King James Version

What Does Hebrews 11:36 Mean?

Hebrews 11:36 in the King James Version says “And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:” — study this verse from Hebrews chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:”

Hebrews 11:36 · KJV

Context

34

Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.

35

Women received their dead raised to life again : and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:

36

And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:

37

They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword : they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins ; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;

38

(Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: This continues cataloging faith's costly consequences. 'Cruel mockings' (empaigmōn, ἐμπαιγμῶν, 'ridicule' or 'jeering') describes psychological torture and public humiliation endured by prophets like Jeremiah, mocked by false prophets and faithless leaders (Jeremiah 20:7). 'Scourgings' (mastigōn, μαστίγων, 'whippings') references physical beatings like those Paul later experienced (2 Corinthians 11:24-25).

'Bonds and imprisonment' describes prolonged captivity like Jeremiah's (Jeremiah 37:15-21; 38:6), Joseph's false accusation and imprisonment (Genesis 39:20), and numerous prophets who suffered incarceration for proclaiming God's word. Faith doesn't exempt believers from suffering but often attracts it, as the world hates those who testify to truth (John 15:18-20).

These sufferings demonstrate that visible circumstances don't indicate God's favor or displeasure. The faithful often suffer precisely because of their faithfulness. This corrects prosperity theology's error that equates earthly comfort with divine approval. Instead, Scripture presents suffering as normative for faith (2 Timothy 3:12), refining character and proving genuine trust in God independent of circumstances. The same faith that accomplishes miracles (verses 33-34) also endures persecution (verses 35-38) without wavering.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Old Testament prophets frequently faced persecution for delivering unwelcome messages. Jeremiah was beaten, put in stocks (Jeremiah 20:2), imprisoned in dungeon (Jeremiah 37:15), and lowered into muddy cistern (Jeremiah 38:6). Tradition holds that Isaiah was sawn in two (referenced in verse 37) during Manasseh's reign. Micaiah was imprisoned for prophesying against Ahab (1 Kings 22:26-27). These prophets' suffering validated their messages' authenticity—false prophets prospered by telling people what they wanted to hear, while true prophets suffered for declaring uncomfortable truth. First-century readers facing persecution would find encouragement that their suffering placed them in continuity with faithful prophets.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this passage prepare you for potential mockery, rejection, or persecution for following Christ?
  2. What does the faithful endurance of imprisonment and suffering teach about measuring spiritual success by outcomes versus faithfulness?
  3. In what ways should you support and remember those currently imprisoned or persecuted for their faith?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 12 words
ἕτεροι1 of 12

“others”

G2087

(an-, the) other or different

δὲ2 of 12

“And”

G1161

but, and, etc

ἐμπαιγμῶν3 of 12

“of cruel mockings”

G1701

derision

καὶ4 of 12

“and”

G2532

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

μαστίγων5 of 12

“scourgings”

G3148

a whip (literally, the roman flagellum for criminals; figuratively, a disease)

πεῖραν6 of 12

“trial”

G3984

a test, i.e., attempt, experience

ἔλαβον7 of 12

“had”

G2983

while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))

ἔτι8 of 12

“moreover”

G2089

"yet," still (of time or degree)

δὲ9 of 12

“And”

G1161

but, and, etc

δεσμῶν10 of 12

“of bonds”

G1199

a band, i.e., ligament (of the body) or shackle (of a prisoner); figuratively, an impediment or disability

καὶ11 of 12

“and”

G2532

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

φυλακῆς·12 of 12

“imprisonment”

G5438

a guarding or (concretely, guard), the act, the person; figuratively, the place, the condition, or (specially), the time (as a division of day or nigh

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 11:36 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 11:36 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Jeremiah 20:2Genesis 39:20Jeremiah 37:15-212 Chronicles 30:10Matthew 23:34Jeremiah 32:2-3

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