Ἅννα

Anna

Definition

Ἅννα (Anna) is the name of a prophetess in the New Testament, specifically mentioned in Luke 2:36-38. She was a devout widow of advanced age who worshipped continually in the temple. Her primary significance is as a witness to the infant Jesus, recognizing Him as the promised redemption for Jerusalem. The name itself is the Greek form of the Hebrew name 'Hannah,' meaning 'grace' or 'favor.'

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Luke 2:36. It functions strictly as a proper noun, identifying the specific individual, Anna the prophetess. The context is her encounter with the infant Jesus in the temple during the presentation, where she speaks about Him to all who were awaiting Jerusalem's redemption.

Etymology

Ἅννα is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew name חַנָּה (Hannah), meaning 'grace' or 'favor.' It is not derived from the Greek elements ἀ- (not) and a root 'nna' as previously suggested. The name is famously borne by Hannah, the mother of Samuel in the Old Testament (1 Samuel 1:2).

Semantic Range

Anna represents the faithful remnant of Israel who were awaiting the Messiah. Her prophetic witness, alongside Simeon's (Luke 2:25-35), confirms Jesus' identity as the fulfillment of Old Testament promises. Her story highlights God's faithfulness to those who persevere in prayer and worship, and it shows the inclusion of women as authoritative witnesses in the Gospel narrative.

As a prophetess, Anna held a recognized religious role, though details of such a role in Second Temple Judaism are sparse. Her advanced age (84) and lifelong widowhood devoted to temple service would have been seen as marks of exceptional piety and dedication. Her immediate recognition of the Messiah contrasts with the broader failure of the religious establishment to perceive Him.

προφῆτις (prophētis, G4398) — The specific term for a female prophet, which is Anna's title.

Word Details

Scripture References