And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.
Ver. 25. Just and devout] Or wary and cautious, ευλαβης; one that takes heed and is fearful of being deceived in that which he takes for right and current.
Waiting for the consolation of Israel] That is, for Christ's coming. This was the sugar wherewith they sweetened all their crosses: this was the dittany, a by tasting whereof (as harts do) they shook off all the piercing shafts of their afflictions. Some Jews conclude the Messiah when he comes shall be called Menahem, the Comforter, from Lamentations 1:6 .
a A labiate plant, Origanum Dictamnus, called also Dictamnus Creticus or dittany of Crete; formerly famous for its alleged medicinal virtues. ŒD