What does Hebrews 2:6 mean?

But one in a certain place testified, saying, What is man, that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man, that thou visitest him? Hebrews 2:6

Explanation

Hebrews 2:6 poses a reflective question about the nature of humanity and God’s regard for humans. Despite its brevity, the verse conveys a profound humility and amazement at the divine attention bestowed upon mankind. On a literal level, the author of Hebrews is citing Psalm 8:4-6, a passage where King David expresses wonder that the Creator of the universe is mindful of human beings and cares for them. The deeper meaning delves into theological pondering about why God, being so great and powerful, would pay special attention to humanity, which is seemingly insignificant in the grand cosmos. It challenges readers to think about their own place in creation and God’s plan.

Historical Context

The Book of Hebrews is an epistle in the New Testament traditionally attributed to Paul the Apostle, but its true authorship remains a topic of debate among scholars. It was written to a group of early Christians, possibly of Jewish ancestry, living in a Hellenistic culture in the 1st century AD. This context suggests influences of both Jewish and Greco-Roman thought. The quotation of Psalm 8 is a common rabbinic method called “midrash”, where a biblical text is expounded upon to deliver a message to the contemporary audience.

Theological Insights

Different denominations and theologians offer various interpretations of Hebrews 2:6. Some see it as emphasizing the dignity of human beings, as God has a specific care and plan for them despite their smallness in the universe. Others may highlight the incarnation of Christ (the “son of man” motif) as the ultimate expression of God’s mindfulness of humanity—God becoming man in the person of Jesus. A Calvinist perspective might accentuate the sovereignty of God, suggesting that His attention to mankind is a function of His grace alone, not human merit.

Practical Applications

Hebrews 2:6 can be applied in daily life as a source of humility and gratitude. It serves as a reminder that each person, no matter how seemingly insignificant, has value and importance in the eyes of God. This understanding can lead to a more humble approach to life and an appreciation for the dignity of others. Furthermore, it can inspire people to reflect on their purpose and to live mindful of their place in God’s creation.

Cross-References

• Psalm 8:4-6: “What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.”
• Matthew 10:30-31: “But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.”
• Job 7:17-18: “What is man, that thou shouldest magnify him? and that thou shouldest set thine heart upon him?”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word for “man” is “ἄνθρωπος” (anthropos), meaning human or humankind. This term emphasizes the collective human race rather than any individual. The phrase “son of man” is “υἱὸς ἀνθρώπου” (huios anthrōpou), a term that can connote humanity in general or be a messianic title, as used by Jesus in the Gospels. The word for “mindful” is “μιμνῄσκῃ” (mimnēskē) which means to remember or to be aware of, implying a continuous or active consideration.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The ancient world was rife with myths about gods and their interactions with humanity. For example, in Greek mythology, the gods often intervened in human affairs, but usually due to self-interest or whims. In contrast, the Hebrews 2:6 perspective shows a God who is mindful and caring of humanity without self-serving reasons, which was a starkly different concept at the time.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, this verse is intriguing as it juxtaposes the smallness of humanity in the vastness of the cosmos with the idea of significance and individual worth. While science can highlight the immensity of the universe and the relatively tiny place humans occupy within it, this verse speaks to a philosophical question that science alone cannot answer: Why does humanity matter?

Commentaries

Commentaries on Hebrews 2:6 offer varied interpretations. Various scholars point out that its use of Psalm 8 highlights God’s care for and exaltation of humanity within the created order. Bible commentators such as Matthew Henry emphasize that it speaks to the honor God has placed on mankind, despite humans being inferior to angels. Other scholars, like F.F. Bruce, delve into its Christological implications, viewing the “son of man” as a reference to Jesus and His mission to bridge the gap between the divine and the human.