King James Version

What Does Hebrews 4:13 Mean?

Hebrews 4:13 in the King James Version says “Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of hi... — study this verse from Hebrews chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

Hebrews 4:13 · KJV


Context

11

Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief. unbelief: or, disobedience

12

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

13

Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

14

Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.

15

For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This verse grounds the warning in divine omniscience. Nothing is 'hidden' (Greek 'aphanes') or 'uncovered' (Greek 'gumnos' - naked) from God's sight. The phrase 'to whom we must give account' (Greek 'logos' - word/account) emphasizes accountability. Reformed theology's emphasis on God's sovereignty includes His comprehensive knowledge - He sees not just actions but thoughts and motives, making evasion impossible. This should produce both holy fear and worship.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Jewish thought emphasized God's omniscience (Psalm 139, Proverbs 15:3). The author applies this to motivate perseverance - you cannot deceive God about the state of your heart, so genuine faith is essential.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's complete knowledge of you affect your prayer life and self-examination?
  2. What comfort and what challenge does divine omniscience provide?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 20 words
καὶ1 of 20

Neither

G2532

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

οὐκ2 of 20
G3756

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

ἔστιν3 of 20

is there

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

κτίσις4 of 20

any creature

G2937

original formation (properly, the act; by implication, the thing, literally or figuratively)

ἀφανὴς5 of 20

that is not manifest

G852

non-apparent

ἐνώπιον6 of 20

sight

G1799

in the face of (literally or figuratively)

αὐτοῦ7 of 20

in his

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

πάντα8 of 20

all things

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

δὲ9 of 20

but

G1161

but, and, etc

γυμνὰ10 of 20

are naked

G1131

nude (absolute or relative, literal or figurative)

καὶ11 of 20

Neither

G2532

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

τετραχηλισμένα12 of 20

opened

G5136

to seize by the throat or neck, i.e., to expose the gullet of a victim for killing (generally, to lay bare)

τοῖς13 of 20
G3588

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

ὀφθαλμοῖς14 of 20

unto the eyes

G3788

the eye (literally or figuratively); by implication, vision; figuratively, envy (from the jealous side-glance)

αὐτοῦ15 of 20

in his

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

πρὸς16 of 20

with

G4314

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

ὃν17 of 20

whom

G3739

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

ἡμῖν18 of 20

we have

G2254

to (or for, with, by) us

19 of 20
G3588

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

λόγος20 of 20

to do

G3056

something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a


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 4:13 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 4:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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