Question 1

What does Hebrews 11:35 mean?

Accepted Answer

Hebrews 11:35 describes how some women saw their loved ones brought back to life, while others suffered torture and refused to escape it, hoping for a better resurrection. The verse highlights both miraculous deliverance and steadfast endurance among people of faith. The writer of Hebrews is speaking to Jewish Christians, reminding them of examples from Israel’s history to encourage faithfulness. The verse points to stories like those of Elijah and Elisha, where women received their dead back, and also to unnamed others who endured suffering instead of accepting release, believing in a greater future hope. This shows that faith can look like both receiving miracles and enduring hardship.

Question 2

The Greek behind Hebrews 11:35

Accepted Answer

ἀνάστασις (anastasis, G386) means "resurrection." The phrase "better resurrection" suggests that those who suffered were looking beyond a temporary return to life, hoping for a lasting, ultimate resurrection. βασανίζω (basanizō, G5178) is translated "tortured." This word often carries the sense of severe physical suffering, emphasizing the real cost some endured for their faith. ἀπολύτρωσις (apolutrōsis, G629) means "deliverance" or "release." The verse notes that some refused this deliverance, choosing to remain faithful even if it meant continued suffering.

Question 3

Why Hebrews 11:35 matters

Accepted Answer

Hebrews 11:35 clarifies that faith is not only about receiving blessings or miracles but also about enduring hardship with hope. The verse connects the experiences of Old Testament believers to the struggles of the early Christian audience, showing that suffering for faith is not new or meaningless. By mentioning both miraculous resurrections and steadfast endurance, the verse broadens the reader’s understanding of what living by faith can look like.

Hebrews 11:35 (KJV)