Hebrews 6:20

Authorized King James Version

Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ὅπου
Whither
what(-ever) where, i.e., at whichever spot
#2
πρόδρομος
the forerunner
a runner ahead, i.e., scout (figuratively, precursor)
#3
ὑπὲρ
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
#4
ἡμῶν
us
of (or from) us
#5
εἰσῆλθεν
entered
to enter (literally or figuratively)
#6
Ἰησοῦς
even Jesus
jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites
#7
κατὰ
after
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#8
τὴν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
τάξιν
the order
regular arrangement, i.e., (in time) fixed succession (of rank or character), official dignity
#10
Μελχισέδεκ
of Melchisedec
melchisedek (also melchisedec or malki-tsedek)
#11
ἀρχιερεὺς
an high priest
the high-priest (literally, of the jews; typically, christ); by extension a chief priest
#12
γενόμενος
made
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
#13
εἰς
for
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#14
τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
αἰῶνα
ever
properly, an age; by extension, perpetuity (also past); by implication, the world; specially (jewish) a messianic period (present or future)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Hebrews. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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

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