Biblical Protestant Prayer
Simeon's Song / Nunc Dimittis
Simeon's Song, also known as the Nunc Dimittis, is a biblical prayer from Luke 2 giving thanks for seeing God's salvation and light for the nations.
Biblical setting
Simeon's Song appears in Luke 2 when Simeon sees the child Jesus in the temple. Having waited for the consolation of Israel, Simeon blesses God and speaks of peace, salvation, light, and glory.
The Latin title Nunc Dimittis comes from the opening idea of departing in peace. The prayer is brief, but it holds deep trust that God's promise has been fulfilled.
Why it matters in Protestant prayer
In Protestant prayer life, Simeon's Song is often associated with peace, fulfillment, evening prayer, readiness, and confidence in God's salvation.
It gives language for resting in God's promises and recognizing Christ as light for the Gentiles and glory for Israel.
How it may be prayed
Simeon's Song may be prayed word for word, read slowly as a prayer of peace, or used as a guide for thanking God for salvation, fulfilled promises, and light in times of waiting.
Source note
PWG currently provides the King James Version wording of Luke 2:29-32 for this Protestant prayer path. Other modern Bible translations may have separate copyright or permission considerations.