Hebrews 12:26

Authorized King James Version

Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven.

Word-by-Word Analysis

οὗ

G3739

Whose

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

ἡ

G3588

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

φωνὴ

G5456

voice

a tone (articulate, bestial or artificial); by implication, an address (for any purpose), saying or language

τὴν

G3588

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

γῆν

G1093

the earth

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

ἐσάλευσεν

G4531

shook

to waver, i.e., agitate, rock, topple or (by implication) destroy; figuratively, to disturb, incite

τότε

G5119

then

the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)

νῦν

G3568

now

"now" (as adverb of date, a transition or emphasis); also as noun or adjective present or immediate

δὲ

G1161

but

but, and, etc

#10

ἐπήγγελται

G1861

he hath promised

to announce upon (reflexively), i.e., (by implication) to engage to do something, to assert something respecting oneself

#11

λέγων,

G3004

saying

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

#12

Ἔτι

G2089

Yet

"yet," still (of time or degree)

#13

ἅπαξ

G530

once more

one (or a single) time (numerically or conclusively)

#14

ἐγὼ

G1473

i, me

#15

σείω

G4579

shake

to rock (vibrate, properly, sideways or to and fro), i.e., (generally) to agitate (in any direction; cause to tremble); figuratively, to throw into a

#16

οὐ

G3756

not

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

#17

μόνον

G3440

only

merely

#18

τὴν

G3588

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

#19

γῆν

G1093

the earth

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

#20

ἀλλὰ

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

#21

καὶ

G2532

also

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

#22

τὸν

G3588

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

#23

οὐρανόν

G3772

heaven

the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)

Analysis

This verse develops the covenant theme central to Hebrews. The concept of divine revelation 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 careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 covenant 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 passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How does this verse's literary context within Hebrews chapter 12 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of covenant, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of theology of covenant and God's relational commitment?

Related Resources

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

Topics

Faith
Hope