d
for a sign which shall be contradicted.

For the fall, etc... Christ came for the salvation of all men; but here
Simeon prophesies what would come to pass, that many through their own
wilful blindness and obstinacy would not believe in Christ, nor receive
his doctrine, which therefore would be ruin to them: but to others a
resurrection, by their believing in him, and obeying his commandments.

2:35. And thy own soul a sword shall pierce, that, out of many hearts
thoughts may be revealed.

2:36. And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of
the tribe of Aser. She was far advanced in years and had lived with her
husband seven years from her virginity.

2:37. And she was a widow until fourscore and four years: who departed
not from the temple, by fastings and prayers serving night and day.

2:38. Now she, at the same hour, coming in, confessed to the Lord: and
spoke of him to all that looked for the redemption of Israel.

2:39. And after they had performed all things according to the law of
the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their city Nazareth.

2:40. And the child grew and waxed strong, full of wisdom: and the grace
of God was in him.

2:41. And his parents went every year to Jerusalem, at the solemn day of
the pasch.

2:42. And when he was twelve years old, they going up into Jerusalem,
according to the custom of the feast,

2:43. And having fulfilled the days, when they returned, the child Jesus
remained in Jerusalem. And his parents knew it not.

2:44. And thinking that he was in the company, they came a day's journey
and sought him among their kinsfolks and acquaintance.

2:45. And not finding him, they returned into Jerusalem, seeking him.

2:46. And it came to pass, that, after three days, they found him in the
temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, hearing them and asking
them questions.

2:47. And all that heard him were astonished at his wisdom and his
answers.

2:48. And seeing him, they wondered. And his mother said to him: Son,
why hast thou done so to us? Behold thy father and I have sought thee
sorrowing.

2:49. And he said to them: How is it that you sought me? Did you not
know that I must be about my father's business?

2:50. And they understood not the word that he spoke unto them.

2:51. And he went down with them and came to Nazareth and was subject to
them. And his mother kept all these words in her heart.

2:52. And Jesus advanced in wisdom an