Hebrews 11:38

Authorized King James Version

(Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ὧν

G3739

(Of whom

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

οὐκ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

ἦν

G2258

was

i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)

ἄξιος

G514

worthy

deserving, comparable or suitable (as if drawing praise)

ὁ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

κόσμος

G2889

the world

orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

ἐρημίαις

G2047

deserts

solitude (concretely)

πλανώμενοι

G4105

they wandered

to (properly, cause to) roam (from safety, truth, or virtue)

#10

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#11

ὄρεσιν

G3735

in mountains

a mountain (as lifting itself above the plain)

#12

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#13

σπηλαίοις

G4693

in dens

a cavern; by implication, a hiding-place or resort

#14

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#15

ταῖς

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#16

ὀπαῖς

G3692

caves

a hole (as if for light), i.e., cavern; by analogy, a spring (of water)

#17

τῆς

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#18

γῆς

G1093

of the earth

soil; by extension a region, or the solid part or the whole of the terrene globe (including the occupants in each application)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Hebrews, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Hebrews.

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

How does this verse's literary context within Hebrews chapter 11 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

Related Resources

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

Topics

Faith
Hope