Hebrews 5:3

Authorized King James Version

And by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

διὰ

G1223

by reason

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

ταὐτὴν

G5026

hereof

(towards or of) this

ὀφείλει

G3784

he ought

to owe (pecuniarily); figuratively, to be under obligation (ought, must, should); morally, to fail in duty

καθὼς

G2531

just (or inasmuch) as, that

περὶ

G4012

for

properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas

τοῦ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

λαοῦ

G2992

the people

a people (in general; thus differing from g1218, which denotes one's own populace)

οὕτως

G3779

in this way (referring to what precedes or follows)

#10

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#11

περὶ

G4012

for

properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas

#12

ἑαυτοῦ

G1438

himself

(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc

#13

προσφέρειν

G4374

to offer

to bear towards, i.e., lead to, tender (especially to god), treat

#14

ὑπὲρ

G5228

for

"over", i.e., (with the genitive case) of place, above, beyond, across, or causal, for the sake of, instead, regarding; with the accusative case super

#15

ἁμαρτιῶν

G266

sins

a sin (properly abstract)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Hebrews, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
In what ways does understanding covenant community in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within Hebrews chapter 5 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

Faith
Hope