Hebrews 3:15

Authorized King James Version

While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἐν
While
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#2
τῷ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
λέγεσθαι
it is said
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#4
Σήμερον
To day
on the (i.e., this) day (or night current or just passed); generally, now (i.e., at present, hitherto)
#5
ἐὰν
if
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
#6
τῆς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
φωνῆς
voice
a tone (articulate, bestial or artificial); by implication, an address (for any purpose), saying or language
#8
αὐτοῦ
his
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#9
ἀκούσητε
ye will hear
to hear (in various senses)
#10
Μὴ
not
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#11
σκληρύνητε
harden
to indurate, i.e., (figuratively) render stubborn
#12
τὰς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
καρδίας
hearts
the heart, i.e., (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle
#14
ὑμῶν
your
of (from or concerning) you
#15
ὡς
as
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#16
ἐν
While
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#17
τῷ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#18
παραπικρασμῷ
the provocation
irritation

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 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 divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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