What does Luke 2:26 mean?

The man mentioned here is named Simeon (Luke 2:25), the same as one of Israel's tribal ancestors (Genesis 29:33). Over hundreds of years, Israel was given prophecies predicting the arrival of a Savior. This Mashiyach, or "Messiah," was predicted to be the One to win a final victory over evil and to restore Israel for all eternity (Jeremiah 23:5; Isaiah 9:6–7; 40:1–5; 57:18). Simeon is one of the Israelites expectantly longing to see this figure arrive.

Scripture does not tell us anything else about Simeon, other than that he was devout and heavily influenced by the Holy Spirit. One result of that spiritual influence was the divine promise explained in this verse.

Readers and commentators often presume Simeon was very old when he finally saw Jesus (Luke 2:27)—however, the Bible says nothing about his age. He was given a promise that he would live long enough to see Messiah on earth, not that he would die immediately afterwards, or that fulfillment would not happen until he was old. It's not unreasonable to conclude Simeon was elderly, but neither is it necessary.

Simeon's relationship with the Holy Spirit will bring him to the temple as Joseph and Mary are presenting Jesus to fulfill cleanliness rites (Luke 2:22–24). Through the influence of the Spirit, he will recognize the infant Savior and praise God for sending "a light of revelation" (Luke 2:28–32). This is followed by a dire prediction for Mary, indicating that the controversy of Jesus' ministry will result in her own personal, emotional pain (Luke 2:34–35).