King James Version
Hebrews 3:8 in the King James Version says “Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness:” — study this verse from Hebrews chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness:”
Hebrews 3:8 · KJV
But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end.
Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice,
Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness:
When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my works forty years.
Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do alway err in their heart; and they have not known my ways.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“not”
G3361(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
“hearts”
G2588the heart, i.e., (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle
“in”
G2596(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
“the day”
G2250day, i.e., (literally) the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole 24 hours (but several days were usually reckoned by the jews as inclusive of
“of temptation”
G3986a putting to proof (by experiment (of good), experience (of evil), solicitation, discipline or provocation); by implication, adversity
“the wilderness”
G2048lonesome, i.e., (by implication) waste (usually as a noun, g5561 being implied)
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.
Hebrews 3:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Hebrews 3:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge