But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool?

HEBREWS 1:13KJV
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Hebrews 1:13 (KJV)

What does Hebrews 1:13 mean?

Hebrews 1:13 points out that God never told any angel to sit at His right hand or promised to make their enemies a footstool, highlighting a unique honor given only to the Son. The verse uses this contrast to show that Jesus holds a far higher position than any angel, emphasizing His authority and status.

In Hebrews 1:13, the writer is addressing Jewish Christians and quoting Psalm 110:1 to show that God’s promise to “sit on my right hand” was spoken to the Messiah, not to angels. The context is a comparison between Jesus and angels, making it clear that Jesus alone is given this special place of honor and power at God’s side.

The Greek behind Hebrews 1:13

  • ἐκ δεξιῶν (ek dexiōn, “on my right hand”): This phrase refers to the place of highest honor and authority next to God. In the ancient world, sitting at the right hand of a king meant sharing in his rule and power.
  • ὑποπόδιον (hypopodion, “footstool”): This word means something placed under the feet, symbolizing complete victory over enemies. The image is of enemies being so thoroughly defeated that they become a place to rest one’s feet.
  • ποτε (pote, “at any time”): This word stresses that at no point did God ever make such a statement to angels, underscoring the uniqueness of Jesus’ position.

Why Hebrews 1:13 matters

  • Hebrews 1:13 clears up any confusion about the status of angels compared to Jesus, showing that Jesus is uniquely honored in a way no angel ever was.
  • The verse highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy (Psalm 110:1) in Jesus, connecting Him directly to God’s promises about the Messiah.
  • This verse helps the reader see the main theme of Hebrews 1: Jesus’ superiority and divine authority, which is foundational for understanding the rest of the book.

Where else these words appear

“footstool” Greek G5286 · used in 9 verses

  • Matthew 5:35 Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King.
  • Mark 12:36 For David himself said by the Holy Ghost, The LORD said to my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool.
  • Acts 7:49 Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will ye build me? saith the Lord: or what is the place of my rest?

“time” Greek G4218 · used in 28 verses

  • Luke 22:32 But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.
  • Ephesians 2:2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:
  • 1 Thessalonians 2:5 For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness:

“enemies” Greek G2190 · used in 32 verses

  • Matthew 5:43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
  • Luke 6:27 But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
  • Romans 12:20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.

“hand” Greek G1188 · used in 53 verses

  • Matthew 5:29 And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.
  • Mark 16:5 And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted.
  • Romans 8:34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.