Hebrews 11:33

Authorized King James Version

Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οἳ
Who
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#2
διὰ
through
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
#3
πίστεως
faith
persuasion, i.e., credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of god or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon christ
#4
κατηγωνίσαντο
subdued
to struggle against, i.e., (by implication) to overcome
#5
βασιλείας
kingdoms
properly, royalty, i.e., (abstractly) rule, or (concretely) a realm (literally or figuratively)
#6
εἰργάσαντο
wrought
to toil (as a task, occupation, etc.), (by implication) effect, be engaged in or with, etc
#7
δικαιοσύνην
righteousness
equity (of character or act); specially (christian) justification
#8
ἐπέτυχον
obtained
to chance upon, i.e., (by implication) to attain
#9
ἐπαγγελιῶν
promises
an announcement (for information, assent or pledge; especially a divine assurance of good)
#10
ἔφραξαν
stopped
to fence or inclose, i.e., (specially), to block up (figuratively, to silence)
#11
στόματα
the mouths
the mouth (as if a gash in the face); by implication, language (and its relations); figuratively, an opening (in the earth); specially, the front or e
#12
λεόντων
of lions
a "lion"

Analysis

This verse develops the covenant theme central to Hebrews. The concept of faith reflects the development of covenant within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes pistis in Greek, encompassing both belief and faithfulness, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood faith. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics