King James Version

What Does Hebrews 1:12 Mean?

Hebrews 1:12 in the King James Version says “And as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail... — study this verse from Hebrews chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail.

Hebrews 1:12 · KJV


Context

10

And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands:

11

They shall perish; but thou remainest; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment;

12

And as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail.

13

But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool ?

14

Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The metaphor of changing garments illustrates God's sovereign control over creation - He can remake it at will, yet He Himself remains unchanged. The Greek 'helikseis' (roll up) suggests a scroll being rolled, possibly alluding to Isaiah 34:4. The doctrine of divine immutability is crucial to Reformed theology: God's promises, purposes, and covenant faithfulness cannot change, providing assurance to believers.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

This imagery would resonate with readers familiar with the apocalyptic literature that depicted cosmic transformation. The New Testament elsewhere speaks of new heavens and new earth (2 Peter 3:13, Revelation 21:1).

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's unchangeableness provide stability in your spiritual life?
  2. What does this verse teach about the relationship between Creator and creation?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 18 words
καὶ1 of 18

And

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ὡσεὶ2 of 18

as

G5616

as if

περιβόλαιον3 of 18

a vesture

G4018

something thrown around one, i.e., a mantle, veil

ἑλίξεις4 of 18

shalt thou fold

G1667

to coil or wrap

αὐτὸς5 of 18

the same

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

καὶ6 of 18

And

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἀλλαγήσονται·7 of 18

they shall be changed

G236

to make different

σὺ8 of 18

thou

G4771

thou

δὲ9 of 18

but

G1161

but, and, etc

10 of 18
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

αὐτὸς11 of 18

the same

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

εἶ12 of 18

art

G1488

thou art

καὶ13 of 18

And

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

τὰ14 of 18
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἔτη15 of 18

years

G2094

a year

σου16 of 18

thy

G4675

of thee, thy

οὐκ17 of 18

not

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

ἐκλείψουσιν18 of 18

fail

G1587

to omit, i.e., (by implication) cease (die)


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Hebrews. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Hebrews 1:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Hebrews 1:12 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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