Hebrews 3:11
So I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest.)
Original Language Analysis
ὡς
So
G5613
ὡς
So
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
1 of 12
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ὀργῇ
wrath
G3709
ὀργῇ
wrath
Strong's:
G3709
Word #:
5 of 12
properly, desire (as a reaching forth or excitement of the mind), i.e., (by analogy), violent passion (ire, or (justifiable) abhorrence); by implicati
εἰς
into
G1519
εἰς
into
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
9 of 12
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Hebrews 4:3For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.Deuteronomy 2:14And the space in which we came from Kadesh-barnea, until we were come over the brook Zered, was thirty and eight years; until all the generation of the men of war were wasted out from among the host, as the LORD sware unto them.Hebrews 4:9There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God.Hebrews 4:5And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest.Psalms 95:11Unto whom I sware in my wrath that they should not enter into my rest.Numbers 14:35I the LORD have said, I will surely do it unto all this evil congregation, that are gathered together against me: in this wilderness they shall be consumed, and there they shall die.
Historical Context
Numbers 14:21-23 records this oath after Israel's refusal to enter Canaan. Except Joshua and Caleb, that entire generation died in the wilderness, never experiencing the promised land rest.
Questions for Reflection
- What does God's oath teach about the certainty of His judgments and promises?
- How does the reality of divine judgment motivate holy living and sharing the gospel?
Analysis & Commentary
God's oath ('ōmosa' - I swore) carries absolute certainty. 'They shall not enter my rest' pronounces irrevocable judgment on the unbelieving generation. The 'rest' typologically points beyond Canaan to the eternal rest of salvation. Reformed theology sees this as illustrating God's justice in judging persistent unbelief and the reality of reprobation - not all will be saved, despite outward religious affiliation.