Hebrews 8:4

Authorized King James Version

For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
εἰ
if
if, whether, that, etc
#2
μὲν
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
#3
γὰρ
For
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#4
ἦν
be
i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)
#5
ἐπὶ
on
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
#6
γῆς
earth
soil; by extension a region, or the solid part or the whole of the terrene globe (including the occupants in each application)
#7
οὐδ᾽
not
not however, i.e., neither, nor, not even
#8
ἂν
he should
whatsoever
#9
ἦν
be
i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)
#10
ἱερέων
a priest
a priest (literally or figuratively)
#11
ὄντων
seeing that there are
being
#12
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
ἱερέων
a priest
a priest (literally or figuratively)
#14
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
προσφερόντων
that offer
to bear towards, i.e., lead to, tender (especially to god), treat
#16
κατὰ
according
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#17
τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#18
νόμον
to the law
law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of moses (including the volume); also of the gospel), or figurat
#19
τὰ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#20
δῶρα·
gifts
a present; specially, a sacrifice

Analysis

Within the broader context of Hebrews, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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