King James Version

What Does Hebrews 2:16 Mean?

Hebrews 2:16 in the King James Version says “For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham. took not: Gr. taketh not hol...” — study this verse from Hebrews chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham. took not: Gr. taketh not hold of angels, but of the seed of Abraham he taketh hold”

Hebrews 2:16 · KJV

Context

14

Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;

15

And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.

16

For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham. took not: Gr. taketh not hold of angels, but of the seed of Abraham he taketh hold

17

Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.

18

For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.

Read Hebrews 2 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Christ 'takes hold of' (Greek 'epilambanetai' - to take by the hand, help) Abraham's seed, not angels. This emphasizes the specific scope of Christ's saving work - He came to redeem elect humanity, the spiritual descendants of Abraham (Galatians 3:29). Reformed particular redemption (limited atonement) finds support here: Christ's saving work has a definite scope and purpose, effectively redeeming those the Father gave Him.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The reference to Abraham's seed would resonate with Jewish Christians, affirming continuity between Old and New Covenant peoples of God. This counters any notion that Christ's work was entirely novel or disconnected from God's covenant promises to Israel.

Reflection Questions

  1. What comfort does the specificity of Christ's saving work provide (that He came for you specifically)?
  2. How does being identified as Abraham's seed connect you to God's covenant promises throughout history?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 9 words
οὐ1 of 9

“not”

G3756

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

γὰρ2 of 9

“For”

G1063

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

δήπου3 of 9

“verily”

G1222

a particle of asseveration; indeed doubtless

ἀγγέλων4 of 9

“him the nature of angels”

G32

compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor

ἐπιλαμβάνεται5 of 9

“he took”

G1949

to seize (for help, injury, attainment, or any other purpose; literally or figuratively)

ἀλλὰ6 of 9

“but”

G235

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

σπέρματος7 of 9

“him the seed”

G4690

something sown, i.e., seed (including the male "sperm"); by implication, offspring; specially, a remnant (figuratively, as if kept over for planting)

Ἀβραὰμ8 of 9

“of Abraham”

G11

abraham, the hebrew patriarch

ἐπιλαμβάνεται9 of 9

“he took”

G1949

to seize (for help, injury, attainment, or any other purpose; literally or figuratively)

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 2:16 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 2:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Galatians 3:29Romans 4:16-25Galatians 3:16Genesis 22:18Romans 2:25Hebrews 6:16

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