Hebrews 8:12

Authorized King James Version

For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ὅτι
For
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#2
ἵλεως
merciful
cheerful (as attractive), i.e., propitious; adverbially (by hebraism) god be gracious!, i.e., (in averting some calamity) far be it
#3
ἔσομαι
I will be
will be
#4
ταῖς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
ἀδικίαις
G93
unrighteousness
(legal) injustice (properly, the quality, by implication, the act); morally, wrongfulness (of character, life or act)
#6
αὐτῶν,
their
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
#7
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#8
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
ἁμαρτιῶν
sins
a sin (properly abstract)
#10
αὐτῶν,
their
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
#11
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#12
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
ἀνομιῶν
iniquities
illegality, i.e., violation of law or (genitive case) wickedness
#14
αὐτῶν,
their
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
#15
οὐ
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#16
μὴ
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#17
μνησθῶ
will I remember
to bear in mind, i.e., recollect; by implication, to reward or punish
#18
ἔτι
more
"yet," still (of time or degree)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Hebrews, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of righteousness connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about righteousness, 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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Hebrews Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes righteousness in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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