This event is not described in the Four Gospels but is mentioned in apocryphal texts such as the Protoevangelium of James (late 2nd century) and the Gospel of Pseudo-Matthew (9th century). These sources, though distinct, complement one another in their accounts. Later, the narrative of the Presentation of the Virgin Mary in the Temple was elaborated upon by numerous authors, including Gregory Palamas, Basil the Great, Jacobus de Voragine (author of the Golden Legend), and Dmitry of Rostov, among others.

According to the apocryphal accounts, an angel announced to Anne the birth of a child, prompting her to vow to dedicate the child to the service of God. When Mary turned three years old, her parents, Joachim and Anne, brought her to the Temple, offering gifts. The High Priest Zechariah kissed the Virgin Mary and proclaimed that the Lord had blessed her name, as through her would come the redemption of Israel. Mary ascended the fifteen steps to the Temple unaided, without looking back at her parents. From that moment, she was raised in the Temple, interacting with angels who brought her sustenance, and, as the apocryphal texts describe, exhibited wisdom and piety beyond her years.

Dmitry of Rostov elaborates that Mary’s life in the Temple followed a strict schedule of prayer, needlework, and study of the Holy Scriptures. She prayed daily in the Holy of Holies, a space where only the High Priest was allowed to enter, and even then, only once a year. When Mary reached the age of twelve or fourteen, the priests decided it was time for her to be betrothed.

Iconography
The icon Presentation of the Virgin Mary in the Temple is one of the Twelve Great Feasts and is almost always depicted in iconostases. The theme also appears in Akathist icons and scenes from the lives of Joachim and Anne. The composition bears some similarity to the iconography of the Presentation of Christ in the Temple, as both depict the offering of a firstborn to God, in accordance with Jewish Law. Icons typically portray Joachim, Anne, and virgins bearing candles as symbols of purity. Mary is often depicted as a three-year-old but frequently appears as a miniature adult woman. From the 16th to 17th centuries, she began to be depicted as youthful, with uncovered hair and wearing a wreath.

The icon also features Zechariah standing near the Temple gates, which are framed by columns and stairs. His figure may combine elements of Old Testament priestly attire and Christian ecclesiastical garments. In the background, architectural elements such as a curtain or the Tablets of the Law may be included, alongside scenes of the Annunciation, Mary reading the Scriptures, or an angel bringing her sustenance.

Mykhailo Skop