Candlemas
Jesus is presented in the temple. Simeon and Anna meet the child.
Bibelsk grunnlag
Forty days after his birth, Jesus is brought to the temple according to the Law of Moses (Luke 2:22-38). Simeon, who had been promised that he would see the Lord's Anointed before he died, takes the child in his arms and sings the Nunc dimittis: "Lord, now let your servant depart in peace... for my eyes have seen your salvation, a light to reveal you to the nations and the glory of your people Israel." He prophesies to Mary: "A sword will pierce your own soul too." The prophetess Anna gives thanks to God and bears witness about the child.
Betydning
The meeting between the old and the new covenant — Simeon and Anna represent the waiting remnant of Israel who finally see the fulfillment of salvation. The motif of light is central: Jesus is the light of the world, revealed in the temple. Simeon's prophecy about the sword points toward Good Friday — the joy over the child already carries a foretaste of suffering.
GT-forbindelser
Leviticus 12:1-8 concerning the purification offering after childbirth — Mary and Joseph offer the sacrifice for the poor: two turtledoves. Exodus 13:2 about how every firstborn belongs to the Lord. Malachi 3:1: "The Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple." Isaiah 42:6 and 49:6 concerning the light for the nations.
Liturgisk kontekst
White color. The name "Candlemas" (Light Mass) comes from the procession and blessing of candles. In Catholic tradition, the church candles for the year are blessed on this day. The Nunc dimittis is sung daily in evening prayer/completorium.
Historie
The celebration on February 2nd (40 days after December 25th) was known in Jerusalem as early as the 300s, when it was called Hypapante (The Meeting). The candle procession began to appear from the 400-500s. In folk tradition, Candlemas marked the midpoint of winter and longer days.