Hebrews 5:4

Authorized King James Version

And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron.

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

οὐχ

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

ἑαυτῷ

G1438

unto himself

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

τις

G5100

man

some or any person or object

λαμβάνει

G2983

taketh

while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))

τὴν

G3588

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

τιμήν

G5092

this honour

a value, i.e., money paid, or (concretely and collectively) valuables; by analogy, esteem (especially of the highest degree), or the dignity itself

ἀλλὰ

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

ὁ

G3588

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

#10

καλούμενος

G2564

he that is called

to "call" (properly, aloud, but used in a variety of applications, directly or otherwise)

#11

ὑπὸ

G5259

under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (

#12

τοῦ

G3588

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

#13

θεοῦ

G2316

God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

#14

καθάπερ

G2509

exactly as

#15

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#16

ὁ

G3588

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

#17

Ἀαρών

was Aaron

aaron, the brother of moses

Analysis

Within the broader context of Hebrews, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 this verse's literary context within Hebrews chapter 5 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

Related Resources

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

Topics

Faith
Hope