Righteous Anna the Prophetess
Commemorated on August 28, February 3
Righteous Anna the
Prophetess was descended from the tribe of Aser, and was the daughter of
Phanuel. Having married, she lived with her husband for 7 years until his
death. After his death, Righteous Anna led a strict and pious life, "not
leaving the Temple, and serving God both day and night in fasting and
prayer" (Lk. 2: 37). When Righteous Anna was 84 years old, she was
vouchsafed to see at the Jerusalem Temple the Infant Jesus Christ, brought for
dedication to God as a firstborn under the Mosaic law. Righteous Anna heard the
prophetic words of Saint Simeon the God-Receiver, spoken to the MostHoly Mother
of God. The Prophetess Anna together with Saint Simeon glorified God, and told
everyone, that the Messiah was come into the world (Lk. 2: 38).
The memory of
Righteous Anna occurs also on 3 February, when she is remembered together with Righteous
Simeon the God-Receiver, on the Afterfeast of the Sretenie-Meeting of the Lord.
© 1996-2001 by translator Fr. S. Janos.