{Devout} (eulab(8873)). Used only by Luke ( Ac 2:5  8:2  22:12 ) in the N.T. Common in ancient Greek from Plato on. It
means taking hold well or carefully (eu and labein) and so
reverently, circumspectly. {Looking for the consolation of
Israel} (prosdechomenos parakl(8873)in tou Israel). Old Greek verb
to admit to one's presence ( Lu 15:2 ) and then to expect as here
and of Anna in verse  38 . {Parakl(8873)in} here means the Messianic
hope ( Isa 11:10  40:1 ), calling to one's side for cheer. {Upon
him} (ep' auton). This is the explanation of his lively
Messianic hope. It was due to the Holy Spirit. Simeon and Anna
are representatives of real piety in this time of spiritual
dearth and deadness.