The answer is: 84

Luke 2:37

Anna the prophetess holds a remarkable place in the Bible as one of the few women explicitly named and celebrated for her faith and devotion. By the time she encounters the infant Jesus in the temple, Anna is said to be 84 years old. This detail captures the essence of longevity and dedication. Imagine being a hopeful, prayerful woman daily seeking the coming of the Messiah for decades!

What’s fascinating is that Anna isn’t just any ordinary person. She embodies wisdom and patience, qualities often cherished in many spiritual traditions. She spent much of her life as a widow—spending her days fasting and praying in the temple. This persistent devotion not only set her apart but also opened her eyes to recognize Jesus for who he truly was, highlighting how spiritual insight often relies on personal commitment.

Additionally, in ancient cultures, a woman’s worth was often measured by motherhood or youth. Yet here, Anna’s age and her singular focus on spiritual matters make her a powerful role model for anyone pursuing a deeper understanding of faith. Her acknowledgment of Jesus symbolizes the broader acceptance of divine truth, dismantling conventional norms about the age and gender limitations of who could encounter and represent holiness.

Isn’t it inspiring to think of Anna? She reminds us that every moment spent in faithful seeking can be a step toward profound revelations. And in the broader narrative of Jesus' life, her presence symbolizes continuity—an echo of the rich tapestry of people's stories paving the way to new beginnings.