And again, when he bringeth in the firstbegotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him.
HEBREWS 1:6KJVWhat does Hebrews 1:6 mean?
Hebrews 1:6 says that when God brings his "firstbegotten" (meaning Jesus, his unique Son) into the world, God commands all his angels to worship him. This shows Jesus' special status above all angels, as someone worthy of worship from even the highest spiritual beings.
The writer of Hebrews is explaining to Jewish Christians that Jesus is not just another angel or messenger, but someone far greater. By quoting God's command for the angels to worship Jesus, the author highlights Jesus' divine authority and unique relationship with God. This verse is part of a larger argument in Hebrews 1 showing that Jesus is superior to angels in every way.
The Greek behind Hebrews 1:6
- "firstbegotten" (πρωτότοκος, prōtotokos): This Greek word means "firstborn" or "first in rank." It emphasizes Jesus' unique position as God's Son, not just in time but in status and authority.
- "worship" (προσκυνέω, proskuneō): This word means to bow down or show reverence, often used for divine worship. The use of this word shows that Jesus is to be honored in a way that is reserved for God alone.
- "angels" (ἄγγελοι, angeloi): The Greek word for "messengers," referring here to the spiritual beings who serve God. Their worship of Jesus underlines his superiority over all heavenly beings.
Why Hebrews 1:6 matters
- This verse clears up any confusion about Jesus being just an angel or a created being by showing that even angels are commanded to worship him.
- Hebrews 1:6 highlights the theme of the whole chapter: Jesus' unique and exalted status as God's Son, above all other spiritual beings.
- The verse connects to Old Testament passages about God's promises and shows how the early Christians understood Jesus' role in God's plan.