"Nunc dimittis" - what does it really mean?

 

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As the end-credits roll for the acclaimed 1979 BBC television adaptation of John le Carré's "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy", the haunting voice of a young chorister sings the 'Nunc dimittis'. For those acquainted with Night Prayer (Compline), the opening words – "Nunc dimittis servum tuum, Domine" – are instantly recognisable. 

But what exactly is this ancient phrase saying? What layers of meaning lie within its concise Latin form?

Based on their hazy recollection of the story, many people think the phrase "Nunc dimittis" means "Now you may depart," - an intransitive verb emanating from the mouth of God...

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In the Gospel of Luke (2:29-32), the tale is recounted of Simeon, this devout old man in Jerusalem, blessed with a divine promise that he would not meet his end before beholding the Messiah. When Mary and Joseph bring the infant Jesus to the Temple, Simeon, guided by the Spirit, recognises him.

In that pivotal moment, holding the child in his arms, Simeon utters those now-famous words:

"Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace,
according to your word;
for my eyes have seen your salvation
that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel."

These English verses translate directly from the opening lines of the Latin text:

Nunc dimittis servum tuum, Domine, secundum verbum tuum in pace:

Breaking down the first part, "Nunc dimittis," reveals its literal construction. "Nunc" is straightforward, meaning "now." The crux lies in "dimittis." This is the second-person singular, present active indicative form of the verb dimitto, which means "to send away," "to dismiss," "to release," or "to let go."

Therefore, "Nunc dimittis" literally translates as "Now you dismiss" or "Now you are sending away."

But could "dimittis" be subjunctive or conditional, implying a wish or a condition directed at God? 

While the sentiment – Simeon asking God to release him – is present, the indicative mood signifies a statement of present reality as perceived by Simeon. He isn't pleading or wishing; he is recognizing and accepting what he believes God is now doing.

The full impact of the phrase becomes clearer when we consider the object of the verb. The Latin text continues with "servum tuum," meaning "your servant," in the accusative case.

So, Simeon is essentially saying to God, "Now, Lord, you are dismissing your servant," or more idiomatically, "Now you are letting your servant depart."

The following line, "secundum verbum tuum in pace" ("according to your word, in peace"), underscores the fulfillment of God's promise and Simeon's resulting peace.

"Domine" is in the vocative (God is being addressed by Simeon) while "servum tuum" is in the accusative (the object of the dismissal, Simeon himself).