There was a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, having lived with her husband seven years from her virginity, and as a widow till she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshipping with fasting and prayer night and day.

Coming up at that very hour she gave thanks to God and spoke of him to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem. When they had performed everything according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their city, Nazareth.

The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom, and the favor of God was upon him. His parent went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the Passover. When he was twelve years old, they went up according to custom, and when the feast was ended, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem.

His parent did not know it, but supposing him to be in their company they went on a day's journey, and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintances, and when they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking him.

After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions.
All who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers.

When they saw him they were astonished, and his mother said to him, Son, why have you treated us so?
Behold, your father and I have been looking for you anxiously.

He said to them, how is it that you sought me?
Did you not know that I must be at my father's house?
They did not understand the saying that he spoke to them. He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them, and his mother kept all these things in her heart.

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