Hebrews 7:13

Authorized King James Version

For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἐφ'
he of
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
#2
ἧς
which
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#3
γὰρ
For
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#4
λέγεται
are spoken
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#5
ταῦτα
these things
these things
#6
φυλῆς
tribe
an offshoot, i.e., race or clan
#7
ἑτέρας
to another
(an-, the) other or different
#8
μετέσχηκεν
pertaineth
to share or participate; by implication, belong to, eat (or drink)
#9
ἀφ'
of
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
#10
ἧς
which
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#11
οὐδεὶς
no man
not even one (man, woman or thing), i.e., none, nobody, nothing
#12
προσέσχηκεν
gave attendance
(figuratively) to hold the mind (3563 implied) towards, i.e., pay attention to, be cautious about, apply oneself to, adhere to
#13
τῷ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
θυσιαστηρίῳ·
at the altar
a place of sacrifice, i.e., an altar (special or genitive case, literal or figurative)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

Related Resources

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

Topics