King James Version

What Does Hebrews 2:1 Mean?

Hebrews 2:1 in the King James Version says “Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them ...” — study this verse from Hebrews chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. let: Gr. run out as leaking vessels”

Hebrews 2:1 · KJV

Context

1

Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. let: Gr. run out as leaking vessels

2

For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward;

3

How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him;

Read Hebrews 2 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The Greek 'prosechein' (pay attention) introduces the first of five warning passages in Hebrews. The maritime metaphor 'lest we drift away' (pararryomen) pictures a ship drifting from its mooring due to neglect. If the law given through angels demanded strict obedience, how much more the salvation declared by the Lord Himself? This establishes a 'lesser to greater' argument central to Hebrews.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Jewish tradition (reflected in Acts 7:53, Galatians 3:19) held that angels mediated the Mosaic law at Sinai. First-century Jewish Christians faced pressure to abandon Christianity and return to Judaism, making this warning particularly urgent.

Reflection Questions

  1. In what areas of your spiritual life might you be drifting rather than actively pressing forward?
  2. How does the superiority of Christ's message increase our accountability to respond?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 10 words
Διὰ1 of 10

“Therefore”

G1223

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

τοῦτο2 of 10
G5124

that thing

δεῖ3 of 10

“ought”

G1163

also deon deh-on'; neuter active participle of the same; both used impersonally; it is (was, etc.) necessary (as binding)

περισσοτέρως4 of 10

“to give the more earnest”

G4056

more superabundantly

ἡμᾶς5 of 10

“we”

G2248

us

προσέχειν6 of 10

“heed”

G4337

(figuratively) to hold the mind (3563 implied) towards, i.e., pay attention to, be cautious about, apply oneself to, adhere to

τοῖς7 of 10
G3588

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

ἀκουσθεῖσιν8 of 10

“to the things which we have heard”

G191

to hear (in various senses)

μήποτε9 of 10

“lest”

G3379

not ever; also if (or lest) ever (or perhaps)

παραῤῥυῶμεν10 of 10

“we should let them slip”

G3901

to flow by, i.e., (figuratively) carelessly pass (miss)

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 2:1 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 2:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Luke 8:152 Peter 1:12-13Proverbs 7:1-2Proverbs 2:1-6Hebrews 1:1-2Deuteronomy 4:9

Test Your Knowledge

Hebrews 2 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterHebrews Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Hebrews 2 with CommentaryAll Hebrews ChaptersComplete Hebrews QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes