Book Chapter Verse ID SupportReference OrigQuote Occurrence GLQuote OccurrenceNote HEB front intro xy4n 0 # Introduction to Hebrews
## Part 1: General Introduction

#### Outline of the Book of Hebrews

1. Jesus is superior to God's prophets and angels (1:1-4:13)
1. Jesus is superior to the priests who serve in the temple in Jerusalem (4:14-7:28)
1. Jesus' ministry is superior to the old covenant that God made with his people (8:1-10:39)
1. What faith is like (11:1-40)
1. Encouragement to be faithful to God (12:1-29)
1. Concluding encouragements and greetings (13:1-25)

#### Who wrote the Book of Hebrews?

No one knows who wrote Hebrews. Scholars have suggested several different people who could possibly be the author. Possible authors are Paul, Luke, and Barnabas. The date of writing is also not known. Most scholars think it was written before A.D. 70. Jerusalem was destroyed in A.D. 70, but the writer of this letter spoke about Jerusalem as if it had not yet been destroyed.

#### What is the Book of Hebrews about?

In the Book of Hebrews, the author shows that Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecies. The author did this in order to encourage the Jewish Christians and to explain that Jesus is better than anything that the old covenant had to offer. Jesus is the perfect High Priest. Jesus was also the perfect sacrifice. Animal sacrifices became useless because Jesus' sacrifice was once and for all time. Therefore, Jesus is the one and only way for people to be accepted by God.

#### How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, "Hebrews." Or they may choose a clearer title, such as "The Letter to the Hebrews" or "A Letter to the Jewish Christians." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

#### Can readers understand this book without knowing about the sacrifices and the work of the priests required in the Old Testament?

It would be very difficult for readers to understand this book without understanding these matters. Translators might consider explaining some of these Old Testament concepts in notes or in an introduction to this book.

#### How is the idea of blood used in the Book of Hebrews?

Beginning in [Hebrews 9:7](../../heb/09/07.md), the idea of blood is often used as metonymy to represent the death of any animal that was sacrificed according to God's covenant with Israel. The author also used blood to represent the death of Jesus Christ. Jesus became the perfect sacrifice so that God would forgive people for sinning against him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

Beginning in [Hebrews 9:19](../../heb/09/19.md), the author used the idea of sprinkling as a symbolic action. Old Testament priests sprinkled the blood of the animals sacrificed. This was a symbol of the benefits of the animal's death being applied to the people or to an object. This showed that the people or the object was acceptable to God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

## Part 3: Important Translation Issues

#### How are the ideas of "holy" and "sanctify" represented in Hebrews in the ULT?

The scriptures use such words to indicate any one of various ideas. For this reason, it is often difficult for translators to represent them well in their versions. In translating into English, the ULT uses the following principles:

* Sometimes the meaning in a passage implies moral holiness. Especially important for understanding the gospel is the fact that God views Christians as sinless because they are united to Jesus Christ. Another related fact is that God is perfect and faultless. A third fact that Christians are to conduct themselves in a blameless, faultless manner in life. In these cases, the ULT uses "holy," "holy God," "holy ones," or "holy people."
* Sometimes the meaning indicates a simple reference to Christians without implying any particular role filled by them. In these cases, the ULT uses "believer" or "believers." (See: 6:10; 13:24)
* Sometimes the meaning implies the idea of someone or something set apart for God alone. In these cases, the ULT uses "sanctify," "set apart," "dedicated to," or "reserved for." (See: 2:11: 9:13; 10:10, 14, 29; 13:12)

The UST will often be helpful as translators think about how to represent these ideas in their own versions.

#### What are the major issues in the text of the Book of Hebrews?

For the following verses, modern versions of the Bible differ from older versions. The ULT text has the modern reading and puts the older reading in a footnote. If a translation of the Bible exists in the general region, translators should consider using the reading found in those versions. If not, translators are advised to follow the modern reading.

* "you crowned him with glory and honor" (2:7). Some older versions read, "you crowned him with glory and honor and you have put him over the works of your hands."
* "those who did not unite in faith with those who obeyed" (4:2). Some older versions read, "those who heard it without joining faith to it."
* "Christ came as a high priest of the good things that have come" (9:11). Some modern versions and older versions read, "Christ came as a high priest of the good things that are to come."
* "on those who were prisoners" (10:34). Some older versions read, "of me in my chains."
* "They were stoned. They were sawn in two. They were killed with the sword" (11:37). Some older versions read, "They were stoned. They were sawn in two. They were tempted. They were killed with the sword."
* "If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned" (12:20). Some older versions read, "If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned or shot with an arrow."

(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
HEB 1 intro aaf9 0 # Hebrews 01 General Notes
#### Structure and formatting

This chapter describes how Jesus is more important to us than the angels are.

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 1:5, 7-13, which are words from the Old Testament.

##### "Our ancestors"

The writer wrote this letter to Christians who had grown up as Jews. This is why the letter is called "Hebrews."

#### Important figures of speech in this chapter

##### Rhetorical questions

The author uses rhetorical questions as a way of proving Jesus is better than the angels. Both he and the readers know the answers to the questions, and the writer knows that as the readers think about the answers to the questions, they will realize that God's Son is more important than any of the angels.

##### Poetry

Jewish teachers, like the Old Testament prophets, would put their most important teachings in the form of poetry so that the hearers would be able to learn and remember them.
HEB 1 1 c5f3 0 General Information: Although this letter does not mention the recipients to whom it was sent, the author wrote particularly to Hebrews (Jews), who would have understood the many Old Testament references. HEB 1 1 c5f3 0 General Information: This prologue lays the background for the whole book: the unsurpassing greatness of the Son — the Son is greater than all. The book begins with emphasizing that the Son is better than the prophets and the angels. HEB 1 2 scr8 0 in these last days "in these final days." This phrase refers to the time when Jesus began his ministry, extending until God establishes his complete rule in his creation. HEB 1 2 d386 guidelines-sonofgodprinciples 0 through a Son "Son" here is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) HEB 1 2 i93z figs-metaphor 0 to be the heir of all things The author speaks of the Son as if he will inherit wealth and property from his Father. Alternate translation: "to possess all things" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 1 2 gqj8 0 It is through him that God also made the universe "It is through the Son that God also made all things" HEB 1 3 hn4q 0 the brightness of God's glory "the light of his glory." God's glory is associated with a very bright light. The author is saying that the Son embodies that light and fully represents God's glory. HEB 1 3 b7jc 0 glory, the exact representation of his being "glory, the image of God's being." The "the exact representation of his being" is similar in meaning to "the brightness of God's glory." The Son embodies the character and essence of God and fully represents everything that God is. Alternate translation: "glory and is just like God" or "glory, and what is true about God is true about the Son" HEB 1 3 ms8z figs-metonymy 0 the word of his power "his powerful word." Here "word" refers to a message or command. Alternate translation: "his powerful command" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 1 3 l1pg figs-abstractnouns 0 After he had made cleansing for sins The abstract noun "cleansing" can be expressed as a verb: "making clean." Alternate translation: "After he had finished making us clean from sins" or "After he had finished purifying us from our sins" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 1 3 f729 figs-metaphor 0 he had made cleansing for sins The author speaks of forgiving sins as if it were making a person clean. Alternate translation: "he had made it possible for God to forgive our sins" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 1 3 xij7 translate:translate_symaction 0 he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high To sit at the "right hand of God" is a symbolic action of receiving great honor and authority from God. Alternate translation: "he sat down at the place of honor and authority beside the Majesty on high" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate:translate_symaction]]) HEB 1 3 ir7x figs-metonymy 0 the Majesty on high Here "Majesty" refers to God. Alternate translation: "God Most High" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 1 4 mn1p 0 General Information: The first prophetic quotation (You are my son) comes from the Psalms. The prophet Samuel wrote the second one (I will be a father to him). All occurrences of "he" refer to Jesus, the Son. The word "You" refers to Jesus, and the words "I" and "me" refer to God the Father. HEB 1 4 x4bh 0 He has become "The Son has become" HEB 1 4 fzg3 figs-metonymy 0 as the name he has inherited is more excellent than their name Here "name" refers to honor and authority. Alternate translation: "as the honor and authority he has inherited is superior to their honor and authority" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 1 4 qt7q figs-metaphor 0 he has inherited The author speaks of receiving honor and authority as if he were inheriting wealth and property from his father. Alternate translation: "he has received" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 1 5 ww5h figs-rquestion 0 For to which of the angels did God ever say, "You are my son ... a son to me"? This question emphasizes that God does not call any angel his son. Alternate translation: "For God never said to any of the angels 'You are my son ... a son to me.'" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HEB 1 5 t48e figs-parallelism 0 You are my son ... I have become your father These two phrases mean essentially the same thing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]) HEB 1 6 b6dy 0 General Information: The first quotation in this section, "All God's angels ... him," comes from one of the books that Moses wrote. The second quotation, "He is the one who makes ... fire," is from the Psalms. HEB 1 6 b4s2 figs-metaphor 0 the firstborn This means Jesus. The author refers to him as the "firstborn" to emphasize the Son's importance and authority over everyone else. It does not imply that there was a time before Jesus existed or that God has other sons like Jesus. Alternate translation: "his honored Son, his only Son" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 1 6 n7ph 0 he says "God says" HEB 1 7 isd8 figs-metaphor 0 He is the one who makes his angels spirits, and his servants flames of fire Possible meanings are 1) "God has made his angels to be spirits who serve him with power like flames of fire" or 2) God makes the wind and flames of fire his messengers and servants. In the original language the word for "angel" is the same as "messenger," and the word for "spirits" is the same as "wind." With either possible meaning, the point is that the angels serve the Son because he is superior. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 1 8 vl1n 0 General Information: This scriptual quotation comes from the Psalms. HEB 1 8 p1xx 0 But to the Son he says "But God says this to the Son" HEB 1 8 b155 guidelines-sonofgodprinciples 0 Son This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) HEB 1 8 ewm4 figs-metonymy 0 Your throne, God, is forever and ever The Son's throne represents his rule. Alternate translation: "You are God, and your reign will last forever and ever" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 1 8 k4cf figs-metonymy 0 The scepter of your kingdom is the scepter of justice Here "scepter" refers to the Son's rule. Alternate translation: "And you will rule over the people of your kingdom with justice" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 1 9 t9yw figs-metaphor 0 has anointed you with the oil of joy more than your companions Here "oil of joy" refers to the joy that the Son felt when God honored him. Alternate translation: "has honored you and made you more joyful than anyone else" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 1 10 nsd4 0 General Information: This quotation comes from another Psalm. HEB 1 10 zp5r 0 Connecting Statement: The author continues explaining that Jesus is superior to the angels. HEB 1 10 tmu5 0 In the beginning "Before anything existed" HEB 1 10 j64k figs-metaphor 0 you laid the earth's foundation The author speaks of God creating the earth as if he built a building on a foundation. Alternate translation: "you created the earth" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 1 10 r19v figs-metonymy 0 The heavens are the work of your hands Here "hands" refer to God's power and action. Alternate translation: "You made the heavens" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 1 11 a6le 0 They will perish "The heavens and earth will disappear" or "The heavens and earth will no longer exist" HEB 1 11 qy4e figs-simile 0 wear out like a piece of clothing The author speaks of the heavens and earth as if they were a piece of clothing that will get old and eventually become useless. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HEB 1 12 n4hl figs-simile 0 roll them up like a cloak The author speaks of the heavens and earth as if they were a robe or another kind of outer garment. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HEB 1 12 iv4r figs-simile 0 they will be changed like a piece of clothing The author speaks of the heavens and earth as if they were clothing that could be exchanged for other clothing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HEB 1 12 i761 figs-activepassive 0 they will be changed This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "you will change them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 1 12 v5mf figs-metaphor 0 your years do not end Periods of time are used to represent God's eternal existence. Alternate translation: "your life will never end" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 1 13 pqs9 0 General Information: This quotation comes from another Psalm. HEB 1 13 kz68 figs-rquestion 0 But to which of the angels has God said at any time ... feet"? The author uses a question to emphasize that God has never said this to an angel. Alternate translation: "But God has never said to an angel at any time ... feet.'" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HEB 1 13 s6k7 translate-symaction 0 Sit at my right hand To sit at the "right hand of God" is a symbolic action of receiving great honor and authority from God. Alternate translation: "Sit in the place of honor beside me" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]]) HEB 1 13 ulp5 figs-metaphor 0 until I make your enemies a stool for your feet Christ's enemies are spoken of as if they will become an object on which a king rests his feet. This image represents defeat and dishonor for his enemies. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 1 14 fk5v figs-rquestion 0 Are not all angels spirits ... inherit salvation? The author uses this question to remind the readers that angels are not as powerful as Christ, but they have a different role. Alternate translation: "All angels are spirits who ... inherit salvation." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HEB 1 14 v541 figs-metaphor 0 for those who will inherit salvation Receiving what God has promised believers is spoken of as if it were inheriting property and wealth from a family member. Alternate translation: "for those whom God will save" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 2 intro s2gd 0 # Hebrews 02 General Notes
#### Structure and formatting

This chapter is about how Jesus is better than Moses, the greatest Israelite.

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 2:6-8, 12-13, which are words from the Old Testament.

#### Special concepts in this chapter

##### Brothers

The author probably uses the term "brothers" to refer to Christians who grew up as Jews.

* __[Hebrews 02:01 Notes](./01.md)__

__[<<](../01/intro.md) | [>>](../03/intro.md)__
HEB 2 1 x7px 0 Connecting Statement: This is the first of five urgent warnings the author gives. HEB 2 1 c72f figs-inclusive 0 we must Here "we" refers to the author and includes his audience. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]]) HEB 2 1 ayd1 figs-metaphor 0 so that we do not drift away from it Possible meanings for this metaphor are 1) people who stop believing in God's word are spoken of as if they were drifting away, like a boat drifts from its position in the water. Alternate translation: "so that we do not stop believing it" or 2) people who stop obeying God's words are spoken of as if they were drifting away, like a boat drifts from its position in the water. Alternate translation: "so that we do not stop obeying it" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 2 2 j4fa figs-explicit 0 For if the message that was spoken through the angels The Jews believed that God spoke his law to Moses through angels. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "For if the message that God spoke through the angels" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 2 2 k5kb 0 For if the message The author is certain that these things are true. Alternate translation: "Because the message" HEB 2 2 u52i figs-metonymy 0 every trespass and disobedience receives just punishment Here "trespass" and "disobedience" stand for the people who are guilty of these sins. Alternate translation: "every person who sins and disobeys will receive just punishment" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 2 2 y2y7 figs-doublet 0 trespass and disobedience These two words mean basically the same thing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 2 3 fv4q figs-rquestion 0 how then can we escape if we ignore so great a salvation? The author uses a question to emphasize that the people will certainly receive punishment if they refuse God's salvation through Christ. Alternate translation: "then God will certainly punish us if we do not pay attention to his message about how God will save us!" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HEB 2 3 i2zv 0 ignore "pay no attention to" or "consider unimportant" HEB 2 3 gm6v figs-activepassive 0 This is salvation that was first announced by the Lord and confirmed to us by those who heard it This can be stated in active form. The abstract noun "salvation" can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "The Lord himself first announced the message about how God will save us and then those who heard the message confirmed it to us" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 2 4 m2p8 0 according to his will "in just the way he wanted to do it" HEB 2 5 jh56 0 General Information: The quotation here is from the book of Psalms in the Old Testament. It continues on through the next section. HEB 2 5 v7qf 0 Connecting Statement: The writer reminds these Hebrew believers that the earth will one day be under the rule of the Lord Jesus. HEB 2 5 i3bh 0 For it was not to the angels that God subjected "For God did not make the angels rulers over" HEB 2 5 rqr9 figs-metonymy 0 the world to come Here "world" refers to the people who live there. And "to come" means that this is the world in the next age after Christ returns. Alternate translation: "the people who will live in the new world" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 2 6 df5a figs-rquestion 0 What is man, that you are mindful of him? This rhetorical question emphasizes the insignificance of humans and expresses surprise that God would pay attention to them. Alternate translation: "Humans are insignificant, and yet you are mindful of them!" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HEB 2 6 wkd9 figs-idiom 0 Or a son of man, that you care for him? The idiom "son of man" refers to human beings. This rhetorical question means basically the same thing as the first question. It expresses surprise that God would care for humans, who are insignificant. Alternate translation: "Human beings are of little importance, and yet you care for them!" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HEB 2 6 e47v figs-ellipsis 0 Or a son of man The verb may be supplied from the previous question. Alternate translation: "Or what is a son of man" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]]) HEB 2 7 ka5a figs-metaphor 0 a little lower than the angels The author speaks of people being less important than angels as if the people are standing in a position that is lower than the angels' position. Alternate translation: "less important than the angels" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 2 7 tjn6 figs-genericnoun 0 made man ... crowned him Here, these phrases do not refer to a specific person but to humans in general, including both males and females. Alternate translation: "made humans ... crowned them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) HEB 2 7 s85x figs-metaphor 0 you crowned him with glory and honor The gifts of glory and honor are spoken of as if they were a wreath of leaves placed on the head of a victorious athlete. Alternate translation: "you have given them great glory and honor" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 2 8 ac9f figs-genericnoun 0 his feet ... to him Here, these phrases do not refer to a specific person but to humans in general, including both males and females. Alternate translation: "their feet ... to them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) HEB 2 8 k5j2 figs-metaphor 0 You put everything in subjection under his feet The author speaks of humans having control over everything as if they have stepped on everything with their feet. Alternate translation: "You have given them control over everything" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 2 8 rf44 figs-doublenegatives 0 He did not leave anything not subjected to him This double negative means that all things will be subject to Christ. Alternate translation: "God made everything subject to them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]]) HEB 2 8 xy7c 0 we do not yet see everything subjected to him "we know that humans are not in control of everything yet" HEB 2 9 ijd1 0 Connecting Statement: The writer reminds these Hebrew believers that Christ became lower than the angels when he came to earth to suffer death for forgiveness of sins, and that he became a merciful high priest to believers. HEB 2 9 gi12 0 we see him "we know there is one" HEB 2 9 ma4j figs-activepassive 0 who was made This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "whom God made" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 2 9 i4fc 0 lower than the angels ... crowned with glory and honor See how you translated these words in [Hebrews 2:7](../02/07.md). HEB 2 9 bil4 figs-metaphor 0 he might taste death The experience of death is spoken of as if it were food that people can taste. Alternate translation: "he might experience death" or "he might die" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 2 10 r899 figs-metaphor 0 bring many sons to glory The gift of glory is spoken of here as if it were a place to which people could be brought. Alternate translation: "save many sons" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 2 10 l95y figs-gendernotations 0 many sons Here this refers to believers in Christ, including males and females. Alternate translation: "many believers" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) HEB 2 10 sw9t figs-metaphor 0 the leader of their salvation Possible meanings are 1) this is a metaphor in which the writer speaks of salvation as if it were a destination and of Jesus as the person who goes before the people on the road and leads them to salvation. Alternate translation: "the one who leads people to salvation" or 2) the word translated here as "leader" can mean "founder" and the author speaks of Jesus as the one who establishes salvation, or makes it possible for God to save people. Alternate translation: "the one who makes their salvation possible" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 2 10 l321 figs-metaphor 0 complete Becoming mature and completely trained is spoken of as if a person were made complete, perhaps complete in all his body parts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 2 11 jy9p 0 General Information: This prophetic quotation comes from a Psalm of King David. HEB 2 11 ky9v 0 the one who sanctifies "the one who makes others holy" or "the one who makes others pure from sin" HEB 2 11 jzw3 figs-activepassive 0 those who are sanctified This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "those whom he makes holy" or "those whom he makes pure from sin" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 2 11 bj7i figs-explicit 0 have one source Who that source is can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "have one source, God himself" or "have the same Father" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 2 11 ul23 0 he is not ashamed "Jesus is not ashamed" HEB 2 11 k1q5 figs-doublenegatives 0 is not ashamed to call them brothers This double negative means that he will claim them as his brothers. Alternate translation: "is pleased to call them his brothers" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]]) HEB 2 11 a8h9 figs-gendernotations 0 brothers Here this refers to all who have believed in Jesus, including both men and women. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) HEB 2 12 e88p figs-metonymy 0 I will proclaim your name to my brothers Here "name" refers to the person's reputation and what they have done. Alternate translation: "I will proclaim to my brothers the great things you have done" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 2 12 tn8n 0 from inside the assembly "when believers come together to worship God" HEB 2 13 dx1q 0 General Information: The prophet Isaiah wrote these quotations. HEB 2 13 s1fp 0 And again, "And a prophet wrote in another scripture passage what Christ said about God:" HEB 2 13 xap9 figs-metaphor 0 the children This speaks about those who believe in Christ as if they were children. Alternate translation: "those who are like my children" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 2 14 qj3d figs-metaphor 0 the children This speaks about those who believe in Christ as if they were children. Alternate translation: "those who are like my children" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 2 14 ndv2 figs-idiom 0 share in flesh and blood The phrase "flesh and blood" refers to people's human nature. Alternate translation: "are all human beings" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 2 14 fy7a 0 he likewise shared in the same "Jesus in the same way shared in flesh and blood" or "Jesus became human in the same way they did" HEB 2 14 p878 figs-abstractnouns 0 through death Here "death" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "by dying" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 2 14 ij54 figs-abstractnouns 0 has the power of death Here "death" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "has the power to cause people to die" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 2 15 w3cr figs-metaphor 0 This was so that he would free all those who through fear of death lived all their lives in slavery The fear of death is spoken of as if it were slavery. Taking away someone's fear is spoken of as it were freeing that person from slavery. Alternate translation: "This was so he might free all people. For we lived like slaves because we were afraid of dying" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 2 16 d4cc figs-metaphor 0 the seed of Abraham Descendants of Abraham are spoken of as if they were his seed. Alternate translation: "the descendants of Abraham" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 2 17 agw2 0 it was necessary for him "it was necessary for Jesus" HEB 2 17 v3pw 0 like his brothers Here "brothers" refers to people in general. Alternate translation: "like human beings" HEB 2 17 u6ch 0 he would bring about the pardon of the people's sins Christ's death on the cross means that God can forgive sins. Alternate translation: "he would make it possible for God to forgive people's sins" HEB 2 18 xde4 figs-activepassive 0 was tempted This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Satan tempted him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 2 18 a3a6 figs-activepassive 0 who are tempted This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "whom Satan is tempting" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 3 intro mu26 0 # Hebrews 03 General Notes
#### Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 3:7-11,15, which are words from the Old Testament.

#### Special concepts in this chapter

##### Brothers

The author probably uses the term "brothers" to refer to Christians who grew up as Jews.

#### Important figures of speech in this chapter

##### Harden your hearts

A person who hardens his heart is a person who will not listen to or obey God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

##### Rhetorical questions

The author uses rhetorical questions as a way of warning his readers. Both he and the readers know the answers to the questions, and the writer knows that as the readers think about the answers to the questions, they will realize that they need to listen to God and obey him.
HEB 3 1 m1cv 0 Connecting Statement: This second warning is longer and more detailed and includes chapters 3 and 4. The writer begins by showing that Christ is better than his servant Moses. HEB 3 1 tp7e figs-metaphor 0 holy brothers Here "brothers" refer to fellow Christians, including both men and women. Alternate translation: "holy brothers and sisters" or "my holy fellow believers" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) HEB 3 1 af15 figs-metonymy 0 you share in a heavenly calling Here "heavenly" represents God. Alternate translation: "God has called us together" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 3 1 zma3 0 the apostle and high priest Here the word "apostle" means someone who has been sent. In this passage, it does not refer to any of the twelve apostles. Alternate translation: "the one whom God sent and is the high priest" HEB 3 1 mnd4 figs-abstractnouns 0 of our confession This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "confession" is expressed as the verb "confess." Alternate translation: "whom we confess" or "in whom we believe" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 3 2 eqp7 figs-metaphor 0 in God's house The Hebrew people to whom God revealed himself are spoken of as if they were a literal house. Alternate translation: "to all of God's people" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 3 3 py5n figs-activepassive 0 Jesus has been considered This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God has considered Jesus" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 3 4 f8n8 figs-metaphor 0 the one who built everything God's acts of creating the world are spoken of as if he had built a house. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 3 4 wvw1 figs-activepassive 0 every house is built by someone This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "every house has someone who built it" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 3 5 d57q figs-metaphor 0 in God's entire house The Hebrew people to whom God revealed himself are spoken of as if they were a literal house. See how you translated this in [Hebrews 3:2](../03/02.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 3 5 m4xr figs-metonymy 0 bearing witness about the things This phrase probably refers to all of Moses' work. Alternate translation: "Moses' life and work pointed to the things" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 3 5 gt8c figs-activepassive 0 were to be spoken of in the future This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Jesus would say in the future" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 3 6 dgt5 guidelines-sonofgodprinciples 0 Son This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) HEB 3 6 djm7 figs-metaphor 0 in charge of God's house This speaks about God's people as if they were a literal house. Alternate translation: "who rules over God's people" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 3 6 ly4x figs-metaphor 0 We are his house This speaks of God's people as if they are a literal house. Alternate translation: "We are God's people" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 3 6 kp9y figs-abstractnouns 0 if we hold fast to our courage and the hope of which we boast Here "courage" and "hope" are abstract and can be stated as verbs. Alternate translation: "if we continue to be courageous and joyfully expect God to do what he has promised" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 3 7 c4sl 0 General Information: This quotation comes from the Old Testament in the book of Psalms. HEB 3 7 z2uk 0 Connecting Statement: The warning here is a reminder that the Israelites' unbelief kept almost all of them from entering into the land that God had promised them. HEB 3 7 u66q figs-metonymy 0 if you hear his voice God's "voice" represents him speaking. Alternate translation: "when you hear God speak" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 3 8 gl2k figs-metonymy 0 do not harden your hearts Here "hearts" is a metonym for a person's mind. The phrase "harden your hearts" is a metaphor for being stubborn. Alternate translation: "do not be stubborn" or "do not refuse to listen" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 3 8 lik3 figs-abstractnouns 0 as in the rebellion, in the time of testing in the wilderness Here "rebellion" and "testing" can be stated as verbs. Alternate translation: "as when your ancestors rebelled against God and tested him in the wilderness" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 3 9 e6n7 0 General Information: This quotation is from the Psalms. HEB 3 9 i3wb figs-you 0 your ancestors Here "your" is plural and refers to the people of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]]) HEB 3 9 q7c2 0 by testing me Here "me" refers to God. HEB 3 9 we42 translate-numbers 0 forty years "40 years" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]]) HEB 3 10 upb8 0 I was displeased "I was angry" or "I was greatly unhappy" HEB 3 10 kh4v figs-metaphor 0 They have always gone astray in their hearts Here "gone astray in their hearts" is a metaphor for not being loyal to God. Here "hearts" is a metonym for minds or desires. Alternate translation: "They have always rejected me" or "They have always refused to obey me" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 3 10 l5t7 figs-metaphor 0 They have not known my ways This speaks of a manner of conducting one's life as if it were a way or a path. Alternate translation: "They have not understood how I want them to conduct their lives" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 3 11 tz3l figs-metaphor 0 They will never enter my rest The peace and security provided by God are spoken of as if they were rest that he can give, and as if they were a place to which people could go. Alternate translation: "They will never enter the place of rest" or "I will never allow them to experience my blessings of rest" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 3 12 gv84 figs-metaphor 0 brothers Here this refers to fellow Christians including males and females. Alternate translation: "brothers and sisters" or "fellow believers" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) HEB 3 12 lma5 figs-metonymy 0 there will not be anyone with an evil heart of unbelief, a heart that turns away from the living God Here "heart" is a metonym that represents a person's mind or will. Refusing to believe and obey God is spoken of as if the heart did not believe and it physically turned away from God. Alternate translation: "there will not be any of you who refuse to believe the truth and who stop obeying the living God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 3 12 kjm7 0 the living God "the true God who is really alive" HEB 3 13 d3k2 0 as long as it is called "today," "while there is still opportunity," HEB 3 13 m1e7 figs-activepassive 0 no one among you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the deceitfulness of sin will not harden any of you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 3 13 b198 figs-abstractnouns 0 no one among you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin Being stubborn is spoken of as being hard or having a hard heart. The hardness is a result of being deceived by sin. This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "deceitfulness" is expressed as the verb "deceive." Alternate translation: "no one among you will be deceived by sin and become stubborn" or "you do not sin, deceiving yourselves so that you become stubborn" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 3 14 znu5 0 General Information: This continues the quotation from the same psalm that was also quoted in [Hebrews 3:7](../03/07.md). HEB 3 14 f52j figs-inclusive 0 For we have become Here "we" refers to both the writer and the readers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]]) HEB 3 14 e753 0 if we firmly hold to our confidence in him "if we continue to confidently trust in him" HEB 3 14 j3aq 0 from the beginning "from when we first begin to believe in him" HEB 3 14 l9en figs-euphemism 0 to the end This is a polite way of referring to when a person dies. Alternate translation: "until we die" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]]) HEB 3 15 bym1 figs-activepassive 0 it has been said This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the writer wrote" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 3 15 wa11 figs-metonymy 0 if you hear his voice God's "voice" represents him speaking. See how you translated this in [Hebrews 3:7](../03/07.md). Alternate translation: "when you hear God speak" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 3 15 j8dh figs-abstractnouns 0 as in the rebellion Here "rebellion" can be stated as a verb. See how you translated this in [Hebrews 3:8](../03/08.md). Alternate translation: "as when your ancestors rebelled against God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 3 16 b4jy figs-inclusive 0 General Information: The word "they" refers to the disobedient Israelites, and "we" refers to the author and readers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]]) HEB 3 16 pwl2 figs-rquestion 0 Who was it who heard God and rebelled? Was it not all those who came out of Egypt through Moses? The author uses questions to teach his readers. These two questions can be joined as one statement, if needed. Alternate translation: "All those who came out of Egypt with Moses heard God, yet they still rebelled." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HEB 3 17 swy4 figs-rquestion 0 With whom was he angry for forty years? Was it not with those who sinned, whose dead bodies fell in the wilderness? The author uses questions to teach his readers. These two questions can be joined as one statement, if needed. Alternate translation: "For forty years, God was angry with those who sinned, and he let them die in the wilderness." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HEB 3 17 aha2 translate-numbers 0 forty years "40 years" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]]) HEB 3 18 l1gc figs-rquestion 0 To whom did he swear that they would not enter his rest, if it was not to those who disobeyed him? The author uses this question to teach his readers. Alternate translation: "And it was to those who disobeyed that he swore they would not enter his rest." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HEB 3 18 q16u figs-metaphor 0 they would not enter his rest The peace and security provided by God are spoken of as if they were rest that he can give, and as if they were a place to which people could go. Alternate translation: "they would not enter the place of rest" or "they would not experience his blessings of rest" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 3 19 x18z figs-abstractnouns 0 because of unbelief The abstract noun "unbelief" can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "because they did not believe him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 4 intro u72n 0 # Hebrews 04 General Notes
#### Structure and formatting

This chapter tells why Jesus is the greatest high priest.

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 4:3-4, 7, which are words from the Old Testament.

#### Special concepts in this chapter

##### God's rest

The word "rest" seems to refer to at least two things in this chapter. It refers to a place or time when God will allow his people to rest from their work ([Hebrews 4:3](../../heb/04/03.md)), and it refers to God resting on the seventh day ([Hebrews 4:4](../../heb/04/04.md)).
HEB 4 1 n98m 0 Connecting Statement: Chapter 4 continues the warning to believers starting in [Hebrews 3:7](../03/07.md). God, through the writer, gives believers a rest of which God's rest in the creation of the world is a picture. HEB 4 1 ay25 0 Therefore "Because what I have just said is true" or "Since God will certainly punish those who do not obey" HEB 4 1 zta2 figs-metaphor 0 none of you might seem to have failed to reach the promise left behind for you to enter God's rest God's promise is spoken of as if it were a gift that God left behind when he visited the people. Alternate translation: "none of you fail to enter into God's rest, which he promised to us" or "God will allow you all to enter into his rest as he promised us" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 4 1 ev85 figs-metaphor 0 to enter God's rest The peace and security provided by God are spoken of as if they were rest that he can give, and as if they were a place to which people could go. Alternate translation: "to enter the place of rest" or "to experience God's blessings of rest" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 4 2 m74h figs-activepassive 0 For we were told the good news just as they were This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "For we heard the good news just as they did" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 4 2 znk9 0 as they were Here "they" refers to the Hebrews' ancestors who were alive during the time of Moses. HEB 4 2 zza4 figs-doublenegatives 0 But that message did not benefit those who did not unite in faith with those who obeyed "But that message did not benefit those who did not join with the people who believed and obeyed." The author is talking about two groups of people, those who received God's covenant with faith, and those who heard it but did not believe. This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "But that message benefited only those who believed and obeyed it" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]]) HEB 4 3 v4q4 0 General Information: Here the first quotation, "As I swore ... rest," is from a psalm. The second quotation, "God rested on ... deeds," is from Moses' writings. The third quotation, "They will never enter ... rest," is again from the same psalm. HEB 4 3 u5yh 0 we who have believed "we who believe" HEB 4 3 w6t4 figs-metaphor 0 we who have believed enter that rest The peace and security provided by God are spoken of as if they were rest that he can give, and as if they were a place to which people could go. Alternate translation: "we who have believed will enter the place of rest" or "we who have believed will experience God's blessings of rest" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 4 3 x2kq 0 just as he said "just as God said" HEB 4 3 qfs8 0 As I swore in my wrath "As I swore when I was very angry" HEB 4 3 k1ld figs-metaphor 0 They will never enter my rest The peace and security provided by God are spoken of as if they were rest that he can give, and as if they were a place to which people could go. Alternate translation: "They will never enter the place of rest" or "They will never experience my blessings of rest" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 4 3 x8zv figs-activepassive 0 his works were finished This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "he finished creating" or "he finished his works of creation" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 4 3 vym3 figs-metaphor 0 from the foundation of the world The author speaks of the world as if it were a building set on a foundation. Alternate translation: "at the beginning of the world" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 4 4 hbm5 translate-ordinal 0 the seventh day This is the ordinal number for "seven." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]]) HEB 4 6 zq16 figs-activepassive 0 it still remains that some will enter his rest The peace and security provided by God are spoken of as if they were rest that he can give, and as if they were a place to which people could go. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God still allows some people to enter his place of rest" or "God still allows some people to experience his blessings of rest" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 4 7 y2tm 0 General Information: Here we find out that this quotation from the Psalms was written by David ([Hebrews 3:7-8](../03/07.md)). HEB 4 7 bp6u figs-metaphor 0 if you hear his voice God's commands to Israel are spoken of as if he had given them in an audible voice. See how you translated this in [Hebrews 3:7](../03/07.md). Alternate translation: "if you hear God speaking" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 4 7 lsp6 figs-metonymy 0 do not harden your hearts Here "hearts" is a metonym for a person's mind. The phrase "harden your hearts" is a metaphor for being stubborn. See how you translated this in [Hebrews 3:8](../03/08.md). Alternate translation: "do not be stubborn" or "do not refuse to listen" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 4 8 r56z 0 Connecting Statement: Here the writer warns believers not to disobey but to enter into the rest God offers. He reminds them that God's word will convict them and that they can come in prayer with the confidence that God will help them. HEB 4 8 mdq9 figs-metaphor 0 if Joshua had given them rest The peace and security provided by God are spoken of as if they were rest that Joshua could give. Alternate translation: "if Joshua had brought the Israelites to the place where God would give them rest" or "if the Israelites during the time of Joshua had experienced God's blessings of rest" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 4 9 vhx9 figs-activepassive 0 there is still a Sabbath rest reserved for God's people This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "there is still a Sabbath rest that God has reserved for his people" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 4 9 qe6x figs-metaphor 0 a Sabbath rest Eternal peace and security are spoken of as if they were the Sabbath day, the Jewish day of worship and rest from working. Alternate translation: "an eternal rest" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 4 10 ej9y figs-metaphor 0 he who enters into God's rest The peace and security provided by God are spoken of as if they are a place to enter. Alternate translation: "the person who enters into God's place of rest" or "the person who experiences God's blessings of rest" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 4 11 bmg5 figs-metaphor 0 let us be eager to enter that rest The peace and security provided by God are spoken of as if they were a place to enter. Alternate translation: "we should also do everything we can to rest with God where he is" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 4 11 rtj7 figs-metaphor 0 will fall into the kind of disobedience that they did Disobedience is spoken of as if it were a hole that a person could physically fall into by accident. This passage can be reworded so that the abstract noun "disobedience" is expressed as the verb "disobey." Alternate translation: "will disobey in the same way as they did" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 4 11 l39t 0 that they did Here "they" refers to the Hebrews' ancestors during the time of Moses. HEB 4 12 h5d2 0 the word of God is living Here "word of God" refers to anything that God has communicated to humanity, whether through speech or through written messages. Alternate translation: "the words of God are living" HEB 4 12 j9qy figs-personification 0 living and active This speaks about God's word as if it were alive. It means when God speaks, it is powerful and effective. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HEB 4 12 g4tc figs-metaphor 0 sharper than any two-edged sword A two-edged sword can easily cut through a person's flesh. God's word is very effective in showing what is in a person's heart and thoughts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 4 12 lv6y 0 two-edged sword a sword with a blade that is sharp on both edges HEB 4 12 e7kv figs-metaphor 0 It pierces even to the dividing of soul and spirit, of joints and marrow This continues speaking about God's word as if it were a sword. Here the sword is so sharp that it can cut through and divide parts of the human that are very difficult or even impossible to divide. This means that there is nothing inside us that we can hide from God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 4 12 m6f2 0 soul and spirit These are two different but closely related nonphysical parts of a human. The "soul" is what causes a person to be alive. The "spirit" is the part of a person that causes him to be able to know and believe in God. HEB 4 12 sc3m 0 joints and marrow The "joint" is what holds two bones together. The "marrow" is the center part of the bone. HEB 4 12 n6n5 figs-personification 0 is able to discern This speaks about God's word as if it were a person who could know something. Alternate translation: "exposes" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HEB 4 12 xdu4 figs-metonymy 0 the thoughts and intentions of the heart "Heart" here is a metonym for "inner self." Alternate translation: "what a person is thinking and intends to do" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 4 13 nx6n figs-activepassive 0 Nothing created is hidden before God This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Nothing that God has created can hide from him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 4 13 f3h1 figs-metaphor 0 everything is bare and open This speaks about all things as if they were a person standing bare, or a box that is open. Alternate translation: "everything is completely exposed" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 4 13 yk64 figs-doublet 0 bare and open These two words mean basically the same thing and emphasize that nothing is hidden from God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 4 13 i9hh figs-metaphor 0 to the eyes of the one to whom we must give account God is spoken of as if he had eyes. Alternate translation: "to God, who will judge how we have lived" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 4 14 a51p 0 who has passed through the heavens "who has entered where God is" HEB 4 14 ph6z guidelines-sonofgodprinciples 0 Son of God This is an important title for Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) HEB 4 14 vt4v figs-metaphor 0 let us firmly hold to our beliefs Belief and trust are spoken of as if they were objects that a person could grasp firmly. Alternate translation: "let us continue to believe confidently in him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 4 15 i2fw figs-doublenegatives 0 we do not have a high priest who cannot feel sympathy ... Instead, we have This double negative means that, in fact, Jesus does feel sympathy with people. Alternate translation: "we have a high priest who can feel sympathy ... Indeed, we have" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]]) HEB 4 15 d26h figs-activepassive 0 who has in all ways been tempted as we are This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "who has endured temptation in every way that we have" or "whom the devil has tempted in every way that he tempts us" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 4 15 fve3 0 he is without sin "he did not sin" HEB 4 16 aj1p figs-metonymy 0 to the throne of grace "to God's throne, where there is grace." Here "throne" refers to God ruling as king. Alternate translation: "to where our gracious God is sitting on his throne" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 4 16 py6d figs-metaphor 0 we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need Here "mercy" and "grace" are spoken of as if they were objects that can be given or can be found. Alternate translation: "God may be merciful and gracious and help us in time of need" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 5 intro b67j 0 # Hebrews 05 General Notes
#### Structure and formatting

This chapter is a continuation of the teaching of the previous chapter.

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 5:5-6.

#### Special concepts in this chapter

##### High priest

Only a high priest could offer sacrifices so that God could forgive sins, so Jesus had to be a high priest. The law of Moses commanded that the high priest be from the tribe of Levi, but Jesus was from the tribe of Judah. God made him a priest like the priest Melchizedek, who lived at the time of Abraham, before there was a tribe of Levi.

#### Important figures of speech in this chapter

##### Milk and solid food

The writer speaks of Christians who are only able to understand simple things about Jesus as if they were babies, who drink only milk and cannot eat solid food. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
HEB 5 1 dn18 0 Connecting Statement: The writer describes the sinfulness of the Old Testament priests, then he shows that Christ has a better kind of priesthood, not based on Aaron's priesthood but on the priesthood of Melchizedek. HEB 5 1 whq1 figs-activepassive 0 chosen from among people This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "whom God chooses from among the people" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 5 1 ndz7 figs-activepassive 0 is appointed This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God appoints" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 5 1 mzd9 0 to act on the behalf of people "to represent the people" HEB 5 2 gt9j figs-activepassive 0 those ... who have been deceived This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "those ... whom others have deceived" or "those ... who believe what is false" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 5 2 f781 0 who have been deceived "who believe false things and so behave badly" HEB 5 2 ny8u figs-metaphor 0 is subject to weakness The high priest's own weakness is spoken of as if it were a another person who rules over him. Alternate translation: "is spiritually weak" or "is weak against sin" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 5 2 ihs9 0 weakness the desire to sin HEB 5 3 q5xi figs-activepassive 0 he also is required This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God also requires him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 5 4 c45n 0 General Information: This quotation is from the Psalms in the Old Testament. HEB 5 4 c336 figs-metaphor 0 takes this honor Honor is spoken of as if it were an object that a person could grasp in his hands. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 5 4 n2e1 figs-metonymy 0 takes this honor The "honor" or praise and respect that people gave to the high priest stand for his task. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 5 4 p6hc figs-activepassive 0 he is called by God, just as Aaron was This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God called him, just as he called Aaron" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 5 5 pr3f 0 the one speaking to him said "God said to him" HEB 5 5 i694 figs-parallelism 0 You are my Son; today I have become your Father These two phrases mean essentially the same thing. See how you translated this in [Hebrews 1:5](../01/05.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]) HEB 5 5 mfa8 guidelines-sonofgodprinciples 0 Son ... Father These are important titles that describe the relationship between Jesus and God the Father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) HEB 5 6 bce6 0 General Information: This prophecy is from a Psalm of David. HEB 5 6 ds6v figs-ellipsis 0 he also says To whom God is speaking can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "he also says to Christ" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]]) HEB 5 6 k5uw 0 in another place "in another place in the scriptures" HEB 5 6 ede5 0 after the manner of Melchizedek This means that Christ as a priest has things in common with Melchizedek as a priest. Alternate translation: "in the same way that Melchizedek was a priest" HEB 5 7 mv2c figs-metonymy 0 During the days of his flesh Here "the days" stands for a period of time. And, "flesh" stand for Jesus's earthly life. Alternate translation: "While he lived on earth" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 5 7 iel9 figs-doublet 0 prayers and requests Both of these words mean basically the same thing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 5 7 p6zm 0 the one able to save him from death Possible meanings are 1) God was able to save Christ so that he would not die. Alternate translation: 'to save him from dying" or 2) God was able to save Christ after Christ's death by making him alive again. If possible, translate this in a way that allows both interpretations. HEB 5 7 e75a figs-activepassive 0 he was heard This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God heard him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 5 8 mk8z guidelines-sonofgodprinciples 0 a son This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) HEB 5 9 z2bv 0 Connecting Statement: In verse 11 the writer begins his third warning. He warns these believers that they are still not mature and encourages them to learn God's word so they can understand right from wrong. HEB 5 9 i29c figs-activepassive 0 He was made perfect This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God made him perfect" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 5 9 n5qt 0 made perfect Here this means being made mature, able to honor God in all aspects of life. HEB 5 9 p9ug figs-abstractnouns 0 became, for everyone who obeys him, the cause of eternal salvation The abstract noun "salvation" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "now he saves all who obey him and causes them to live forever" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 5 10 b9su figs-activepassive 0 He was designated by God This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God designated him" or "God appointed him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 5 10 hd47 0 after the manner of Melchizedek This means that Christ as a priest has things in common with Melchizedek as a priest. Alternate translation: "to be the sort of high priest that Melchizedek was" HEB 5 11 cm78 figs-pronouns 0 We have much to say Even though the author uses the plural pronoun "we," he is most likely referring only to himself. Alternate translation: "I have much to say" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]]) HEB 5 11 r2u2 figs-metaphor 0 you have become dull in hearing The ability to understand and obey is spoken of as if it were the ability to listen. And the ability to listen is spoken of as if it were a metal tool that becomes dull with use. Alternate translation: "you have trouble understanding it" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 5 12 lw1a 0 basic principles Here "principles" means a guideline or standard for making decisions. Alternate translation: "basic truths" HEB 5 12 wy2h figs-metaphor 0 You need milk Teaching about God that is easy to understand is spoken of as if it were milk, the only food that infants can take. Alternate translation: "You have become like babies and can drink only milk" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 5 12 yk1q figs-metaphor 0 milk, not solid food Teaching about God that is difficult to understand is spoken of as if it were solid food, suitable for adults. Alternate translation: "milk instead of solid food that adults can eat" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 5 13 nhx3 figs-metonymy 0 takes milk Here "takes" stands for "drinks." Alternate translation: "drinks milk" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 5 13 vl7k figs-metaphor 0 because he is still a little child Spiritual maturity is compared with the kind of food that a growing child eats. Solid food is not for a tiny baby, and that is a figure describing a young Christian who only learns simple truths; but later, more solid food is given to the little child, just as when a person matures he can learn about matters that are more difficult. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 5 14 e3yh figs-metonymy 0 who because of their maturity have their understanding trained for distinguishing good from evil People trained to understand something are spoken of as if their ability to understand had been trained. Alternate translation: "who are mature and can distinguish between good and evil" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 6 intro nz5i 0 # Hebrews 06 General Notes
#### Special concepts in this chapter

##### Abrahamic Covenant

In the covenant that God made with Abraham, God promised to make Abraham's descendants into a great nation. He also promised to protect Abraham's descendants and to give them land of their own. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])
HEB 6 1 f1nk 0 Connecting Statement: The writer continues with what immature Hebrew believers need to do to become mature Christians. He reminds them of the foundational teachings. HEB 6 1 i4xr figs-metaphor 0 let us leave the beginning of the message of Christ and move forward to maturity This speaks about the basic teachings as if they were the beginning of a journey and the mature teachings as if they were the end of a journey. Alternate translation: "let us stop only discussing what we first learned and start understanding more mature teachings as well" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 1 thw8 figs-metaphor 0 Let us not lay again the foundation ... of faith in God Basic teachings are spoken of as if they were a building whose construction begins by laying a foundation. Alternate translation: "Let us not repeat the basic teachings ... of faith in God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 1 d5q3 figs-metaphor 0 dead works Sinful deeds are spoken of as if they belonged to the world of the dead. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 2 s1cv figs-metaphor 0 nor the foundation of teaching ... eternal judgment Basic teachings are spoken of as if they were a building whose construction begins by laying a foundation. Alternate translation: "nor the basic teachings ... eternal judgment" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 2 xww5 0 laying on of hands This practice was done to set someone apart for special service or position. HEB 6 4 e7px figs-metaphor 0 those who were once enlightened Understanding is spoken of as if it were illumination. Alternate translation: "those who once understood the message about Christ" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 4 l5mc figs-metaphor 0 who tasted the heavenly gift Experiencing salvation is spoken of as if it were tasting food. Alternate translation: "who experienced God's saving power" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 4 d2lp figs-metaphor 0 who were sharers of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit, who comes to believers, is spoken of as if he were an object that people could share. Alternate translation: "who received the Holy Spirit" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 5 vp46 figs-metaphor 0 who tasted God's good word Learning God's message is spoken of as if it were tasting food. Alternate translation: "who learned God's good message" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 5 tw1u figs-metonymy 0 the powers of the age to come This means the power of God when his kingdom is fully present in all the world. In this sense, "the powers" refer to God himself, who holds all power. Alternate translation: "learned how God will work powerfully in the future" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 6 6 l8nx 0 it is impossible to restore them again to repentance "it is impossible to bring them back to repent again" HEB 6 6 dj3g figs-metaphor 0 they crucify the Son of God for themselves again When people turn away from God, it is as though they crucify Jesus again. Alternate translation: "it is like they crucify for themselves the very Son of God again" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 6 y47b guidelines-sonofgodprinciples 0 Son of God This is an important title for Jesus that describes his relationship to God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) HEB 6 7 p4tf figs-personification 0 the land that drinks in the rain Farmland that benefits from much rain is spoken of as if it were a person who drinks in the rainwater. Alternate translation: "the land that absorbs the rain" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HEB 6 7 r32n figs-personification 0 that gives birth to the plants Farmland that produces crops is spoken of as if it gives birth to them. Alternate translation: "that produces plants" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HEB 6 7 da68 figs-personification 0 the land that receives a blessing from God Rain and crops are seen as proof that God has helped the farmland. The farmland is spoken of as if it were a person who could receive God's blessing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HEB 6 7 qq1x 0 a blessing from God Here "blessing" means help from God, not spoken words. HEB 6 8 pp48 figs-metaphor 0 is near to a curse This speaks of "curse" as if it were a place to which a person could draw near. Alternate translation: "is in danger of God cursing it" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 8 a2bk 0 Its end is in burning The farmer will burn everything in the field. HEB 6 9 sb4a figs-pronouns 0 we are convinced Even though the author uses the plural pronoun "we," he is most likely referring only to himself. Alternate translation: "I am convinced" or "I am certain" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]]) HEB 6 9 jt3k 0 about better things concerning you This means they are doing better than those who have rejected God, disobeyed him, and now can no longer repent so that God will forgive them ([Hebrews 6:4-6](./04.md)). Alternate translation: "that you are doing better things than what I have mentioned" HEB 6 9 npu2 figs-abstractnouns 0 things that concern salvation The abstract noun "salvation" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "things that concern God saving you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 6 10 t2hb figs-doublenegatives 0 For God is not so unjust that he would forget This double negative can mean that God in his justice will remember what good things his people have done. Alternate translation: "For God is just and therefore will certainly remember" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]]) HEB 6 10 r9xx figs-metonymy 0 for his name God's "name" is a metonym that stands for God himself. Alternate translation: "for him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 6 11 j7f5 figs-pronouns 0 We greatly desire Even though the author uses the plural pronoun "we," he is most likely referring only to himself. Alternate translation: "I greatly desire" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]]) HEB 6 11 k4si 0 diligence careful, hard work HEB 6 11 xfy1 figs-explicit 0 to the end The implicit meaning can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: "to the end of your lives" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 6 11 i2yc 0 in order to make your hope certain "in order to have complete certainty that you will receive what God has promised you" HEB 6 12 yrh2 0 imitators An "imitator" is someone who copies the behavior of someone else. HEB 6 12 q8ry figs-metaphor 0 inherit the promises Receiving what God has promised believers is spoken of as if it were inheriting property and wealth from a family member. Alternate translation: "receive what God promised them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 14 ymh2 0 He said God said HEB 6 14 n47a figs-metonymy 0 I will greatly increase you Here "increase" stands for give descendants. Alternate translation: "I will give you many descendants" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 6 15 x5zs figs-activepassive 0 what was promised This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "what God promised him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 6 17 rpv9 figs-metaphor 0 to the heirs of the promise The people to whom God has made promises are spoken of as if they were to inherit property and wealth from a family member. Alternate translation: "to those who would receive what he promised" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 17 ug6j 0 the unchangeable quality of his purpose "that his purpose would never change" or "that he would always do what he said he would do" HEB 6 18 gjw3 figs-metaphor 0 we, who have fled for refuge Believers, who trust in God for him to protect them, are spoken of as if they were running to a safe place. Alternate translation: "we, who have trusted him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 18 gk6n figs-metaphor 0 will have a strong encouragement to hold firmly to the hope set before us Trust in God is spoken of as if encouragement were an object that could be presented to a person and that person could hold on to it. Alternate translation: "will continue to trust in God just has he encouraged us to do" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 18 hs84 figs-activepassive 0 set before us This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that God has placed before us" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 6 19 w66k 0 Connecting Statement: Having finished his third warning and encouragement to the believers, the writer of Hebrews continues his comparison of Jesus as priest to Melchizedek as priest. HEB 6 19 ng9i figs-metaphor 0 as a secure and reliable anchor for the soul Just as an anchor keeps a boat from drifting in the water, Jesus keeps us secure in God's presence. Alternate translation: "that causes us to live securely in God's presence" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 19 vdt3 figs-doublet 0 a secure and reliable anchor Here the words "secure" and "reliable" mean basically the same thing and emphasize the complete reliability of the anchor. Alternate translation: "a completely reliable anchor" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 6 19 d223 figs-personification 0 hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain Confidence is spoken of as if it were a person who could go into the most holy place of the temple. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HEB 6 19 aj2m figs-metaphor 0 the inner place This was the most holy place in the temple. It was thought to be the place where God was most intensely present among his people. In this passage, this place stands for heaven and God's throne room. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 6 20 zgj6 0 after the order of Melchizedek This means that Christ as a priest has things in common with Melchizedek as a priest. Alternate translation: "in the same way that Melchizedek was a priest" HEB 7 intro y8j3 0 # Hebrews 07 General Notes
#### Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 7:17, 21, which are words from the Old Testament.

#### Special concepts in this chapter

##### High priest

Only a high priest could offer sacrifices so that God could forgive sins, so Jesus had to be a high priest. The law of Moses commanded that the high priest be from the tribe of Levi, but Jesus was from the tribe of Judah. God made him a priest like the priest Melchizedek, who lived at the time of Abraham, before there was a tribe of Levi.
HEB 7 1 mwy8 0 Connecting Statement: The writer of Hebrews continues his comparison of Jesus as priest to Melchizedek as priest. HEB 7 1 rfc9 translate-names 0 Salem This is the name of a city. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HEB 7 1 rx36 figs-explicit 0 Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings This is refers to when Abraham and his men went and defeated the armies of four kings in order to rescue his nephew, Lot, and his family. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 7 2 q87x 0 It was to him "It was to Melchizedek" HEB 7 2 abh4 0 king of righteousness ... king of peace "righteous king ... peaceful king" HEB 7 3 q4eh 0 He is without father, without mother, without ancestors, with neither beginning of days nor end of life It is possible to think from this passage that Melchizedek was neither born nor did he die. However, it is likely that all the writer means is that the Scriptures provide no information about Melchizedek's ancestry, birth, or death. HEB 7 4 h2bg 0 Connecting Statement: The writer states that the priesthood of Melchizedek is better than Aaron's priesthood and then reminds them that the priesthood of Aaron did not make anything perfect. HEB 7 4 w2gg 0 this man was "Melchizedek was" HEB 7 5 l9zq figs-distinguish 0 The sons of Levi who receive the priesthood The author says this because not all of Levi's sons became priests. Alternate translation: "The descendants of Levi who became priests" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]]) HEB 7 5 hn3k 0 from the people "from the people of Israel" HEB 7 5 ri2y 0 from their brothers Here "brothers" means they are all related to each other through Abraham. Alternate translation: "from their relatives" HEB 7 5 x4za figs-metaphor 0 they, too, have come from Abraham's body This is a way of saying that they were descendants of Abraham. Alternate translation: "they, too, are descendants of Abraham" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 7 6 r2rs 0 whose descent was not traced from them "who was not a descendant of Levi" HEB 7 6 d2hq figs-metaphor 0 the one who had the promises The things that God promised to do for Abraham are spoken of as if they were objects that he could possess. Alternate translation: the one to whom God had spoken his promises" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 7 7 k6pc figs-activepassive 0 the lesser person is blessed by the greater person This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the more important person blesses the less important person" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 7 8 sf79 0 In this case ... in that case These phrases are used to compare the Levite priests with Melchizedek. Your language may have a way to emphasize that the author is making a comparison. HEB 7 8 c9zz figs-metaphor 0 is testified that he lives on It is never explicitly written in scripture that Melchizedek dies. The author of Hebrews speaks of this absence of information about Melchizedek's death in scripture as if it were a positive statement that he is still alive. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "scripture shows that he lives on" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 7 9 v1yu figs-metaphor 0 Levi, who received tithes, also paid tithes through Abraham Since Levi had not been born yet, the author speaks of him as still being in Abraham's body. In this way, the author argues that Levi paid tithes to Melchizedek through Abraham. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 7 10 g26s figs-metaphor 0 Levi was in the body of his ancestor Since Levi had not been born yet, the author speaks of him as still being in Abraham's body. In this way, the author argues that Levi paid tithes to Melchizedek through Abraham. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 7 11 kdb8 0 Now This does not mean "at this moment," but is used to draw attention to the important point that follows. HEB 7 11 wgp5 figs-rquestion 0 what further need would there have been for another priest to arise after the manner of Melchizedek, and not be considered to be after the manner of Aaron? This question emphasizes that it was unexpected that priests come after the order of Melchizedek. Alternate translation: "no one would have needed another priest, one who was like Melchizedek and not like Aaron, to arise." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HEB 7 11 hi4e 0 to arise "to come" or "to appear" HEB 7 11 cc5f 0 after the manner of Melchizedek This means that Christ as a priest has things in common with Melchizedek as a priest. Alternate translation: "in the same way that Melchizedek was a priest" HEB 7 11 kt3a figs-activepassive 0 not be considered to be after the manner of Aaron This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "not be after the manner of Aaron" or "who is not a priest like Aaron" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 7 12 c7f1 figs-activepassive 0 For when the priesthood is changed, the law must also be changed This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "For when God changed the priesthood, he also had to change the law" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 7 13 k9zi 0 For the one This refers to Jesus. HEB 7 13 m9mm figs-activepassive 0 about whom these things are said This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "about whom I am speaking" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 7 14 t3dm 0 Now This does not mean "at this moment," but is used to draw attention to the important point that follows. HEB 7 14 qsk5 0 it is from Judah that our Lord was born The words "our Lord" refer to Jesus. HEB 7 14 ln94 0 from Judah "from the tribe of Judah" HEB 7 15 i17g 0 General Information: This quote comes from a psalm of King David. HEB 7 15 jn1p figs-inclusive 0 What we say is clearer yet "We can understand even more clearly." Here "we" refers to the author and his audience. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]]) HEB 7 15 md9i 0 if another priest arises "if another priest comes" HEB 7 15 z1yl 0 in the likeness of Melchizedek This means that Christ as a priest has things in common with Melchizedek as a priest. Alternate translation: "in the same way that Melchizedek was a priest" HEB 7 16 fr4a 0 It was not based on the law "His becoming priest was not based on the law" HEB 7 16 erq7 figs-metonymy 0 the law of fleshly descent The idea of human descent is spoken of as if it had only to do with the flesh of one's body. Alternate translation: "the law of human descent" or "the law about priests' descendants becoming priests" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 7 17 xmj8 figs-personification 0 For scripture witnesses about him This speaks about scripture as if it were a person who could witness about something. Alternate translation: "For God witnesses about him through the scriptures" or "For this is what was written about him in the scripture" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HEB 7 17 g6zd 0 according to the order of Melchizedek There were two groups of priests. One was made up of the descendants of Levi. The other was made up of Melchizedek and Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: "according to the line of Melchizedek" or "according to the priesthood of Melchizedek" HEB 7 18 d6vn figs-metaphor 0 the former regulation is set aside Here "set aside" is a metaphor for making something invalid. This can be stated in active form. AT "God made the commandment invalid" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 7 19 ia8j figs-personification 0 the law made nothing perfect The law is spoken of as if it were a person who could act. Alternate translation: "no one could become perfect by obeying the law" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HEB 7 19 stc2 figs-activepassive 0 a better hope is introduced This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God has introduced a better hope" or "God has given us reason for a more confident hope (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 7 19 c9tz figs-metaphor 0 through which we come near to God Worshiping God and having his favor are spoken of coming near to him. Alternate translation: "and because of this hope we approach God" or "and because of this hope we worship God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 7 20 f3cd 0 General Information: This quote comes from the same psalm of David as [Hebrews 7:17](../07/17.md)). HEB 7 20 vf69 figs-explicit 0 And it was not without an oath! The word "it" refers to Jesus becoming the eternal priest. It can be stated clearly who made the oath. Alternate translation: "And God did not choose this new priest without swearing an oath!" or "And it was because God swore an oath that the Lord became the new priest!" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]]) HEB 7 22 h462 0 Connecting Statement: The writer then assures these Jewish believers that Christ has the better priesthood because he lives forever and the priests that descended from Aaron all died. HEB 7 22 e23d 0 has given the guarantee of a better covenant "has told us that we can be sure that there will be a better covenant" HEB 7 24 u941 figs-abstractnouns 0 he has a permanent priesthood A priest's work is spoken of as if it were an object that Jesus possesses. This can be worded to avoid the abstract noun. Alternate translation: "he is a priest permanently" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 7 25 a4gg figs-explicit 0 Therefore he You can make explicit what "Therefore" implies. Alternate translation: "Because Christ is our high priest who lives forever, he" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 7 25 b182 0 those who approach God through him "those who come to God because of what Jesus has done" HEB 7 26 cmq1 figs-metaphor 0 has become higher than the heavens "God has raised him up to the highest heavens." The author speaks of possessing more honor and power than anyone else as if it were position that is up above all things. Alternate translation: "God has given him more honor and power than anyone else" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 7 27 b6nv 0 General Information: Here the words "He," "his," and "himself" refer to Christ. HEB 7 28 n693 figs-metonymy 0 the law appoints as high priests men who have weaknesses Here "the law" is a metonym for the men who appointed the high priests according to the law of Moses. The focus is not on the men who did this, but on the fact that they did this according to the law. Alternate translation: "according to the law, men appoint as high priests men who have weaknesses" or "for according to the law, men who have weaknesses are appointed as high priests" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 7 28 u5ny 0 men who have weaknesses "men who are spiritually weak" or "men who are weak against sin" HEB 7 28 yez2 figs-metonymy 0 the word of the oath, which came after the law, appointed a Son The "word of the oath" represents God who made the oath. Alternate translation: "God appointed a Son by his oath, which he made after he gave the law" or "after he had given the law, God swore an oath and appointed his Son" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 7 28 msa4 guidelines-sonofgodprinciples 0 Son This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) HEB 7 28 fkl3 figs-activepassive 0 who has been made perfect This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "who has completely obeyed God and become mature" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 8 intro ks94 0 # Hebrews 08 General Notes
#### Structure and formatting

The author finishes describing how and why Jesus is the most important high priest. Then he begins to speak about how the new covenant is better to the covenant God made with Moses. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 8:8-12, which are words from the Old Testament.

#### Special concepts in this chapter

##### New covenant

The author tells how Jesus has established a new covenant that is better than the covenant that God established with the Israelites. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])
HEB 8 1 nb8q 0 Connecting Statement: The writer, having shown that Christ's priesthood is better than the earthly priesthood, shows that the earthly priesthood was a pattern of heavenly things. Christ has a superior ministry, a superior covenant. HEB 8 1 tw7l 0 Now This does not mean "at this moment," but is used to draw attention to the important point that follows. HEB 8 1 z4dh figs-exclusive 0 we are saying Even though the author uses the plural pronoun "we," he is most likely referring only to himself. Because the writer does not include his readers here, the word "we" is exclusive. Alternate translation: "I am saying" or "I am writing" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]]) HEB 8 1 m2b4 figs-inclusive 0 We have a high priest The author is including the readers here, so the word "we" is inclusive. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]]) HEB 8 1 b8qy translate-symaction 0 sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty To sit at the "right hand of God" is a symbolic action of receiving great honor and authority from God. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Hebrews 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: "sat down at the place of honor and authority beside the throne of the Majesty" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]]) HEB 8 2 lrb7 0 the true tabernacle that the Lord, not a man, set up People built the earthly tabernacle out of animal skins fastened to a wooden framework, and they set it up in the manner of a tent. Here "true tabernacle" means the heavenly tabernacle that God created. HEB 8 3 su9j figs-activepassive 0 For every high priest is appointed This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "For God appoints every priest" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 8 4 p2v6 0 Now This does not mean "at this moment," but is used to draw attention to the important point that follows. HEB 8 4 gfz1 0 according to the law "as God requires in the law" HEB 8 5 t3i8 figs-metaphor 0 They serve a copy and shadow of the heavenly things The words "copy" and "shadow" have similar meanings and are metaphors meaning that something is not the real thing but it is similar to the real thing. These words emphasize that the priesthood and the earthly temple were images of Christ, the true high priest, and the heavenly temple. Alternate translation: "They serve what is a vague image of the heavenly things" or "They serve what is only similar to the heavenly things" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 8 5 k5r1 figs-activepassive 0 It is just as Moses was warned by God when he was This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "It is just as God warned Moses when Moses was" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 8 5 qb7g figs-explicit 0 was about to construct the tabernacle Moses did not construct the tabernacle himself. He ordered the people to construct it. Alternate translation: "was about to command the people to construct the tabernacle" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 8 5 jk6i 0 See that "Make sure that" HEB 8 5 wf1p 0 to the pattern "to the design" HEB 8 5 s9xe figs-activepassive 0 that was shown to you This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that I showed you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 8 5 j3tz figs-explicit 0 on the mountain You can make explicit that "mountain" refers to Mount Sinai. Alternate translation: "on Mount Sinai" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 8 6 qdj6 0 Connecting Statement: This section begins to show that the new covenant is better than the old covenant with Israel and Judah. HEB 8 6 rt2a 0 Christ has received "God has given Christ" HEB 8 6 spy1 0 mediator of a better covenant This means Christ caused a better covenant between God and humans to exist. HEB 8 6 aw58 figs-activepassive 0 covenant, which is based on better promises This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "covenant. It was this covenant that God made based on better promises" or "covenant. God promised better things when he made this covenant" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 8 7 wb9d translate-ordinal 0 first covenant ... second covenant The words "first" and "second" are ordinal numbers. Alternate translation: "old covenant ... new covenant" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]]) HEB 8 7 gig6 0 had been faultless "had been perfect" HEB 8 8 ya4n 0 General Information: In this quotation the prophet Jeremiah foretold of a new covenant that God would make. HEB 8 8 sqb4 0 with the people "with the people of Israel" HEB 8 8 xhp8 0 See "Look" or "Listen" or "Pay attention to what I am about to tell you" HEB 8 8 c6zm figs-metaphor 0 the house of Israel and with the house of Judah The people of Israel and Judah are spoken of as if they were houses. Alternate translation: "the people of Israel and with the people of Judah" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 8 9 dde5 figs-metaphor 0 I took them by their hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt This metaphor represents God's great love and concern. Alternate translation: "I led them out of Egypt like a father leads his young child" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 8 10 fh1c 0 General Information: This is a quotation from the prophet Jeremiah. HEB 8 10 k2ew figs-metaphor 0 the house of Israel The people of Israel are spoken of as if they were a house. Alternate translation: "the people of Israel" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 8 10 q78u 0 after those days "after that time" HEB 8 10 gbw3 figs-metaphor 0 I will put my laws into their minds God's requirements are spoken of as if they were objects that could be placed somewhere. People's ability to think is spoken of as if it were a place. Alternate translation: "I will enable them to understand my laws" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 8 10 e45g figs-metonymy 0 I will also write them on their hearts Here "hearts" is a metonym for a person's inner being. The phrase "write them on their hearts" is a metaphor for enabling people to obey the law. Alternate translation: "I will also put them in their hearts" or "I will enable them to obey my law" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 8 10 hs53 0 I will be their God "I will be the God they worship" HEB 8 10 xgm3 0 they will be my people "they will be the people for whom I care" HEB 8 11 lsq6 0 General Information: This continues the quotation from the prophet Jeremiah. HEB 8 11 jl1h figs-quotations 0 They will not teach each one his neighbor and each one his brother, saying, 'Know the Lord.' This direct quotation can be stated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: "They will not need to teach their neighbors or brothers to know me" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]]) HEB 8 11 wne2 figs-doublet 0 neighbor ... brother Both of these refer to fellow Israelites. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 8 11 q5ki figs-metonymy 0 Know the Lord ... will all know me "Know" here stands for acknowledge. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 8 12 cu1b figs-metonymy 0 toward their evil deeds This stands for the people who committed these evil deeds. Alternate translation: "to those who did evil deeds" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 8 12 a1xr figs-metonymy 0 their sins I will not remember any longer Here "remember" stands for "think about." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 9 intro p8vy 0 # Hebrews 09 General Notes
#### Structure and formatting

This chapter describes how Jesus is better than the temple and all its laws and rules. This chapter will be difficult to understand if the first five books of the Old Testament have not yet been translated.

#### Special concepts in this chapter

##### Will

A will is a legal document that describes what will happen to a person's property after he dies.

##### Blood

In the Old Testament, God had commanded the Israelites to offer sacrifices so that he would forgive their sins. Before they could offer these sacrifices, they had to kill animals and then offer not only the animal's body but also its blood. Shedding blood is a metaphor for killing an animal or person. Jesus offered his life, his blood, as a sacrifice when he allowed men to kill him. The writer of the Book of Hebrews is saying in this chapter that this sacrifice is better than the sacrifices of the Old Testament. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])

##### Return of Christ

Jesus will return to finish the work that he began when he died so that God would forgive his people's sins. He will finish saving those people who are waiting for him. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]])

#### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

##### First covenant

This refers to the covenant that God made with Moses. However, before he made this covenant, God had made a covenant with Abraham. But this was the first covenant that God had made with the people of Israel. You may decide to translate "the first covenant" as "the earlier covenant."
HEB 9 1 af6x 0 Connecting Statement: The writer makes clear to these Jewish believers that the laws and the tabernacle of the old covenant were only pictures of the better, new covenant. HEB 9 1 av9i 0 Now This word marks a new part of the teaching. HEB 9 1 d3vs 0 first covenant See how you translated this in [Hebrews 8:7](../08/07.md). HEB 9 1 pw63 0 had regulations "had detailed instructions" or "had rules" HEB 9 2 e3em 0 For The author is continuing the discussion from [Hebrews 8:7](../08/07.md). HEB 9 2 f6k7 figs-activepassive 0 a tabernacle was prepared A tabernacle was constructed and made ready for use. This idea can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the Israelites prepared a tabernacle" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 9 2 t13a 0 the lampstand, the table, and the bread of the presence These objects are all accompanied by the definite article "the," because the author assumes that his readers already know about these things. HEB 9 2 gw3p figs-abstractnouns 0 bread of the presence This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "presence" is expressed as the verb "display" or "present." Alternate translation: "bread on display before God" or "bread the priests presented to God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 9 3 j7w3 0 Behind the second curtain The first curtain was the outer wall of the tabernacle, so the "second curtain" was the curtain between the "holy place" and the "most holy place." HEB 9 3 ssr9 translate-ordinal 0 second This is the ordinal word for number two. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]]) HEB 9 4 kt3u 0 Inside it "Inside the ark of the covenant" HEB 9 4 jj9y figs-explicit 0 Aaron's rod that budded This was the rod Aaron had when God proved to the people of Israel that he had chosen Aaron as his priest by making Aaron's rod bud. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 4 md1f 0 that budded "from which leaves and flowers had grown" HEB 9 4 q9w3 0 tablets of the covenant Here "tablets" are flat pieces of stone that had writing on them. This refers to the stone tablets on which the ten commandments were written. HEB 9 5 ue5q 0 glorious cherubim overshadowed the atonement lid When the Israelites were making the ark of the covenant, God commanded them to carve two cherubim facing each other, with their wings touching, over the atonement lid of the ark of the covenant. Here they are spoken of as providing shade for the ark of the covenant. Alternate translation: "glorious cherubim covered the atonement lid with their wings" HEB 9 5 fh6g figs-metonymy 0 cherubim Here "cherubim" means figures of two cherubim. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 9 5 f1je figs-pronouns 0 which we cannot Even though the author uses the plural pronoun "we," he is most likely referring only to himself. Alternate translation: "which I cannot" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]]) HEB 9 6 mra7 figs-activepassive 0 After these things were prepared This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "After the priests prepared these things" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 9 7 xs9l figs-doublenegatives 0 not without blood This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "he always brought blood" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]]) HEB 9 7 xtk5 0 blood This is the blood of the bull and goat that the high priest had to sacrifice on the Day of Atonement. HEB 9 8 a26f 0 the most holy place Possible meanings are 1) the inner room of the tabernacle on earth or 2) God's presence in heaven. HEB 9 8 e14c figs-metonymy 0 the first tabernacle was still standing Possible meanings are 1) "the outer room of the tabernacle was still standing" or 2) "the earthly tabernacle and the sacrificial system still existed." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 9 9 cu76 0 This was an illustration "This was a picture" or "This was a symbol" HEB 9 9 fl6i 0 for the present time "for now" HEB 9 9 g16u figs-activepassive 0 that are now being offered This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that the priests now offer" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 9 9 qsa1 figs-metaphor 0 are not able to perfect the worshiper's conscience The writer speaks of a person's conscience as if it were an object that could be made better and better until it was without fault. A person's conscience is his knowledge of right and wrong. It is also his awareness of whether or not he has done wrong. If he knows he has done wrong, we say that he feels guilty. Alternate translation: "are not able to make the worshiper free from guilt" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 9 9 c31d figs-genericnoun 0 the worshiper's conscience The writer appears to refer to only one worshiper, but he means all those who came to worship God at the tabernacle. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]]) HEB 9 10 hqs8 0 until the time of the new order "until God created the new order" HEB 9 10 kqc1 0 new order "new covenant" HEB 9 11 bnc6 0 Connecting Statement: Having described the service of the tabernacle under God's law, the writer makes clear that Christ's service under the new covenant is better because it is sealed with his blood. It is better also because Christ has entered the true "tabernacle," that is, God's own presence in heaven, instead of entering, as other high priests, into the earthly tabernacle, which was only an imperfect copy. HEB 9 11 da2i 0 good things This does not refer to material things. It means the good things that God promised in his new covenant. HEB 9 11 czx6 0 the greater and more perfect tabernacle This refers to the heavenly tent or tabernacle, which is more important and more perfect than the earthly tabernacle. HEB 9 11 lxw8 figs-activepassive 0 that was not made by human hands This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that humans hands did not make" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 9 11 mtj9 figs-synecdoche 0 human hands Here "hands" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "humans" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) HEB 9 12 wp9n figs-metaphor 0 most holy place God's presence in heaven is spoken of as if it were the most holy place, the innermost room in the tabernacle. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 9 13 ch3c 0 sprinkling of a heifer's ashes on those who have become unclean The priest would drop small amounts of the ashes on the unclean people. HEB 9 13 seb3 figs-metonymy 0 for the cleansing of their flesh Here "flesh" refers to the entire body. Alternate translation: "for the cleansing of their bodies" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 9 14 t58w figs-rquestion 0 how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, cleanse our conscience from dead works to serve the living God? The author uses this question to emphasize that Christ's sacrifice was the most powerful. Alternate translation: "then certainly Christ's blood will cleanse our conscience even more from dead works to serve the living God! Because, through the eternal Spirit, he offered himself without blemish to God." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HEB 9 14 r22p figs-metonymy 0 the blood of Christ The "blood" of Christ stands for his death. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 9 14 xj6g figs-metaphor 0 blemish This is a small sin or moral fault spoken of here as if it were a small, unusual spot or defect on Christ's body. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 9 14 rkh4 figs-metonymy 0 cleanse our conscience Here "conscience" refers to a person's feeling of guilt. Believers no longer have to feel guilty for the sins they have committed because Jesus sacrificed himself and has forgiven them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 9 14 suu7 figs-metaphor 0 cleanse Here "cleanse" stands for the action of relieving our consciences from guilt for the sins we have committed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 9 14 zbj1 figs-metaphor 0 dead works Sinful deeds are spoken of as if they belonged to the world of the dead. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 9 15 x3xr 0 For this reason "As a result" or "Because of this" HEB 9 15 p2kg 0 he is the mediator of a new covenant This means Christ caused the new covenant between God and humans to exist. HEB 9 15 q3x3 0 first covenant See how you translated this in [Hebrews 8:7](../08/07.md). HEB 9 15 z29a figs-metonymy 0 to free those under the first covenant from their sins "to take away the sins of those who were under the first covenant." Possible meanings are 1) here "their sins" is a metonym for the guilt of their sins. Alternate translation: "to take away the guilt of those who were under the first covenant" or 2) here "their sins" is a metonym for the punishment for their sins. Alternate translation: "to take away the punisment for sins of those who were under the first covenant" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 9 15 ve3v figs-activepassive 0 those who are called This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "those whom God has chosen to be his children" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 9 15 xb9f figs-metaphor 0 inheritance Receiving what God has promised believers is spoken of as if it were inheriting property and wealth from a family member. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 9 16 rng2 0 will a legal document in which a person states who should receive his possessions when he himself dies HEB 9 16 um9a 0 the death of the person who made it must be proven This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "someone must prove that the person who made the will has died" HEB 9 18 wpf1 figs-activepassive 0 So not even the first covenant was established without blood This can be stated in active and positive form. Alternate translation: "So God established even the first covenant with blood" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]]) HEB 9 18 kq87 0 first covenant See how you translated this in [Hebrews 8:7](../08/07.md). HEB 9 18 v838 figs-metonymy 0 blood The death of animals sacrificed to God is spoken of as if it were nothing but blood. Alternate translation: "the death of animals sacrificed to God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 9 19 zl2n translate-symaction 0 took the blood ... with water ... and sprinkled ... the scroll ... and all the people The priest dipped the hyssop in the blood and the water and then shook the hyssop so drops of blood and water would fall on the scroll and on the people. Sprinkling was a symbolic action done by the priests by which they applied the benefits of the covenant to people and to objects. Here the scroll and the people's acceptability to God are renewed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]]) HEB 9 19 tgc2 0 hyssop a woody shrub with flowers in summer, used in ceremonial sprinkling HEB 9 20 j7en figs-metonymy 0 the blood of the covenant Here "blood" refers to the death of the animals sacrificed to carry out the covenant's requirements. Alternate translation: "the blood that brings into effect the covenant" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 9 21 k6dm 0 he sprinkled "Moses sprinkled" HEB 9 21 l27v translate-symaction 0 sprinkled Sprinkling was a symbolic action done by the priests by which they applied the benefits of the covenant to people and to objects. See how you translated this in [Hebrews 9:19](../09/19.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]]) HEB 9 21 xa9q 0 all the containers used in the service A container is an object that can hold things. Here it may refer to any kind of utensil or tool. Alternate translation: "all the utensils used in the service" HEB 9 21 ec4h figs-activepassive 0 used in the service This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the priests used in their work" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 9 21 cl3v figs-metonymy 0 blood Here the animal "blood" is talking about the animal's death. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 9 22 g3ef figs-metaphor 0 almost everything is cleansed with blood Making something acceptable to God is spoken of as if it were cleansing that thing. This idea can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the priests use blood to cleanse almost everything" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 9 22 v8bj figs-metonymy 0 Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness Here "shedding of blood" refers to something dying as a sacrifice to God. This double negative can mean that all forgiveness comes through the shedding of blood. Alternate translation: "Forgiveness only comes when something dies as a sacrifice" or "God only forgives when something dies as a sacrifice" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]]) HEB 9 22 v1tr figs-explicit 0 forgiveness You can state explicitly the implied meaning. Alternate translation: "forgiveness of the sins of the people" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 23 nh15 0 Connecting Statement: The writer emphasizes that Christ (now in heaven interceding for us) had to die only once for sins and that he will return to earth a second time. HEB 9 23 q79n figs-activepassive 0 the copies of the things in heaven should be cleansed with these animal sacrifices This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the priests should use these animal sacrifices to cleanse what are copies of things that are in heaven" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 9 23 y9b7 figs-activepassive 0 the heavenly things themselves had to be cleansed with much better sacrifices That is, better than the sacrifices used to cleanse the earthly copies. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "as for the heavenly things themselves, God had to cleanse them with much better sacrifices" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 9 24 cy2x figs-synecdoche 0 the most holy place made with hands, which Here "with hands" means "by humans." This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the most holy place, which humans made, and which" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 9 24 g5lp 0 of the true one "of the true most holy place" HEB 9 25 f17a 0 He did not go there "He did not enter heaven" HEB 9 25 rnh3 0 year by year "every year" or "each year" HEB 9 25 zpf3 0 with the blood of another This means with the blood of an animal victim, not with his own blood. HEB 9 26 lhi3 0 If that had been the case "If he had had to offer himself often" HEB 9 26 dq7m figs-metaphor 0 to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself Doing away with sin represents having God forgive it. Alternate translation: "to cause God to forgive sins by sacrificing himself" or "to sacrifice himself so that God can forgive sin" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 9 28 p8b6 figs-activepassive 0 Christ was offered once This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Christ offered himself once" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 9 28 hv2t figs-metaphor 0 to take away the sins The act of making us innocent rather than guilty for our sins is spoken of as if our sins were physical objects that Christ could carry away from us. Alternate translation: "so that God would forgive the sins" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 9 28 p6th figs-metonymy 0 the sins Here "sins" mean the guilt that people have before God because of the sins they committed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 10 intro nev1 0 # Hebrews 10 General Notes
#### Structure and formatting

In this chapter, the writer finishes describing how Jesus' sacrifice was better than the sacrifices offered in the Temple. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 10:5-7, 15-17, 37-38, which are words from the Old Testament.

#### Special concepts in this chapter

##### God's judgment and reward

Holy living is important for Christians. God will hold people accountable for how they lived their Christian life. Even though there will not be eternal condemnation for Christians, ungodly actions do and will have consequences. In addition, faithful living will be rewarded. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/reward]])

#### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

##### "For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins"
The sacrifices themselves had no redeeming power. They were effective because they were a display of faith, which was credited to the person offering the sacrifice. It was ultimately the sacrifice of Jesus which then makes these sacrifices "take away sins." (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/redeem]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])

##### "The covenant that I will make"
It is unclear whether this prophecy was being fulfilled as the author was writing or whether it was to occur later. The translator should try to avoid making a claim about the time this covenant begins. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])
HEB 10 1 kwq1 0 Connecting Statement: The writer shows the weakness of the law and its sacrifices, why God gave the law, and the perfection of the new priesthood and Christ's sacrifice. HEB 10 1 kj83 figs-metaphor 0 the law is only a shadow of the good things to come This speaks about the law as if it were a shadow. The author means the law is not the good things that God had promised. It only hints at the good things that God is going to do. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 1 r6ly 0 not the real forms of those things themselves "not the real things themselves" HEB 10 1 at4v 0 year after year "every year" HEB 10 2 aw6g figs-rquestion 0 would the sacrifices not have ceased to be offered? The author uses a question to state that the sacrifices were limited in their power. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "they would have ceased offering those sacrifices." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 10 2 zc3d 0 ceased to be "stopped being" HEB 10 2 mu42 figs-metaphor 0 the worshipers would have been cleansed Here being cleansed represents no longer being guilty of sin. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the sacrifices would have taken away their sin" or "God would have made them no longer guilty of sin" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 10 2 m9tj 0 would no longer have any consciousness of sin "would no longer think that they are guilty of sin" or "would know that they are no longer guilty of sin" HEB 10 4 di8i figs-metaphor 0 For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins Sins are spoken of as if they were objects that animal blood could sweep away as it flowed. Alternate translation: "For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to cause God to forgive sins" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 4 bvu5 figs-metonymy 0 the blood of bulls and goats Here "blood" refers to these animals dying as sacrifices to God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 10 5 q4ye 0 General Information: Christ's words when he was on earth were foretold in this quotation from a psalm of David. HEB 10 5 ml8e figs-you 0 you did not desire Here "you" is singular and refers to God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]]) HEB 10 5 cu51 0 a body you have prepared "you have made a body ready" HEB 10 7 zn6c 0 Then I said Here "I" refers to Christ. HEB 10 8 c8eb 0 General Information: Though changing the wording slightly, the author repeats these quotations from a psalm of David for emphasis. HEB 10 8 rlv8 0 sacrifices ... offerings See how you translated these words in [Hebrews 10:5](./05.md). HEB 10 8 n7kc 0 whole burnt offerings ... sacrifices for sin See how you translated similar words in [Hebrews 10:6](./06.md). HEB 10 8 d3ek figs-activepassive 0 that are offered This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that priests offer" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 10 9 k5kv 0 See "Look" or "Listen" or "Pay attention to what I am about to tell you" HEB 10 9 n29v figs-abstractnouns 0 He takes away the first practice in order to establish the second practice The abstract noun "practice" here refers to a way of atoning for sins. Stopping doing it is spoken of as if it were an object that could be taken away. Starting the second way of atoning for sins is spoken of as establishing that practice. Alternate translation: "He stops people atoning for sins the first way in order to atone for sins the second way" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 9 ja8n translate-ordinal 0 first practice ... the second practice The words "first" and "second" are ordinal numbers. Alternate translation: "old practice ... the new practice" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]]) HEB 10 10 xj9i figs-activepassive 0 we have been sanctified This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God has sanctified us" or "God has dedicated us to himself" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 10 10 xk24 figs-abstractnouns 0 through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ The abstract noun "offering" can be expressed with the verb "offer" or "sacrifice." Alternate translation: "because Jesus Christ offered his body as a sacrifice" or "because Jesus Christ sacrificed his body" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 10 11 f4wd 0 Day after day "day by day" or "every day" HEB 10 11 jq4i figs-metaphor 0 can never take away sins This speaks of "sins" as if they are an object that a person can take away. Alternate translation: "can never cause God to forgive sins" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 12 fy8w translate-symaction 0 he sat down at the right hand of God To sit at the "right hand of God" is a symbolic action of receiving great honor and authority from God. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Hebrews 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: "he sat down at the place of honor and authority beside God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]]) HEB 10 13 s6sn figs-metaphor 0 until his enemies are made a stool for his feet The humiliation of Christ's enemies is spoken of as if they were made a place for him to rest his feet. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "until God humiliates Christ's enemies and they become like a stool for his feet" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 10 14 dz9n figs-activepassive 0 those who are being sanctified This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "those whom God is sanctifying" or "those whom God has dedicated to himself" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 10 15 qk8j 0 General Information: This is a quotation from the prophet Jeremiah in the Old Testament. HEB 10 16 czh3 0 with them "with my people" HEB 10 16 s783 0 after those days "when the time of the first covenant with my people has finished" HEB 10 16 xx53 figs-metonymy 0 I will put my laws in their hearts Here "hearts" is a metonym for a person's inner being. The phrase "put them in their hearts" is a metaphor for enabling people to obey the law. Alternate translation: "I will enable them to obey my laws" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 17 vkw4 0 General Information: This continues the quotation from the prophet Jeremiah in the Old Testament. HEB 10 17 qn7w figs-explicit 0 Their sins and lawless deeds I will remember no longer." "I will no longer remember their sins and lawless deeds.'" or "I will no longer think about their sins and lawless deeds.'" This is the second part of the Holy Spirit's testimony ([Hebrews 10:15-16](./15.md)). You can make this explicit in the translation by ending the quotation at the end of verse 16 and starting a new quotation here. Alternate translation: "Then next he said, 'Their sins and lawless deeds I will remember no longer.'" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 10 17 pql9 figs-doublet 0 Their sins and lawless deeds The words "sins" and "lawless deeds" mean basically the same thing. Together they emphasize how bad the sin is. Alternate translation: "The things they did that were forbidden and how they broke the law" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 10 18 pje1 0 Now This is used to draw attention to the important point that follows. It does not mean "at this moment." HEB 10 18 pjh5 figs-abstractnouns 0 where there is forgiveness for these This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "forgiveness" is expressed as the verb "forgive." Alternate translation: "when God has forgiven these things" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 10 18 z351 figs-abstractnouns 0 there is no longer any sacrifice for sin This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "sacrifice" is expressed as the verb "make offerings." Alternate translation: "people no longer need to make offerings for sin" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 10 19 ih5u 0 Connecting Statement: Having made it clear that there is only one sacrifice for sin, the writer continues with the picture of the most holy place in the temple, where only the high priest could enter each year with the blood of the sacrifice for sins. He reminds the believers that they now worship God in his presence as if they were standing in the most holy place. HEB 10 19 f6g3 figs-metaphor 0 brothers Here this means all believers in Christ whether male or female. Alternate translation: "brothers and sisters" or "fellow believers" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) HEB 10 19 fii7 figs-metaphor 0 the most holy place This means the presence of God, not the most holy place in the old tabernacle. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 19 zl87 figs-metonymy 0 by the blood of Jesus Here "blood of Jesus" refers to the death of Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 10 20 l7wh 0 living way Possible meanings are 1) this new way to God that Jesus has provided results in believers living forever or 2) Jesus is alive, and he is the way believers enter into the presence of God. HEB 10 20 c3ve figs-metaphor 0 through the curtain The curtain in the earthly temple represents the separation between people and God's true presence. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 20 ega9 figs-metonymy 0 by means of his flesh Here "flesh" stands for the body of Jesus, and his body stands for his sacrificial death. Alternate translation: "by means of his death" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 10 21 uh6i 0 we have a great priest over the house of God This must be translated in such a way as to make it clear that Jesus is this "great priest." HEB 10 21 bmh1 0 over the house "in charge of the house" HEB 10 21 d1u1 figs-metaphor 0 the house of God This speaks about God's people as if they were a literal house. Alternate translation: "all the people of God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 22 l4ik figs-metonymy 0 let us approach Here "approach" stands for worshiping God, as a priest would go up to God's altar to sacrifice animals to him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 10 22 wez1 figs-metonymy 0 with true hearts "with faithful hearts" or "with honest hearts." Here "hearts" stands for the genuine will and motivation of the believers. Alternate translation: "with sincerity" or "sincerely" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 10 22 i7ti 0 in the full assurance of faith "and with a confident faith" or "and trusting completely in Jesus" HEB 10 22 zkg5 figs-activepassive 0 having our hearts sprinkled clean This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "as if had he made our hearts clean with his blood" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 10 22 w775 figs-metonymy 0 hearts sprinkled clean Here "hearts" is a metonym for the conscience, the awareness of right and wrong. Being made clean is a metaphor for being forgiven and being given the status of righteousness. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 22 pc1a translate-symaction 0 sprinkled Sprinkling was a symbolic action done by the priests by which they applied the benefits of the covenant to people and to objects. See how you translated this in [Hebrews 9:19](../09/19.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]]) HEB 10 22 p2sk figs-activepassive 0 having our bodies washed with pure water This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "as if he had washed our bodies in pure water" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 10 22 tk9p figs-metonymy 0 our bodies washed with pure water If the translator understands this phrase as referring to Christian baptism, then "water" is literal, not figurative. But if water is taken as literal, then "pure" is figurative, standing for the spiritual purity that baptism is said here to accomplish. The "washing" stands for the believer being made acceptable to God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 23 k5ui figs-metaphor 0 Let us also hold tightly to the confession of our hope Here "hold tightly" is a metaphor that refers to a person determining to do something and refusing to stop. The abstract nouns "confession" and "expectation" can be translated as verbs. Alternate translation: "Let us be determined to continue confessing the things that we confidently expect from God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 10 23 jy4t figs-metaphor 0 without wavering Being uncertain about something is spoken of as if he were wavering or leaning from side to side. Alternate translation: "without being unsure" or "without doubting" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 25 v4fa figs-explicit 0 Let us not stop meeting together You can make explicit that the people met to worship. Alternate translation: "Let us not stop coming together to worship" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 10 25 k9c7 figs-metaphor 0 as you see the day coming closer A future time is spoken of as if it were an object coming closer to the speaker. Here "the day" refers to when Jesus will return. Alternate translation: "as you know that Christ will return soon" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 10 26 gm7l 0 Connecting Statement: The writer now gives his fourth warning. HEB 10 26 byv6 0 we deliberately go on sinning "we know we are sinning but we do it again and again" HEB 10 26 hj5s figs-metaphor 0 after we have received the knowledge of the truth Knowledge of the truth is spoken of as if it were an object that could be given by one person to another. Alternate translation: "after we have learned the truth" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 26 b1r7 figs-explicit 0 the truth The truth about God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 10 26 l7sv figs-explicit 0 a sacrifice for sins no longer exists No one is able to give a new sacrifice because Christ's sacrifice is the only one that works. Alternate translation: "no one can offer a sacrifice for which God will forgive our sins" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 10 26 sil4 0 a sacrifice for sins Here "sacrifice for sins" stands for "an effective way to sacrifice animals to take away sins" HEB 10 27 fza4 figs-explicit 0 of judgment Of God's judgment, that is, that God will judge. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 10 27 t6da figs-metaphor 0 a fury of fire that will consume God's enemies God's fury is spoken of as if it were fire that would burn up his enemies. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 28 c1aj figs-explicit 0 of two or three witnesses It is implied that this means "of at least two or three witness." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 10 29 gv5z figs-rquestion 0 How much worse punishment do you think one deserves ... grace? The author is emphasizing the greatness of the punishment for those who reject Christ. Alternate translation: "This was severe punishment. But the punishment will be even greater for anyone ... grace!" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HEB 10 29 jd69 figs-metaphor 0 has trampled underfoot the Son of God Disregarding Christ and scorning him are spoken of as if someone had walked on him. Alternate translation: "has rejected the Son of God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 29 d2z9 guidelines-sonofgodprinciples 0 the Son of God This is an important title for Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) HEB 10 29 m7lw 0 who treated the blood of the covenant as unholy This shows how the person has trampled the Son of God. Alternate translation: "by treating the blood of the covenant as unholy" HEB 10 29 el74 figs-metonymy 0 the blood of the covenant Here "blood" stands for Christ's death, by which God established the new covenant. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 10 29 wj2p figs-activepassive 0 the blood by which he was sanctified This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the blood by which God sanctified him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 10 29 qr6c 0 the Spirit of grace "the Spirit of God, who provides grace" HEB 10 30 ynr1 figs-inclusive 0 General Information: The word "we" here refers to the writer and all believers. These two quotations come from the law that Moses gave in the Old Testament. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]]) HEB 10 30 v8ad figs-metaphor 0 Vengeance belongs to me Vengeance is spoken of as if it were an object that belongs to God, who has the right to do as he wishes with what he owns. God has the right to take vengeance on his enemies. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 30 pdw9 figs-metaphor 0 I will pay back God taking vengeance is spoken of as if he were paying back the harmful things that someone has done to others. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 31 hhu7 figs-metaphor 0 to fall into the hands Receiving God's full punishment is spoken of as if the person falls into God's hands. Here "hands" refers to God's power to judge. Alternate translation: "to receive God's full punishment" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 10 32 tlh3 0 the former days "the time in the past" HEB 10 32 p3q3 figs-metaphor 0 after you were enlightened Learning the truth is spoken of as if God shined a light on the person. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "after you learned the truth about Christ" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 10 32 v25j 0 how you endured a great struggle in suffering "how much suffering you had to endure" HEB 10 33 cig1 figs-activepassive 0 You were exposed to public ridicule by insults and persecution This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "People ridiculed you by insulting and persecuting you in public" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 10 33 u1gk 0 you were sharing with those "you joined those" HEB 10 34 cjr6 figs-metaphor 0 a better and everlasting possession God's eternal blessings are spoken of as a "possession." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 35 xh64 0 General Information: In 10:37 is a quotation from the prophet Isaiah in the Old Testament. HEB 10 35 m35c figs-metaphor 0 do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward A person no longer having confidence is spoken of as if the person were to throw confidence away, like a person would discard something worthless. The abstract noun "confidence" can be translated with the adjective "confident" or the adverb "confidently." Alternate translation: "do not stop being confident, because you will receive a great reward for being confident" or "do not stop confidently trusting in God, who will reward you greatly" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 10 37 st8v figs-explicit 0 For in a very little while You can make this explicit. Alternate translation: "As God said in the scriptures, 'For in a very little while" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 10 37 cna2 0 in a very little while "very soon" HEB 10 38 j2ck 0 General Information: In 10:38 the author quotes from the prophet Habakkuk, which directly follows the quotation from the prophet Isaiah in 10:37. HEB 10 38 j6d1 figs-genericnoun 0 My righteous one ... If he shrinks ... with him These refer to any of God's people in general. Alternate translation: "My faithful people ... If any one of them shrinks ... with that person" or "My faithful people ... If they shrink ... with them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]]) HEB 10 38 r8mh 0 My righteous ... I will Here "My" and "I" refer to God. HEB 10 38 h5bw 0 shrinks back stops doing the good thing he is doing HEB 10 39 i9zh figs-metaphor 0 who turn back to destruction A person who loses courage and faith are spoken of as if he were stepping back in fear from something. And "destruction" is spoken of as if it were a destination. Alternate translation: "who stop trusting God, which will cause him to destroy us" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 10 39 dv8y figs-metaphor 0 for keeping our soul Living eternally with God is spoken of as if it were keeping one's soul. Here "soul" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: ", which will result in us living with God forever" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) HEB 11 intro g4cc 0 # Hebrews 11 General Notes
#### Structure

The writer begins this chapter by telling what faith is. Then he gives many examples of people who had faith and how they lived.

#### Important concepts in this chapter

##### Faith

In both the old and new covenants, God required faith. Some people with faith performed miracles and were very powerful. Other people with faith suffered greatly.
HEB 11 1 a371 0 Connecting Statement: The author tells three things about faith in this brief introduction. HEB 11 1 d95i 0 Now This word is used here to mark a break in the main teaching. Here the author starts to explain the meaning of "faith." HEB 11 1 dne9 0 faith is being sure of the things hoped for This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "when we have faith, we are sure of the things we hope for" or "faith is what allows a person to confidently expect certain things" HEB 11 1 hiq2 0 hoped for Here this refers specifically to the sure promises of God, especially the certainty that all believers in Jesus will live with God forever in heaven. HEB 11 1 ybd8 figs-activepassive 0 certain of things that are not seen This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that we still have not seen" or "that still have not happened" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 2 smr4 0 For because of this "Because they were certain about events that had not happened" HEB 11 2 kmq6 figs-activepassive 0 the ancestors were approved for their faith This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God approved of our ancestors because they had faith" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 2 u66c figs-explicit 0 the ancestors The author is speaking to the Hebrews about Hebrew ancestors. Alternate translation: "our ancestors" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 11 3 u5i9 figs-activepassive 0 the universe was created by God's command This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God created the universe by commanding it to exist" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 3 e7fs 0 what is visible was not made out of things that were visible This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God did not create what we see out of things that were visible" HEB 11 4 w5de 0 Connecting Statement: The writer then gives many examples (mostly from Old Testament writings) of people who lived by faith even though they did not receive what God had promised while they lived on the earth. HEB 11 4 r2m8 figs-activepassive 0 he was attested to be righteous This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God declared him to be righteous" or "God declared that Abel was righteous" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 4 g52j figs-metaphor 0 Abel still speaks Reading the scriptures and learning about Abel's faith is spoken of as if Abel himself were still speaking. Alternate translation: "we still learn from what Abel did" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 11 5 r3yl figs-activepassive 0 It was by faith that Enoch was taken up so that he did not see death This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "It was by faith that Enoch did not die because God took him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 5 ki2t figs-metaphor 0 see death This speaks of death as if it were an object that people can see. It means to experience death. Alternate translation: "die" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 11 5 kb5l figs-activepassive 0 before he was taken up This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "before God took him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 5 jbx2 figs-activepassive 0 it was testified that he had pleased God This can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are 1) "God said that Enoch had pleased him" or 2) "people said that Enoch pleased God." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 6 hd94 0 Now without faith Here "Now" does not mean "at this moment," but is used to draw attention to the important point that follows. HEB 11 6 r9nb figs-doublenegatives 0 without faith it is impossible to please him This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "a person can please God only if he has faith in God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]]) HEB 11 6 b438 figs-metaphor 0 that anyone coming to God Wanting to worship God and belong to his people is spoken of as if the person is literally coming to God. Alternate translation: "that anyone who wants to belong to God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 11 6 xl5v 0 he is a rewarder of those "he rewards those" HEB 11 6 i8e9 figs-metaphor 0 those who seek him Those who learn about God and make an effort to obey him are spoken of as if they were seeking to find him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 11 7 r67b figs-activepassive 0 having been given a divine message This can be stated in active form and in other terms. Alternate translation: "because God told him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 7 p3pn figs-activepassive 0 about things not yet seen This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "about things no one had ever seen before" or "about events that had not happened yet" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 7 pf7b figs-metonymy 0 the world Here "world" refers to the world's human population. Alternate translation: "the people living in the world at that time" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 11 7 c9yc figs-metaphor 0 became an heir of the righteousness Noah is spoken of as if he were to inherit property and wealth from a family member. Alternate translation: "received from God the righteousness" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 11 7 et9l 0 that is according to faith "that God gives to those who have faith in him" HEB 11 8 a7c2 figs-activepassive 0 when he was called This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "when God called him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 8 kkt5 0 went out to the place "left his home to go to the place" HEB 11 8 d1zf figs-metaphor 0 that he was to receive as an inheritance The land that God promised to give Abraham's descendants is spoken of as if it were an inheritance that Abraham was to receive. Alternate translation: "that God would give him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 11 8 sq21 0 He went out "He left his home" HEB 11 9 pmb6 figs-abstractnouns 0 he lived in the land of promise as a foreigner This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "promise" is expressed as the verb "promised." Alternate translation: "he lived as a foreigner in the land God had promised to him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 11 9 s5fw figs-metaphor 0 fellow heirs "heirs together." This speaks about Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob as if they were heirs that would receive an inheritance from their father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 11 10 f3z8 figs-metonymy 0 the city with foundations "the city that has foundations." Having foundations indicates that the city is permanent. Alternate translation: "the eternal city" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 11 10 fd98 0 whose architect and builder is God "which is designed and built by God" or "which God would design and build" HEB 11 10 ufe6 0 architect a person who designs buildings and cities HEB 11 11 ks44 0 General Information: Many versions interpret this verse as referring to Sarah, and others interpret it as referring to Abraham. HEB 11 11 mk6i 0 It was by faith, even though Sarah herself was barren, that Abraham received ability to father a child. This happened even though he was too old, since he considered Some versions interpret this verse as referring to Sarah. "By faith Sarah, herself also barren, received power to bear children even beyond the time of maturity, since she considered" HEB 11 11 mtf2 figs-abstractnouns 0 It was by faith The abstract noun "faith" can be expressed with the verb "believe." Possible meanings are 1) it was by Abraham's faith. Alternate translation: "It was because Abraham believed God" or 2) it was by Sarah's faith. Alternate translation: "It was because Sarah believed God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 11 11 dgu6 0 received ability to father a child "received ability to become a father" or "received ability to have a child" HEB 11 11 wgp6 0 since he considered as faithful the one who had given the promise "because he believed God, who had give the promise, to be faithful" HEB 11 12 x8b2 figs-simile 0 descendants as many as the stars in the sky and as countless as sand by the seashore This simile means Abraham had very many descendants. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HEB 11 12 mu4e 0 as countless as sand by the seashore This means that just as there are so many grains of sand on the seashore that no one can count them all, Abraham had so many descendants that no one can count them all. HEB 11 13 yin6 figs-metaphor 0 without receiving the promises This speaks of promises as if they are objects that a person receives. Alternate translation: "without receiving what God had promised them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 11 13 g5ut figs-metaphor 0 after seeing and greeting them from far off Future promised events are spoken of as if they were travelers arriving from far away. Alternate translation: "after learning what God will do in the future" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 11 13 n71b 0 they admitted "they acknowledged" or "they accepted" HEB 11 13 q1nq figs-doublet 0 they were foreigners and exiles on earth Here "foreigners" and "exiles" mean basically the same thing. This emphasizes that this earth was not their true home. They were waiting for their true home that God would make for them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 11 14 xwa4 0 a homeland "a country for them to belong to" HEB 11 16 ea1a 0 heavenly one "heavenly country" or "country in heaven" HEB 11 16 cvh1 figs-activepassive 0 God is not ashamed to be called their God This can be expressed in active and positive form. Alternate translation: "God is happy to have them call him their God" or "God is proud to have them say that he is their God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]]) HEB 11 17 bk7a figs-activepassive 0 when he was tested This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "when God tested him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 18 wy2j figs-activepassive 0 to whom it had been said This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "to whom God said" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 18 c23z figs-activepassive 0 that your descendants will be named Here "named" means assigned or designated. This sentence can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that I will designate your descendants" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 11 19 p43u 0 God was able to raise up Isaac from the dead "God was able to cause Isaac to live again" HEB 11 19 sar1 0 to raise up ... from the dead In this verse, "to raise up" is to make alive again. The words "from the dead" speak of all dead people together in the underworld. HEB 11 19 aea3 0 figuratively speaking "in a manner of speaking." This means that what the author says next is not to be understood literally. God did not bring Isaac back from death literally. But because Abraham was about to sacrifice Isaac when God stopped him, it was as if God brought him back from the dead. HEB 11 19 k7u3 0 it was from them "it was from the dead" HEB 11 19 g19x 0 he received him back "Abraham received Isaac back" HEB 11 21 sg26 0 Jacob worshiped "Jacob worshiped God" HEB 11 22 lkp6 figs-euphemism 0 when his end was near Here "his end" is a polite way of referring to death. Alternate translation: "when he was about to die" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]]) HEB 11 22 hhs3 0 spoke of the departure of the children of Israel from Egypt "spoke of when the children of Israel would leave Egypt" HEB 11 22 t6i5 0 the children of Israel "the Israelites" or "the descendants of Israel" HEB 11 22 nl1i figs-explicit 0 instructed them about his bones Joseph died while in Egypt. He wanted his people to take his bones with them when they left Egypt so they could bury his bones in the land that God promised them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 11 23 g2wx figs-activepassive 0 Moses, when he was born, was hidden for three months by his parents This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Moses' parents hid him for three months after he was born" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 24 h5wz 0 had grown up "had become an adult" HEB 11 24 mq2x figs-activepassive 0 refused to be called This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "refused to allow people to call him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 26 i9sc figs-abstractnouns 0 the disgrace of following Christ This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "disgrace" is express as the verb "disrespect." Alternate translation: "the experience of people disrespecting him because he did what Christ would want" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 11 26 xq6t figs-metaphor 0 following Christ Obeying Christ is spoken of as if it were following him down a path. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 11 26 t588 figs-metaphor 0 fixing his eyes on his reward Fully concentrating on achieving a goal is spoken of as if a person were staring at an object and refusing to look away. Alternate translation: "doing what he knew would earn him a reward in heaven" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 11 27 rc43 figs-simile 0 he endured as if he were seeing the one who is invisible Moses is spoken of as if he saw God, who is invisible. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) HEB 11 27 cc8w 0 the one who is invisible "the one no one can see" HEB 11 28 tz7k 0 he kept the Passover and the sprinkling of the blood This was the first Passover. Moses kept it by obeying God's commands concerning the Passover and by commanding the people to obey them every year. Alternate translation: "he commanded the people to obey God's commands concerning the Passover and to sprinkle blood on their doors" or "he established the Passover and the sprinkling of blood" HEB 11 28 bef7 figs-explicit 0 the sprinkling of the blood This refers to God's command to the Israelites to kill a lamb and spread its blood on the doorposts of every house where Israelites lived. This would prevent the destroyer from harming their firstborn sons. This was one of the Passover commands. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 11 28 bm2f figs-metonymy 0 should not touch Here "touch" refers to harming or to killing someone. Alternate translation: "would not harm" or "would not kill" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 11 29 z2yj 0 General Information: Here the first word "they" refers to the Israelites, the second "they" refers to the Egyptians, the third "they" refers to the walls of Jericho. HEB 11 29 a67h 0 they passed through the Sea of Reeds "the Israelites passed through the Sea of Reeds" HEB 11 29 hq2y figs-activepassive 0 they were swallowed up This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the water swallowed up the Egyptians" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 29 kmy8 figs-personification 0 they were swallowed up The water is spoken of as if it were an animal. Alternate translation: "the Egyptians drowned in the water" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HEB 11 30 lnw4 figs-activepassive 0 they had been circled around for seven days This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the Israelites had marched around them for seven days" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 30 dw7v translate-numbers 0 seven days "7 days" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]]) HEB 11 31 ftc8 0 had received the spies in peace "had peacefully received the spies" HEB 11 32 f7ip 0 Connecting Statement: The writer continues to speak of what God did for the ancestors of the people of Israel. HEB 11 32 rh6y figs-rquestion 0 What more can I say? The author uses a question to emphasize that there are many examples that he could have quoted. This can be expressed as a statement. Alternate translation: "And there are many more examples." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HEB 11 32 bs7h 0 the time will fail me "I will not have enough time" HEB 11 32 ni55 translate-names 0 Barak This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) HEB 11 33 f3jx 0 It was through faith that they Here "they" does not mean that each person listed in 11:32 did all the things the author is about to mention. The author means in general these are the kinds of things that those with faith were able to do. Alternate translation: "It was through faith that men like these" HEB 11 33 v5w8 0 they conquered kingdoms Here "kingdoms" refers to the people who lived there. Alternate translation: "they defeated the people of foreign kingdoms" HEB 11 33 u2su figs-metaphor 0 They stopped the mouths of lions These words begin a list of some of the ways God saved believers from death. Alternate translation: "They kept lions from eating them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 11 34 j6sv figs-metaphor 0 extinguished the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword These are some of the ways God saved believers from death. Alternate translation: "they kept fire from burning them, they kept their enemies from killing them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 11 34 iri4 figs-activepassive 0 were healed of illnesses This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "received healing from God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 34 sy63 0 became mighty in battle, and defeated "and they became mighty in battle and defeated" HEB 11 35 t9sp figs-abstractnouns 0 Women received back their dead by resurrection This can be restated to remove the abstract noun "resurrection." The word "dead" is a nominal adjective. It can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "Women received back alive those who had died" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]]) HEB 11 35 ne1u figs-activepassive 0 Others were tortured, not accepting release It is implied that their enemies would have released them from prison under certain conditions. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Others accepted torture rather than release from prison" or "Others allowed their enemies to torture them rather than doing what their enemies required of them in order to release them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 11 35 faq3 0 tortured made to suffer great mental or physical pain HEB 11 35 jyw7 0 a better resurrection Possible meanings are 1) these people will experience a better life in heaven than what they experienced in this world or 2) these people will have a better resurrection than those who did not have faith. Those with faith will live forever with God. Those without faith will live forever separated from God. HEB 11 36 e9al figs-activepassive 0 Others had testing in mocking and whippings These can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "People mocked and whipped others" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 36 nx7u figs-abstractnouns 0 Others had testing in mocking and whippings, and even chains and imprisonment This can be reworded so that the abstract nouns are expressed as verbs. Alternate translation: "God tested others by allowing their enemies to mock and whip them and even put them in chains and imprison them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 11 37 fg8c figs-activepassive 0 They were stoned. They were sawn in two. They were killed with the sword These can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "People mocked and whipped others ... People threw stones at others. People sawed others in two. People killed others with the sword" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 37 r3gx 0 went about "went from place to place" or "lived all the time" HEB 11 37 qf89 0 in sheepskins and goatskins "wearing only the skins of sheep and goats" HEB 11 37 x2jf 0 They were destitute "They had nothing" or "They were very poor" HEB 11 38 a721 figs-metonymy 0 The world was not worthy Here "world" refers to the people. Alternate translation: "The people of this world were not worthy" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 11 38 j9lp 0 They were always wandering about This was because they had no place to live. HEB 11 38 li8j 0 caves and holes in the ground "caves, and some lived in holes in the ground" HEB 11 39 l5wd figs-activepassive 0 Although all these people were approved by God because of their faith, they did not receive the promise This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God honored all these because of their faith, but they did not themselves receive what God had promised" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 11 39 vgw2 figs-metonymy 0 the promise This expression stands for "what God had promised them." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 11 40 p9uu figs-activepassive 0 so that without us, they would not be made perfect This can be stated in positive and active form. Alternate translation: "in order that God would perfect us and them together" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 12 intro h1qb 0 # Hebrews 12 General Notes
#### Structure and formatting

After telling of the value discipline, the author begins a series of exhortations. (See; [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/exhort]])

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 12:5-6, which are words from the Old Testament.

#### Special concepts in this chapter

##### Discipline

God wants his people to do what is right. When they do what is wrong, he needs to correct or punish them. He does this just as earthly fathers correct and punish children whom they love. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/discipline]])
HEB 12 1 jg6w figs-inclusive 0 General Information: The words "we" and "us" refer to the author and his readers. The word "you" is plural and here refers to the readers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]]) HEB 12 1 k8mr 0 Connecting Statement: Because of this great number of Old Testament believers, the author talks of the life of faith that believers should live with Jesus as their example. HEB 12 1 f6u9 figs-metaphor 0 we are surrounded by such a large cloud of witnesses The writer speaks about the Old Testament believers as if they were a cloud that surrounded the present-day believers. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "such a large cloud of witnesses surrounds us" or "there are so many examples of faithful people about whom we learn in the scriptures" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 12 1 hf97 0 witnesses Here "witnesses" refers to the Old Testament believers in chapter 11 who lived before the race of faith that believers now run. HEB 12 1 yw1t figs-metaphor 0 let us lay aside every weight and easily entangling sin Here "weight" and "easily entangling sin" are spoken of as if a person could take them off himself and put them down. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 12 1 zln7 figs-metaphor 0 every weight Attitudes or habits that keep believers from trusting and obeying God are spoken of as if they were loads that would make it difficult for a person to carry while running. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 12 1 t6wu figs-metaphor 0 easily entangling sin Sin is spoken of as if it were a net or something else that can trip people up and make them fall. Alternate translation: "sin that makes obeying God difficult" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 12 1 g5dn figs-metaphor 0 Let us patiently run the race that is placed before us Following Jesus is spoken of as if it were running a race. Alternate translation: "Let us continue obeying what God has commanded us, just like a runner keeps going until the race is over" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 12 2 a946 0 the founder and perfecter of the faith Jesus gives us faith and makes our faith perfect by causing us to reach our goal. Alternate translation: "creator and finisher of our faith" or "the one who enables us to have faith from beginning to end" HEB 12 2 za14 figs-metaphor 0 For the joy that was placed before him The joy that Jesus would experience is spoken of as if God the Father had placed it before him as a goal to reach. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 12 2 y7me 0 despised its shame This means he was not concerned about the shame of dying on a cross. HEB 12 2 vm9b translate-symaction 0 sat down at the right hand of the throne of God To sit at the "right hand of God" is a symbolic action of receiving great honor and authority from God. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Hebrews 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: "sat down at the place of honor and authority beside the throne of God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]]) HEB 12 3 i1xl figs-metonymy 0 weary in your hearts Here "hearts" represents a person's thoughts and emotions. Alternate translation: "discouraged" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 12 4 q1w8 0 Connecting Statement: The author of Hebrews has been comparing the Christian life to a race. HEB 12 4 b9b7 figs-personification 0 You have not yet resisted or struggled against sin Here "sin" is spoken of as if it were a person whom someone fights in a battle. Alternate translation: "You have not yet had to endure attacks of sinners" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HEB 12 4 i4ip figs-metaphor 0 to the point of blood Resisting opposition so much that one dies for it is spoken of as if one reached a certain place where he would die. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 12 4 uwg6 figs-metonymy 0 of blood Here "blood" refers to death. Alternate translation: "of death" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 12 5 y6cv figs-personification 0 the encouragement that instructs you Old Testament scripture is spoken of as if it were a person who could encourage others. Alternate translation: "what God has instructed you in the scriptures to encourage you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]) HEB 12 5 e6a9 figs-gendernotations 0 as sons ... My son The word translated "sons" and "son" is specifically the word for a male child. In that culture the family line continued through the sons, not normally through the daughters. However, as stated by the UST and some English versions, the author is directing his words to both males and females. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) HEB 12 5 a7vf 0 My son ... corrected by him Here the author is quoting from the book of Proverbs in the Old Testament, which was the words of Solomon to his male children. HEB 12 5 cxe9 figs-litotes 0 do not think lightly of the Lord's discipline, nor grow weary This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "take it very seriously when the Lord disciplines you, and do not grow weary" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]]) HEB 12 5 cjq5 0 nor grow weary "and do not become discouraged" HEB 12 5 i1a6 figs-activepassive 0 you are corrected by him This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "he corrects you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 12 6 zu3c 0 every son whom he receives The word translated "son" is specifically the word for a male child. In that culture the family line continued through the sons, not normally through the daughters. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations) HEB 12 7 y3z3 0 Endure suffering as discipline "Understand that during suffering God teaches us discipline" HEB 12 7 v1gu figs-simile 0 God deals with you as with sons This compares God disciplining his people to a father disciplining his sons. You can state clearly the understood information. Alternate translation: "God deals with you the same way a father deals with his sons" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]]) HEB 12 7 i3k4 figs-gendernotations 0 sons ... son All occurrences of these words may be stated to include males and females. Alternate translation: "children ... child" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) HEB 12 7 jb38 figs-rquestion 0 what son is there whom his father does not discipline? The author makes the point throught this question that every good father disciplines his children. This can be expressed as a statement. Alternate translation: "every father disciplines his children!" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) HEB 12 8 kwc6 figs-abstractnouns 0 But if you are without discipline, which all people share in You can restate the abstract noun "discipline" as the verb "disciplining." Alternate translation: "So if you have not experienced God disciplining you like he disciplines all his children" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 12 8 s5u9 figs-metaphor 0 then you are illegitimate and not his sons Those whom God does not discipline are spoken of as if they are sons born to a man and a woman who are not married each other. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 12 9 r4lb figs-exclamations 0 How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! The author uses an exclamation to emphasize that we should obey God the Father. This can be expressed as a statement. Alternate translation: "Therefore even more so, we should obey the Father of spirits and live." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]]) HEB 12 9 cl95 figs-idiom 0 the Father of spirits This idiom contrasts with "fathers in the flesh." Alternate translation: "our spiritual Father" or "our Father in heaven" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) HEB 12 9 pem8 0 and live "so that we will live" HEB 12 10 l1a3 figs-metaphor 0 so that we can share in his holiness This metaphor speaks of "holiness" as if it were an object that can be shared among people. Alternate translation: "so that we may become holy as God is holy" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 12 11 g13e figs-metaphor 0 it produces the peaceful fruit of righteousness "Fruit" here is a metaphor for "result" or "outcome." Alternate translation: "it produces the peaceful result of righteousness" or "it produces righteousness, which results in peace" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 12 11 xbg8 figs-personification 0 who have been trained by it "who have been trained by discipline." The discipline or correction done by the Lord is spoken of as if it were the Lord himself. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "whom God has trained by disciplining them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 12 12 cvp9 figs-metaphor 0 strengthen your hands that hang down and your weak knees. Possibly this continues the metaphor about the race in [Hebrews 12:1](../12/01.md). It is in this way that the author speaks about living as Christians and helping others. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 12 13 yi9n figs-metaphor 0 Make straight paths for your feet Possibly this continues the metaphor about the race in [Hebrews 12:1](../12/01.md). It is in this way that the author speaks about living as Christians and helping others. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 12 13 qmq7 figs-metaphor 0 straight paths Living so as to honor and please God is spoken of as if it were a straight path to follow. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 12 13 i19d figs-metaphor 0 what is lame will not be sprained In this metaphor of running a race, "lame" represents another person in the race who is hurt and wants to quit. This, in turn, represent the Christians themselves. Alternate translation: "whoever is weak and wants to quit will not sprain his ankle" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 12 13 euf9 figs-metaphor 0 will not be sprained Someone who stops obeying God is spoken of as if he injured his foot or ankle on a path. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "will not sprain his ankle" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 12 13 wq18 figs-metaphor 0 rather be healed This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "instead become strong" or "instead God will heal him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 12 14 b6ef 0 General Information: The man Esau, who was told about in the writings of Moses, refers to Isaac's first son and Jacob's brother. HEB 12 14 h45r figs-metaphor 0 Pursue peace with everyone Here the abstract noun "peace" is spoken of as if it were something that a person must chase after and can be translated with an adverb. Alternate translation: "Try to live peacefully with everyone" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 12 14 pa9a figs-doublenegatives 0 also the holiness without which no one will see the Lord This can be expressed as a positive encouragement. Alternate translation: "also work hard to be holy, because only holy people will see the Lord" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]]) HEB 12 14 v9z7 figs-ellipsis 0 also the holiness You can state clearly the understood information. Alternate translation: "also pursue the holiness" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]]) HEB 12 15 at8j 0 no one lacks God's grace "no one receives God's grace and then lets go of it" or "no one rejects God's grace after first trusting in him" HEB 12 15 nh7g figs-metaphor 0 that no root of bitterness grows up to cause trouble, so that many do not become polluted by it Hateful or resentful attitudes are spoken of as if they were a plant bitter to the taste. Alternate translation: "that no one becomes like a bitter root, which when it grows causes trouble and harms many people" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 12 17 j6x8 figs-activepassive 0 he was rejected This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "his father, Isaac, refused to bless him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 12 17 d6he figs-abstractnouns 0 because he found no opportunity for repentance The abstract noun "repentance" can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "because it was not possible for him to repent" or "because it was not possible for him to change his decision" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) HEB 12 17 b7k3 0 even though he sought it with tears Here "he" refers to Esau. HEB 12 18 y1ed 0 General Information: The words "you" and "You" refer to the Hebrew believers to whom the author wrote. The word "they" refers to people of Israel after Moses led them out of Egypt. The first quotation comes from the writings of Moses. God reveals in this passage in Hebrews that Moses said he shook at seeing the mountain. HEB 12 18 xti4 0 Connecting Statement: The author gives a contrast between what believers in Moses' time had while living under the law and what present day believers have after coming to Jesus under the new covenant. He illustrates the experience of the Israelites by describing how God appeared to them at Mount Sinai. HEB 12 18 a43l figs-explicit 0 For you have not come to a mountain that can be touched The implicit information can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: "For you have not come, as the people of Israel came, to a mountain that can be touched" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 12 18 w6j6 figs-activepassive 0 that can be touched This means that believers in Christ have not come to a physical mountain like Mount Sinai that a person can touch or see. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that a person can touch" or "that people can perceive with their senses" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 12 19 s3x2 0 You have not come to a trumpet blast "You have not come to a place where there is the loud sound of a trumpet" HEB 12 19 x2qk figs-metonymy 0 nor to a voice that speaks words whose hearers begged that not another word be spoken to them Here "voice" refers to someone speaking. The phrase "be spoken" can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "or where God was speaking in such a way that those who heard him begged him not to speak another word to them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 12 20 p7qu figs-activepassive 0 what was commanded This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "what God commanded" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 12 20 x31x figs-activepassive 0 it must be stoned This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "you must stone it" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 12 22 w9jj 0 General Information: The man Abel was the son of the first man and woman, Adam and Eve. Cain, also their son, murdered Abel. HEB 12 22 r9dz figs-metaphor 0 Mount Zion The writer speaks of Mount Zion, the temple mount in Jerusalem, as if it were heaven itself, the residence of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 12 22 k1kv 0 tens of thousands of angels "an uncountable number of angels" HEB 12 23 j94e figs-metaphor 0 the firstborn This speaks of believers in Christ as if they were firstborn sons. This emphasizes their special place and privilege as God's people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 12 23 km4a figs-activepassive 0 registered in heaven "whose names are written in heaven." This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "whose names God has written in heaven" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 12 23 i7qb figs-activepassive 0 who have been made perfect This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "whom God has made perfect" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 12 24 kq1v 0 the mediator of a new covenant This means Jesus caused the new covenant between God and humans to exist. See how you translated this phrase in [Hebrews 9:15](../09/15.md). HEB 12 24 nz8l figs-personification 0 the sprinkled blood that speaks better than Abel's blood The blood of Jesus and the blood of Abel are spoken of as if they were people calling out. Alternate translation: "the sprinkled blood of Jesus that says better things than the blood of Abel" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 12 24 z7uq figs-metonymy 0 blood Here "blood" stands for Jesus' death, as Abel's blood stands for his death. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 12 25 pnn5 figs-you 0 General Information: This quotation is from the prophet Haggai in the Old Testament. The word "you" continues to refer to believers. The word "we" continues to refer to the writer and the readers who are believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]]) HEB 12 25 c9cn 0 Connecting Statement: Having contrasted the Israelites' experience at Mount Sinai with the believers' experience after Christ died, the writer reminds believers that they have the same God who warns them today. This is the fifth main warning given to believers. HEB 12 25 nnk9 figs-doublenegatives 0 you do not refuse the one who is speaking This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "you pay attention to the one who is speaking" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]]) HEB 12 25 gkn1 figs-explicit 0 if they did not escape The implicit information can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: "if the people of Israel did not escape judgment" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 12 25 fy9u 0 the one who warned them on earth Possible meanings are 1) "Moses, who warned them here on earth" or 2) "God, who warned them at Mount Sinai" HEB 12 25 s5lj figs-metaphor 0 if we turn away from the one who is warning Disobeying God is spoken of as if a person were changing direction and walking away from him. Alternate translation: "if we disobey the one who is warning" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 12 26 rf4e 0 his voice shook the earth "when God spoke, the sound of his voice caused the earth to shake" HEB 12 26 i1c8 0 shook ... shake Use the word for what an earthquake does in moving the ground. This refers back to [Hebrews 12:18-21](./18.md) and what happened when the people saw the mountain where Moses received the law from God. HEB 12 27 ylq9 0 General Information: Here the quotation from the prophet Haggai is repeated from the previous verse. HEB 12 27 z6ys figs-abstractnouns 0 mean the removal of those things that can be shaken, that is, of the things The abstract noun "removal" can be translated with the verb "remove." This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "mean that God will remove the things that he can shake, that is, the things" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 12 27 l29r 0 shaken Use the word for what an earthquake does in moving the ground. This refers back to [Hebrews 12:18-21](./18.md) and what happened when the people saw the mountain where Moses received the law from God. See how you translated "shook" and "shake" in [Hebrews 12:26](../12/26.md). HEB 12 27 s3xt figs-activepassive 0 that have been created This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that God has created" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 12 27 ta84 figs-activepassive 0 the things that cannot be shaken This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the things that do not shake" or "the things that cannot shake" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 12 27 zr9x figs-activepassive 0 that cannot be shaken This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that does not shake" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 12 28 m44c writing-connectingwords 0 receiving a kingdom You can add the words "because we are" to make clear the logical connection between this statement and the next statement. Alternate translation: "because we are receiving a kingdom" or "because God is making us members of his kingdom" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-connectingwords]]) HEB 12 28 btf6 0 let us be grateful "let us give thanks" HEB 12 28 f382 figs-doublet 0 with reverence and awe The words "reverence" and "awe" share similar meanings and emphasize the greatness of reverence due to God. Alternate translation: "with great respect and dread" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) HEB 12 29 f899 figs-metaphor 0 our God is a consuming fire God is spoken of here as if he were a fire that can burn up anything. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 13 intro c8gg 0 # Hebrews 13 General Notes
#### Structure and formatting

The author finishes the list of exhortations he began in chapter 12. Then he asks the readers to pray for him and ends the letter.

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 13:6, which are words from the Old Testament.

#### Special concepts in this chapter

##### Hospitality

God wants his people to invite other people to come to their homes to eat food and even to sleep. His people should do this even if they do not know well the people they are inviting. In the Old Testament, Abraham and his nephew Lot both showed hospitality to people they did not know. Abraham served a costly meal to them, and then Lot invited them to sleep in his house. They learned later that those people were actually angels.
HEB 13 1 sf1n 0 Connecting Statement: In this closing section, the author gives specific instructions to believers on how they are supposed to live. HEB 13 1 g819 0 Let brotherly love continue "Continue to show your love for other believers as you would for a member of your family" HEB 13 2 rh7r figs-litotes 0 Do not forget This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "Be sure to remember" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]]) HEB 13 2 y7cd 0 hospitality for strangers "to welcome and show kindness to strangers" HEB 13 3 mx5r figs-activepassive 0 as if you were bound with them This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "as if you were tied up along with them" or "as if you were in prison with them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 13 3 d3ze figs-activepassive 0 who are mistreated This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "whom others are mistreating" or "who are suffering" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 13 3 g4ap figs-activepassive 0 as if you also were them in the body This phrase encourages believers to think about other people's suffering as they would think about their own suffering. Alternate translation: "as if you were the one suffering" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 13 4 ix27 figs-activepassive 0 Let marriage be respected by everyone This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Men and women who are married to each other must respect each other" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 13 4 ix79 figs-euphemism 0 Let the marriage bed be pure This refers to the act of sexual union as if it were only the bed of a married couple. Alternate translation: "Let husbands and wives honor their marriage relationship to one another and not sleep with other people" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 13 5 sz35 0 Let your conduct be free from the love of money Here "conduct" refers to a person's character or the way he lives, and "free from the love of money" refers to not greatly desiring to have more money. A person who loves money is not content with the amount of money he has. Alternate translation: "Let your conduct not be affected by the love of money" or "Do not greatly wish to have more money" HEB 13 5 n19c 0 Be content "Be satisfied" HEB 13 6 c8w6 figs-explicit 0 The Lord is my helper ... do to me This is a quotation from the book of Psalms in the Old Testament. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) HEB 13 6 q8ie figs-rquestion 0 I will not be afraid. What can a man do to me? The author uses a question to emphasize that he does not fear people because God is helping him. Here "man" means any person in general. Alternate translation: "I will not fear what any person can do to me!" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) HEB 13 7 e6b5 0 God's word "what God has said" HEB 13 7 ym9m 0 the result of their conduct "the outcome of the way they behave" HEB 13 7 tvu6 figs-metonymy 0 Imitate their faith Here the trust in God and the way of life led by these leaders are spoken of as "their faith." Alternate translation: "Trust and obey God in the same way they do" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 13 8 dv5g figs-metonymy 0 is the same yesterday, today, and forever Here "yesterday" means all times in the past. Alternate translation: "is the same in the past, the present, and in the future forever" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 13 9 y92c 0 General Information: This section refers to animal sacrifices made by believers in God in Old Testament times, which covered their sins temporarily until the death of Christ came about. HEB 13 9 dp5w figs-metaphor 0 Do not be carried away by various strange teachings Being persuaded by various teachings is spoken of as if a person were being carried away by a force. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Do not let others persuade you to believe their various strange teachings" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 13 9 fe6i 0 various strange teachings "many, different teachings that are not the good news we told you" HEB 13 9 tmt1 figs-metaphor 0 it is good that the heart should be strengthened by grace, not by foods that do not help those who walk by them This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "we become stronger when we think of how God has been kind to us, but we do not become stronger by obeying rules about food" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 13 9 t28u figs-metonymy 0 the heart should be strengthened Here "heart" is a metonym for the "inner being." Alternate translation: "we should be strengthened inwardly" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 13 9 ar93 figs-metonymy 0 foods Here "foods" stands for rules about food. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 13 9 kf3b figs-metaphor 0 those who walk by them Living is spoken of as if it were walking. Alternate translation: "those who live by them" or "those who regulate their lives by them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 13 10 jjy3 figs-metonymy 0 We have an altar Here "altar" stands for "place of worship." It also stands for the animals that the priests in the old covenant sacrificed, from which they took meat for themselves and their families. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 13 11 luf7 figs-activepassive 0 the blood of the animals killed for sins is brought by the high priest into the holy place This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the high priest brings into the holy place the blood of the animals that the priests killed for sins" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 13 11 iv19 figs-activepassive 0 while their bodies are burned This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "while the priests burn the animals' bodies" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 13 11 f7nb 0 outside the camp "away from where the people lived" HEB 13 12 x48h 0 Connecting Statement: There is a comparison here between Jesus' sacrifice and the tabernacle sacrifices of the Old Testament. HEB 13 12 fw9g 0 So "In the same way" or "Because the bodies of the sacrifices were burned outside the camp" ([Hebrews 13:11](../13/11.md)) HEB 13 12 eq6t figs-metonymy 0 outside the city gate This stands for "outside the city." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 13 13 zf8v figs-metaphor 0 Let us therefore go to him outside the camp Obeying Jesus is spoken of as if a person were leaving the camp to go out where Jesus is. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 13 13 h3j4 figs-metaphor 0 bearing his shame Disgrace is spoken of as if it were an object that had to be carried in one's hands or on one's back. Alternate translation: "while allowing others to insult us just like people insulted him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 13 14 u2wn 0 looking for "waiting for" HEB 13 15 zfy9 figs-metaphor 0 sacrifices of praise Praise is spoken of as if it were a sacrifice of animals or incense. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 13 15 b4p1 figs-metaphor 0 praise that is the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name Praise is spoken of as if it were fruit produced by the lips of people. Alternate translation: "praise that is produced by the lips of those who acknowledge his name" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 13 15 zr2d figs-synecdoche 0 lips that acknowledge his name Here "lips" represents people who speak. Alternate translation: "the lips of those who acknowledge his name" or "those who acknowledge his name" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]]) HEB 13 15 v52x figs-metonymy 0 his name A person's name represents that person. Alternate translation: "him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 13 16 ma8c figs-litotes 0 Let us not forget doing good and helping one another This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "Let us always remember to do good and help others" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]]) HEB 13 16 kp76 figs-metaphor 0 with such sacrifices Doing good and helping others is spoken of as if they were sacrifices on an altar. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 13 17 n5e8 figs-metaphor 0 keep watch over your souls The believers' souls, that is, the believers' spiritual well-being, are spoken of as if they were objects or animals that guards could keep watch over. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 13 17 z2yp figs-metonymy 0 not with groaning Here "groaning" stands for sadness or grief. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 13 18 d5hf 0 Connecting Statement: The author closes with a blessing and greetings. HEB 13 18 xmh1 figs-exclusive 0 Pray for us Here "us" refers to the author and his companions, but not to the readers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]) HEB 13 18 n6gb figs-metaphor 0 we are persuaded that we have a clean conscience Here "clean" stands for being free from guilt. Alternate translation: "we are certain that we have no guilt" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 13 19 cg4l figs-activepassive 0 that I will be returned to you sooner This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that God will quickly remove the things that stop my coming to you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 13 20 n66e 0 Now This marks a new section of the letter. Here the author praises God and gives a final prayer for his readers. HEB 13 20 d8yq 0 brought back from the dead the great shepherd of the sheep, our Lord Jesus "raised the great shepherd of the sheep, our Lord Jesus, to life" HEB 13 20 k6n6 0 from the dead From among all those who have died. This expression describes all dead people together in the underworld. To raise someone from among them speaks of causing that person to become alive again. HEB 13 20 gn9w figs-metaphor 0 the great shepherd of the sheep Christ in his role of leader and protector of those who believe in him is spoken of as if he were a shepherd of sheep. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) HEB 13 20 qxb8 figs-metonymy 0 by the blood of the eternal covenant Here "blood" stands for the death of Jesus, which is the basis for the covenant that will last forever between God and all believers in Christ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 13 21 qj79 0 equip you with everything good to do his will "give you every good thing you need in order to do his will "make you capable of doing every good thing according to his will" HEB 13 21 r3mi figs-inclusive 0 working in us The word "us" refers to the author and the readers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]]) HEB 13 21 u6iq 0 to whom be the glory forever "whom all people will praise forever" HEB 13 22 wa9r 0 Now This marks a new section of the letter. Here the author gives his final comments to his audience. HEB 13 22 b27j figs-gendernotations 0 brothers This refers to all the believers to whom he is writing whether male or female. Alternate translation: "fellow believers" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) HEB 13 22 d5e6 0 bear with the word of encouragement "patiently consider what I have just written to encourage you" HEB 13 22 l8b3 figs-metonymy 0 the word of encouragement Here "word" stands for a message. Alternate translation: "the encouraging message" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) HEB 13 23 w3m2 figs-activepassive 0 has been set free This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "is no longer in prison" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]]) HEB 13 24 r7kn 0 Those from Italy greet you Possible meanings are 1) the author is not in Italy, but there is a group of believers with him who have come from Italy or 2) the author is in Italy while writing this letter. HEB 13 24 kk9c translate-names 0 Italy This is the name of a region at that time. Rome was the then-capital city of Italy. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])