The answer is: Anna

Luke 2:36 - daughter of Phanuel.

Let’s dive a little deeper into this remarkable encounter in the temple! Anna, the prophetess, is a captivating figure who adds richness to the Nativity story. Luke tells us that she was also known as the daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher—a rather uncommon designation since the tribes of Israel were often highlighted in contexts of generations and lineages.

Anna is mentioned alongside Simeon, painting a beautiful picture of two elderly souls who had devoted their lives to worship and prayer. While only a handful of verses are dedicated to these two, the depth of their faith and understanding shines through. Hannah has been recognized as a symbol of wisdom and hope, embodying the light of recognizing the holy in mundane circumstances. Think about it: she had spent years in the temple, fasting and praying, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Messiah. When she finally glimpsed baby Jesus, her joy must have been immeasurable—she instantly spoke about him to all who awaited redemption.

It's interesting to note that Anna's name actually means "favor" or "grace," which can add another layer of meaning to her role in this story. Moreover, some believe that her story echoes the ideal of recognizing divine purpose in everyday life, a theme found throughout Biblical narratives. In any good tale, the characters that see beyond the surface often become the unsung heroes, don't they? Anna certainly fits that bill in the grand narrative of Jesus' early recognition.