Song of Simeon
Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace
The Song of Simeon embodies the Lutheran understanding of salvation as the fulfillment of Old Testament promises realized in Christ, emphasizing that redemption extends to all peoples. It reflects the joy of faith recognizing Christ as the promised Messiah and Savior of both Jews and Gentiles.
History & Background
Martin Luther created a German metrical version of the biblical Nunc dimittis (Song of Simeon) around 1524 for liturgical use. This ancient canticle, sung by Simeon at Jesus' presentation in the temple, became a standard part of Lutheran Compline and evening prayer services.
Recorded in Luke 2:29-32, Simeon’s song is the final (fourth) Scripture References “great” canticle in Luke 1-2 (see also 212, 213, and 214). This st. 1= Luke 2:29-30 song ofjoy and peace is part of the gospel account of the st. 2 = Luke 2:31-32 presentation ofJesus in the temple, involving first Simeon and then Anna (w. 21-40), who express thanks that salvation in Christ is for Jew and Gentile alike. Simeon’s song is often called the Nunc Dimittis, after its incipit in Latin. Dewey Westra versified the text in Detroit in 1931 for the 1934 Psalter Hymnal; it was revised slightly for the 1987 edition. The Nunc Dimittis has traditionally been paired with the Magnificat for Vespers or evening services and is still sung daily in churches with a tradition of daily prayer services (see 247 for more information on this tradition) .John Calvin used it at the end of the Lord’s Supper. In the Scottish Kirk, if communion was served at both services, Psalm 103 would be used at the end of the morning Lord’s Supper and the Song of Simeon at the end of the afternoon or evening Lord’s Supper. 351 THE PSALMS, BIBLE SONGS, AND HYMNS
Hymnal Appearances
- The Hymnal 1982 — 499
- Psalter Hymnal — 216
- The Lutheran Hymnal — p. 29
Translation
Liturgical Use
Suitable as a hymn for dismissal, especially after the Lord’s Supper, and during Epiphany, since it brings to focus the worldwide character and task of the church. Also appropriate for funerals.
Bulletin Note
Luther's 1524 paraphrase of Simeon's canticle (Luke 2:29–32) transforms the aged temple-priest's ancient prayer into a hymn of universal redemption, anchoring the evangelical promise that Christ is the light of all peoples.
Preaching Connection
This hymn crystallizes the movement from Law to Gospel: centuries of waiting and longing (the law's promise) culminate in Simeon's rapturous encounter with Christ, the fulfillment that brings peace and salvation to all nations.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Simeon's canticle fulfilled: the Law's patient longing met by Gospel revelation; from faithful waiting to universal salvation-light
Themes
Salvation revealed to all nations Christ as light of the world Simeon's faith and fulfillment Salvation history