For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer.

HEBREWS 8:3KJV
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Hebrews 8:3 (KJV)

What does Hebrews 8:3 mean?

Hebrews 8:3 explains that every high priest is appointed to offer gifts and sacrifices, so it is necessary for this particular high priest (referring to Jesus) to also have something to offer. The verse highlights the essential role of a high priest and sets up the idea that Jesus fulfills this role in a unique way.

The writer of Hebrews is addressing Jewish Christians, comparing Jesus to the traditional high priests of the Old Testament. The verse points out that the job of a high priest always involves bringing offerings to God on behalf of the people. By saying "this man" must also have something to offer, the writer is emphasizing that Jesus, too, acts as a true high priest, but the nature of his offering is different from those before him.

The Greek behind Hebrews 8:3

  • ἀρχιερεύς (archiereus, G749): This word means "high priest." Its use here makes clear that the discussion is about the highest religious office in Jewish worship, responsible for making offerings to God.
  • προσφέρειν (prospherein, G4374): This verb means "to offer" or "to bring forward." It stresses the active duty of the high priest to present gifts and sacrifices, not just hold a title.
  • ἀνάγκη (anankē, G316): This word means "necessity" or "must." The verse uses it to show that it is not optional for a high priest to offer something; it is a required part of the role.
  • δῶρα (dōra, G1435) and θυσίας (thysias, G2378): These words mean "gifts" and "sacrifices." The pairing shows that the high priest's work involves both voluntary offerings (gifts) and required sacrifices, covering the full range of worship practices.

Why Hebrews 8:3 matters

  • Hebrews 8:3 clarifies that Jesus’ priesthood is not just a title but involves real action—he, too, must offer something, just as every other high priest did.
  • The verse prepares the reader for the argument that Jesus’ offering is different and greater than the animal sacrifices of the old system, leading into the next verses.
  • By stressing the necessity of an offering, Hebrews 8:3 connects Jesus’ work to the established pattern of worship, making it easier for Jewish readers to understand how Jesus fulfills and surpasses the old covenant.

Where else these words appear

“necessity” Greek G316 · used in 8 verses

  • Acts 10:24 And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends.
  • 1 Corinthians 12:22 Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:
  • Philippians 1:24 Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.

“wherefore” Greek G3606 · used in 15 verses

  • Matthew 12:44 Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished.
  • Luke 11:24 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out.
  • Hebrews 3:1 Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;

“gifts” Greek G1435 · used in 17 verses

  • Matthew 2:11 And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.
  • Matthew 23:18 And, Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whosoever sweareth by the gift that is upon it, he is guilty.
  • Ephesians 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

“ordained” Greek G2525 · used in 21 verses

  • Matthew 24:45 Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season?
  • Luke 12:44 Of a truth I say unto you, that he will make him ruler over all that he hath.
  • Titus 1:5 For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee: