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.

HEBREWS 11:16KJV
Know the Bible

Hebrews 11:16 (KJV)

What does Hebrews 11:16 mean?

Hebrews 11:16 says that the people of faith longed for something better than what they had on earth—a heavenly home—and because of this, God is proud to be known as their God and has prepared a city for them. This verse highlights the deep desire for a lasting, spiritual place with God, not just earthly blessings.

The writer of Hebrews is speaking to early Christians, reminding them of the faithful people from Israel’s history who looked beyond their present lives for something greater with God. The verse emphasizes that God honors those who trust Him for more than what this world offers, and He responds by preparing a place for them in His presence.

The Greek behind Hebrews 11:16

  • "ἐπιποθοῦσιν" (epipothousin, "desire"): This word means a strong longing or yearning, showing that the people mentioned are not just wishing but deeply craving something better.
  • "κρείττονα" (kreittona, "better"): This word points to something superior or more excellent, underlining that the "country" they seek is far greater than anything earthly.
  • "ἐπουράνιον" (epouranion, "heavenly"): This word means "belonging to heaven," clarifying that the "better country" is not physical land but a spiritual, eternal home.
  • "οὐκ ἐπαισχύνεται" (ouk epaischynetai, "is not ashamed"): This phrase means God is not embarrassed or reluctant to be associated with them, which is a strong way of saying He fully accepts and honors their faith.

Why Hebrews 11:16 matters

  • Hebrews 11:16 clears up the idea that faith is only about earthly rewards; it shows that real faith looks forward to something eternal and spiritual.
  • The verse emphasizes God’s positive response to faith—He is not just tolerant but proud to be called the God of those who trust Him.
  • This verse ties the whole chapter together by showing that the examples of faith in Hebrews 11 were always looking forward to something beyond this life, setting a pattern for all believers.

Where else these words appear

“desire” Greek G3713 · used in 3 verses

  • 1 Timothy 3:1 This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work.
  • 1 Timothy 6:10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

“is” Greek G1870 · used in 9 verses

  • Mark 8:38 Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.
  • Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
  • 2 Timothy 1:12 For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.

“better” 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 7:7 And without all contradiction the less is blessed of the better.
  • Hebrews 10:34 For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance.

“is” Greek G5123 · used in 17 verses

  • Matthew 27:46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?
  • Romans 9:8 That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed.
  • Hebrews 2:14 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;