Simeon didn't receive this knowledge through the normal method of learning. This knowledge was revealed to him directly from the Holy Spirit. This revelation knowledge which comes only from God is distinctly different than knowledge acquired through study.
Man's knowledge is based on observation. It cannot give perfect instruction about the future. God's knowledge can. Through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit we can know things to come (John 16:13).
When dealing with God, revelation knowledge is essential. The Lord's ways are not always our ways (Isaiah 55:8). A fear of trusting the intuitive knowledge that God gives us will cause us to miss many blessings of God.
If he hadn't received it and anticipated its fulfillment, what a blessing he would have missed! He would not have been led into the temple at exactly the right moment to see the salvation of the Lord.
We need to ask for and expect to receive revelation knowledge from the Lord. God desires to impart it more than we desire to receive it. Great blessings comes to those who will not depend solely on their own understanding (Proverbs 3:5).
