Hebrews 2:15

Authorized King James Version

And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
καὶ
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#2
ἀπαλλάξῃ
deliver
to change away, i.e., release, (reflexively) remove
#3
τούτους
them
these (persons, as objective of verb or preposition)
#4
ὅσοι
who
as (much, great, long, etc.) as
#5
φόβῳ
fear
alarm or fright
#6
θανάτου
of death
(properly, an adjective used as a noun) death (literally or figuratively)
#7
διὰ
through
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
#8
παντὸς
all
all, any, every, the whole
#9
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
ζῆν
their lifetime
to live (literally or figuratively)
#11
ἔνοχοι
subject
liable to (a condition, penalty or imputation)
#12
ἦσαν
were
i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)
#13
δουλείας
to bondage
slavery (ceremonially or figuratively)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Hebrews. The concept of life reflects the development of salvation 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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