King James Version
What Does Hebrews 3:8 Mean?
“Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness:”
Context
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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.
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Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice,
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Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness:
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When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my works forty years.
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Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do alway err in their heart; and they have not known my ways.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(8) **In the day of temptation.**—Better, *like the day of the temptation.* As in the LXX., so here, two words which in the Hebrew are proper names (“as at Meribah, and as in the day of Massah”) are translated according to their intrinsic meaning. (For the former see Exodus 17:7; Numbers 20:13; and for the latter Exodus 17:7.) We may believe that these places are here chosen for reference partly on account of their significant names; but it is noteworthy that the rebellions recorded in the names belonged to the beginning and to the close of the years of wandering.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 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.
Cross-References
Verses related to Hebrews 3:8
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge