Hebrews 5:2
Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity.
Original Language Analysis
μετριοπαθεῖν
have compassion
G3356
μετριοπαθεῖν
have compassion
Strong's:
G3356
Word #:
1 of 11
to be moderate in passion, i.e., gentle (to treat indulgently)
τοῖς
G3588
τοῖς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἀγνοοῦσιν
on the ignorant
G50
ἀγνοοῦσιν
on the ignorant
Strong's:
G50
Word #:
4 of 11
not to know (through lack of information or intelligence); by implication, to ignore (through disinclination)
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
5 of 11
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
πλανωμένοις
on them that are out of the way
G4105
πλανωμένοις
on them that are out of the way
Strong's:
G4105
Word #:
6 of 11
to (properly, cause to) roam (from safety, truth, or virtue)
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
8 of 11
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
αὐτὸς
himself
G846
αὐτὸς
himself
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
9 of 11
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
Cross References
Hebrews 4:15For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.Hebrews 2:18For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.Hebrews 7:28For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was since the law, maketh the Son, who is consecrated for evermore.Hebrews 12:13And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.2 Corinthians 12:5Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities.Galatians 4:13Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first.
Historical Context
Leviticus 4-5 prescribed sacrifices for unintentional sins. The high priest's own weakness meant he could identify with fellow sinners, but it also limited his effectiveness compared to the sinless Christ.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christ's ability to sympathize without sinning provide better help than mere human compassion?
- In what ways do your own weaknesses help you minister compassionately to others?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The high priest can 'deal gently' (Greek 'metriopathein' - moderate passions) with the ignorant and wayward because he himself is 'beset with weakness.' This shared humanity produces compassion. Yet this also meant Aaronic priests needed sacrifices for their own sins (5:3). Christ surpasses this - He sympathizes with our weakness (4:15) but without sin, thus needing no personal atonement. His sinless yet sympathetic priesthood perfectly meets our need.