Hebrews 9:13

Authorized King James Version

For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh:

Word-by-Word Analysis

εἰ

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

τὸ

G3588

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

αἷμα

G129

the blood

blood, literally (of men or animals), figuratively (the juice of grapes) or specially (the atoning blood of christ); by implication, bloodshed, also k

ταύρων

G5022

of bulls

a bullock

καὶ

G2532

and

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

τράγων

G5131

of goats

a he-goat (as a gnawer)

καὶ

G2532

and

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

σποδὸς

G4700

the ashes

ashes

#10

δαμάλεως

G1151

of an heifer

a heifer (as tame)

#11

ῥαντίζουσα

G4472

sprinkling

to render besprinkled, i.e., asperse (ceremonially or figuratively)

#12

τοὺς

G3588

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

#13

κεκοινωμένους

G2840

the unclean

to make (or consider) profane (ceremonially)

#14

ἁγιάζει

G37

sanctifieth

to make holy, i.e., (ceremonially) purify or consecrate; (mentally) to venerate

#15

πρὸς

G4314

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

#16

τὴν

G3588

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

#17

τῆς

G3588

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

#18

σαρκὸς

G4561

of the flesh

flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e., (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or

#19

καθαρότητα

G2514

the purifying

cleanness (ceremonially)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Hebrews, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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

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 passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this verse's literary context within Hebrews chapter 9 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

Related Resources

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

Topics

Faith
Hope