Hebrews 1:13

Authorized King James Version

But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
πρὸς
to
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
#2
τίνα
which
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#3
δὲ
But
but, and, etc
#4
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
ἀγγέλων
G32
of the angels
compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor
#6
εἴρηκέν
said he
an alternate for g2036 in certain tenses; to utter, i.e., speak or say
#7
ποτε
at any time
indefinite adverb, at some time, ever
#8
Κάθου
Sit
and ???? (to sit; akin to the base of g1476); to sit down; figuratively, to remain, reside
#9
ἐκ
on
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#10
δεξιῶν
right hand
the right side or (feminine) hand (as that which usually takes)
#11
μου
my
of me
#12
ἕως
a conjunction, preposition and adverb of continuance, until (of time and place)
#13
ἂν
until
whatsoever
#14
θῶ
I make
to place (in the widest application, literally and figuratively; properly, in a passive or horizontal posture, and thus different from g2476, which pr
#15
τοὺς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#16
ἐχθρούς
enemies
hateful (passively, odious, or actively, hostile); usually as a noun, an adversary (especially satan)
#17
σου
thine
of thee, thy
#18
ὑποπόδιον
footstool
something under the feet, i.e., a foot-rest (figuratively)
#19
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#20
ποδῶν
a "foot" (figuratively or literally)
#21
σου
thine
of thee, thy

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Hebrews Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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