Albert Barnes Commentary Luke 2:25

"And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Spirit was upon him." — Luke 2:25 (ASV)

Whose name was Simeon. Some have supposed that this Simeon was a son of the famous Hillel, a distinguished teacher in Jerusalem, and president of the Sanhedrin; but nothing is certainly known of him except for what is related here. He was an elderly man, of distinguished piety and reputation, and was anxiously expecting the coming of the Messiah.

Such an old age is especially honorable. No sight is more sublime than an elderly man of piety and high character looking for the appearing of the Lord, and patiently waiting for the time to come when he may be blessed with the sight of his Redeemer.

Just. Righteous before God and man; approved by God as a righteous man, and faithfully discharging his duty to man.

Devout. This word means a religious man, or a pious man. The original expresses the idea of good reputation, well received, or of high standing among the people.

Waiting for the consolation of Israel. That is, waiting for the Messiah, who is called the consolation of Israel because he would give them comfort by his appearing. This term was often applied to the Messiah before he actually appeared. It was common to swear, also, by "the consolation of Israel"—that is, by the Messiah about to come. See Lightfoot on this passage.

The Holy Ghost, etc. He was a holy man, and was divinely inspired concerning the Messiah about to appear.