt.
During exile, from Temple religious obligations. Immigrant, under Roman rule in Egypt same as in Holy Land.
Public recognition, Simeon & Anna, public proclamation, who is visiting the Temple.
VIII. Anna the Prophetess
Miriam Ex 15:20, Deborah Judge 4:4, Huldah 2 Kings 22:14
Anna recognized interpreted of God’s will for Israel
Redemption of Jerusalem- Anna awaits God’s deliverance for Israel and the Holy City. Her expectations mirrors those of Simeon.
Public Proclamation
No, Simeon was not the high priest when Jesus was brought to the Temple for purification. Simeon, as described in the Gospel of Luke (Luke 2:25-35), was a devout and righteous man in Jerusalem who had been promised by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before seeing the Messiah. When Mary and Joseph brought the infant Jesus to the Temple for purification and presentation, Simeon recognized Jesus as the promised Savior and prophesied about His future.
The high priest at that time was likely Caiaphas, who served from around AD 18 to AD 36. However, the Gospel account does not mention the high priest in connection with Jesus’ presentation at the Temple. Instead, it focuses on Simeon and the prophetess Anna, both of whom recognized Jesus’ significance.
Mercy of God, parallels. A&E at creation with God, walk with Him. Preternatural life A&E life full of grace. Almost attribute of Marian, then fall. Both of them fall, greater falls to Adam.
Sante, 6 hours in Eden, parallels Crucifixion, does not take long to Fall after creation.
Movement in reverse.
Simeon & Anna, moving toward proclamation, Savior has come. Both of the, pointing to perfection of Grace in both Mary & Jesus.
A&E full of grace, fell. See Mary & Jesus, full of grace again, complete the story.
Church given both public proclamation to both to Simeon & Anna, repentant Eve, sees her Savior and Mother.
POV philosophical stance, colors want one reads. Skepticism?
Believe then understand, Faith seeking understanding. Anslem.
Thomas Kuhn & Nagel, honest atheist, prior attitude skepticism is untenable. Scientific Revolution
[1] https://biblehub.com/topical/p/purification_after_childbirth.htm accessed January 7, 2025
[2] Catholic Study Bible, Old and New Testament (Ignatius Press: San Francisco 2024) 1834
[3] Catholic Study Bible, Old and New Testament (Ignatius Press: San Francisco 2024 1834-1835