Hebrews 3:8

Authorized King James Version

Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
μὴ
not
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#2
σκληρύνητε
Harden
to indurate, i.e., (figuratively) render stubborn
#3
τὰς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
καρδίας
hearts
the heart, i.e., (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle
#5
ὑμῶν
your
of (from or concerning) you
#6
ὡς
as
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#7
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#8
τῷ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
παραπικρασμῷ
the provocation
irritation
#10
κατὰ
in
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#11
τὴν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
ἡμέραν
the day
day, i.e., (literally) the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole 24 hours (but several days were usually reckoned by the jews as inclusive of
#13
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
πειρασμοῦ
of temptation
a putting to proof (by experiment (of good), experience (of evil), solicitation, discipline or provocation); by implication, adversity
#15
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#16
τῇ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#17
ἐρήμῳ
the wilderness
lonesome, i.e., (by implication) waste (usually as a noun, g5561 being implied)

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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