Anna was a prophetess of great age, a widow who departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. When the infant Jesus was brought to be presented, she recognised him at once, gave thanks, and spoke of him to all who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
Her name is the Greek form of Hannah, meaning grace. She is a beautiful picture of a lifetime of faithful waiting, rewarded at last by seeing the Lord's salvation with her own eyes.
Anna is a graceful, international classic — simple, elegant, and beloved everywhere.
Variants & nicknames
Ana, Anne, Annie, Hannah, Anya
Anna in the Bible
And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.