Ἄννα (Anna)
Anna
Anna
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Anna appears only once in the New Testament, recorded in Luke 2:36 as a prophetess in Jerusalem. Her presence marks a significant moment during the presentation of the infant Jesus at the Temple, where she recognizes and speaks about him.
Etymologically, the Greek form Ἄννα derives from the Hebrew חָנָה (ḥānâ), meaning "grace." This linguistic connection underscores the theological weight of her testimony; she is a witness to grace made visible in the person of Christ. As a member of the tribe of Asher, one of the northern tribes often overlooked in Jewish narratives, her inclusion highlights the inclusive scope of the gospel message.
Though brief, Anna’s role is vital. She does not merely observe but actively proclaims, serving as a bridge between the old covenant expectations and the new reality. Her story reminds readers that God uses diverse voices—across tribal lines and generations—to reveal His purposes.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Anna’s name means grace, and her life in Luke’s Gospel shows us what that looks like in practice. She waited many years for God’s promise to unfold, living with patience and hope while others moved on. Her story reminds us that faithfulness is not measured by how quickly we see results, but by our steady trust in God’s timing.
When she finally saw Jesus, she did not keep the discovery to herself. Instead, she spoke about Him to everyone who was waiting for Jerusalem to be saved. This simple act of sharing good news connects us to the ancient hope of God’s people. It invites us to look for signs of grace in our own lives and to share what we find with those around us.
Anna’s inclusion also highlights that God values every voice, regardless of age or background. Her testimony bridges the old expectations with the new reality of Christ. We can take comfort in knowing that our stories, however long the wait, have a place in God’s plan for redemption.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Anna1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Ἅννα1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 2:36
There was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher (she was of a great age, having lived with a husband seven years from her virginity,
This verse introduces Anna as a prophetess whose long life of waiting culminates in recognizing Jesus as the fulfillment of Israel's hope.