Herod the Great's Temple, often referred to as the Second Temple, was a grand reconstruction of the original temple built by Zerubbabel. Herod's ambitious project began around 20-19 BC and was not fully completed until long after his death. This temple served as the religious and cultural heart of Jewish life during the time of Jesus.

One of the significant events recorded in the New Testament that took place in Herod's Temple is the blessing of the infant Jesus by Simeon. This event is detailed in the Gospel of Luke, chapter 2, verses 25-35. According to the account, Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the temple in Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord, as was customary under the Law of Moses for the firstborn male child (Luke 2:22-24).

Simeon, described as a righteous and devout man, was in Jerusalem at the time. The Holy Spirit had revealed to him that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Messiah. Moved by the Spirit, Simeon went into the temple courts. When Mary and Joseph brought in the child Jesus to do for Him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took Him in his arms and praised God, saying:

"Now, Master, You can dismiss Your servant in peace, according to Your word. For my eyes have seen Your salvation, which You have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to Your people Israel" (Luke 2:29-32).

Simeon's blessing is significant for several reasons. It acknowledges Jesus as the fulfillment of God's promise of salvation, not only for Israel but also as a light to the Gentiles. This prophetic declaration highlights the universal scope of Jesus' mission and the inclusive nature of God's redemptive plan.

Furthermore, Simeon blessed Mary and Joseph and spoke prophetically to Mary about the future suffering and division that Jesus would bring, saying, "Behold, this Child is appointed to cause the rise and fall of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed—and a sword will pierce your own soul as well" (Luke 2:34-35).

This encounter in Herod's Temple underscores the temple's role as a place of divine revelation and fulfillment of prophecy. It also foreshadows the pivotal role Jesus would play in the history of Israel and the world. Herod's Temple, therefore, serves as a backdrop for this profound moment in the life of Jesus, marking the intersection of Jewish tradition and the unfolding of the New Covenant.Luke 2:25-35
And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was on him.
Nave's Topical Index

What is the temple tax? | GotQuestions.org

How many times did Jesus cleanse the temple? Why did He cleanse the temple? | GotQuestions.org

What was the significance of the temple veil being torn in two when Jesus died? | GotQuestions.org

Temple: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus