Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.

HEBREWS 1:4KJV
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Hebrews 1:4 (KJV)

What does Hebrews 1:4 mean?

Hebrews 1:4 says that Jesus has been made far greater than the angels, and that he has received a name and status that is much more excellent than theirs. This verse highlights the unique position and honor given to Jesus, setting him apart from all angelic beings.

The writer of Hebrews is addressing Jewish Christians who may have held angels in high regard, reminding them that Jesus is superior even to these powerful spiritual beings. The verse uses the idea of inheritance to show that Jesus' greatness and his "name"—meaning his authority and reputation—are not just given, but rightfully his. This sets the stage for the rest of the chapter, which explains why Jesus is worthy of such honor.

The Greek behind Hebrews 1:4

  • ἀγγέλων (angelōn; "angels"): This word refers to spiritual messengers, often seen as powerful and holy. The comparison shows that Jesus is not just another heavenly being but stands above them.
  • κρείττων (kreittōn; "better"): This word means "superior" or "greater." The Greek here emphasizes a real difference in rank, not just a small improvement.
  • κληρονομέω (klēronomeō; "obtained by inheritance"): This word means to receive something as an heir. It points to Jesus' unique relationship with God, not just an earned status but one that is his by right.
  • ὄνομα (onoma; "name"): In the ancient world, "name" often meant authority, reputation, or identity. The verse is saying Jesus' authority and identity are above any angel.

Why Hebrews 1:4 matters

  • This verse corrects any idea that Jesus is simply one among many heavenly beings; it insists on his unique and superior status.
  • By focusing on inheritance and "name," Hebrews 1:4 connects Jesus' greatness to his relationship with God, not just his actions or miracles.
  • The verse sets up the argument of the whole chapter, which uses Old Testament passages to show that Jesus fulfills promises and roles that no angel ever could.

Where else these words appear

“excellent” Greek G1313 · used in 4 verses

  • Romans 12:6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;
  • Hebrews 8:6 But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises.
  • Hebrews 9:10 Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.

“than” Greek G2909 · used in 17 verses

  • 1 Corinthians 7:9 But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn.
  • Hebrews 7:19 For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God.
  • Hebrews 11:16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.

“obtained” Greek G2816 · used in 17 verses

  • Matthew 5:5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
  • Luke 18:18 And a certain ruler asked him, saying, Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?
  • Galatians 5:21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

“much” Greek G5118 · used in 19 verses

  • Matthew 8:10 When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.
  • John 14:9 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?
  • Hebrews 7:22 By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament.