Essential

The Nunc Dimittis (Canticle of Simeon)

Nunc dimittis

The Nunc Dimittis is the canticle spoken by the aged Simeon when Mary and Joseph presented the Child Jesus in the Temple, as recorded in Luke 2:29-32. Simeon recognizes Christ as the promised salvation, the light of the nations, and the glory of Israel. The Church has sung this canticle at the close of the day for centuries. In the Liturgy of the Hours, it forms the Gospel canticle at Compline, or Night Prayer. Catholics pray it with gratitude for Christ’s coming and with peaceful trust as they prepare for sleep and, ultimately, for death.

Now thou dost dismiss thy servant, O Lord, according to thy word in peace; Because my eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all peoples: A light to the revelation of the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

In Latin

Nunc dimittis servum tuum, Domine, secundum verbum tuum in pace: quia viderunt oculi mei salutare tuum, quod parasti ante faciem omnium populorum: lumen ad revelationem gentium, et gloriam plebis tuae Israel. Gloria Patri, et Filio, et Spiritui Sancto. Sicut erat in principio, et nunc, et semper, et in saecula saeculorum. Amen.

When to pray it: Pray it at Compline or before sleep as an act of peaceful trust in Christ.

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