The answer is: 84

Luke 2:37

Anna the prophetess stands out as one of the remarkable figures in the New Testament. At 84 years old, she serves as a fantastic example of unwavering faith and devotion. Picture this: Anna had been a widow for many years—she likely experienced love, loss, and everything in between. Living in the Temple, she devoted her life to worship, prayer, and fasting. This part of her life, demonstrated through Luke 2:37, is exemplary not only of godly patience but adds to the overall vibrancy of women in Scripture.

Fun fact: Anna’s life resembles that of Simeon, who also encounters the young Jesus during his presentation at the Temple. Together, they embody the attribute of spiritual watchfulness, illustrating how spiritually attuned individuals can discern God’s presence and purpose even in the most ordinary events. The examples they depict signal the shifts happening in the roles of men and women in faith practices.

Moreover, the name Anna can be related to "Hannah," who famously dedicated her son Samuel to God, showing yet another level of connection between godly mothers and prophetic witness in the Scripture. By embracing various roles — widow, prophetess, mentor — Anna reminds us how history has been shaped by women enduring trials while passionately seeking after the Divine.

Isn’t it intriguing to consider all these narratives intertwining? They deliver powerful lessons on joy, hope, and the importance of presence—spiritually and literally—at the moments placed along our paths.