For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;

HEBREWS 7:26KJV
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Hebrews 7:26 (KJV)

What does Hebrews 7:26 mean?

Hebrews 7:26 describes Jesus as the kind of high priest people need—someone who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, and exalted above the heavens. The verse highlights how Jesus is uniquely qualified to represent people before God because of his perfect character and elevated status.

The writer of Hebrews is addressing Jewish Christians who are familiar with the Old Testament priesthood. The verse explains that, unlike other priests, Jesus is completely without fault and stands apart from human sinfulness. This sets up a contrast with earthly priests and emphasizes that Jesus’ priesthood is superior and perfectly suited to bring people to God.

The Greek behind Hebrews 7:26

  • ὅσιος (hosios, "holy"): This word means devoted to God in a way that is morally pure and pleasing to Him. It stresses Jesus’ complete dedication and moral integrity, not just ritual purity.
  • ἄκακος (akakos, "harmless"): This word is often understood as "innocent" or "without evil intent." It shows that Jesus does not act out of malice or wrongdoing, making him trustworthy as a mediator.
  • ἀμίαντος (amiantos, "undefiled"): This word means unstained or untainted, especially by sin or impurity. It underlines that Jesus has never been corrupted by sin, unlike other priests who had to offer sacrifices for their own faults.
  • κεχωρισμένος (kechōrismenos, "separate"): This word means set apart or distinct. Here, it highlights that Jesus is not just morally different but is also set apart from the community of sinners, emphasizing his unique role.

Why Hebrews 7:26 matters

  • Hebrews 7:26 clears up the misunderstanding that Jesus was just another religious leader or priest; the verse insists he is uniquely qualified in ways no one else is.
  • The verse emphasizes the complete moral purity and separation of Jesus from sin, which is crucial for understanding why his priesthood is effective and lasting.
  • By connecting Jesus’ character to his role as high priest, the verse ties together the argument of Hebrews that Jesus fulfills and surpasses the Old Testament priesthood, offering a better way to approach God.

Where else these words appear

“harmless” Greek G172 · used in 2 verses

  • Romans 16:18 For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.

“undefiled” Greek G283 · used in 4 verses

  • Hebrews 13:4 Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
  • James 1:27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.
  • 1 Peter 1:4 To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,

“became” Greek G4241 · used in 7 verses

  • Matthew 3:15 And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.
  • Ephesians 5:3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;
  • Titus 2:1 But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:

“holy” Greek G3741 · used in 8 verses

  • Acts 2:27 Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.
  • Acts 13:35 Wherefore he saith also in another psalm, Thou shalt not suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.
  • Titus 1:8 But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate;