What does Hebrews 2:8 mean?

Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him. Hebrews 2:8

Explanation

Hebrews 2:8 speaks of the dominion granted by God to humanity. The verse references a certain “he” who has everything subjected to him. The pronoun “he” in this context refers to mankind, as is made clear in the preceding verses which quote Psalm 8, a passage discussing the honor and glory God has given to humans over His creation. This verse emphasizes that, in God’s plan, humans are given authority over the created world. However, there is a tension between the ideal state of total dominion and the present reality in which not everything is seen to be under human control. It suggests that there is an already-not-yet tension in the Christian understanding of God’s kingdom: already established by Christ, but not yet fully realized in the world as we experience it.

Historical Context

Hebrews is an epistle in the New Testament that was written to a group of early Christians. Its exact authorship and date of writing are uncertain, though it is often attributed to Paul or one of his associates and is typically dated to the first century AD. The cultural and historical context of the time includes Roman governance and Jewish religious practices. This verse, and the book in general, reflects Jewish interpretive methods, applies them to Christian doctrine, and thereby portrays Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament promises and prophecies. The recipients likely faced persecution and doubt, and Hebrews seeks to bolster their faith by elucidating the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse can be understood through the lens of Christ’s redemptive work. While humanity was given dominion over creation, the Fall (as depicted in Genesis) led to a fracture of that original intention. From a Christian standpoint, Jesus, being both fully God and fully man, restores that intended dominion. The verse can be seen to simultaneously affirm the inherent dignity and intended role for mankind, while acknowledging that fulfillment of this purpose is found in the person and work of Jesus Christ.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, this verse reminds believers of their responsibility towards creation. It suggests an ethic of stewardship, where humans, reflecting God’s sovereignty, are called to care for and manage the world responsibly. It also provides hope and purpose to Christians, as it points to a future where all things will be made right under Christ’s rule, encouraging them to work towards that future in their daily lives.

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. Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet.”
• Ephesians 1:22 – “And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church.”
• 1 Corinthians 15:27 – “For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him.”

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text of Hebrews 2:8 include:

• “πάντα” (panta) meaning “all things” or “everything.”
• “ὑποτάσσω” (hypotasso) translated as “put in subjection” or “submit.”
• “ὑποκάτω” (hypokato) meaning “under.”
• “πόδες” (podes) referring to “feet,” an idiomatic expression for dominion or control. These terms indicate a comprehensive subjugation of the world under humanity as ordained by God.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

This notion of humankind being given dominion over creation is unique in the sense that it carries a burden of stewardship within a monotheistic framework, as opposed to exploiting the earth for one’s own whims. Compared to ancient myths where demigods or heroes might conquer the earth through might, Hebrews reflects a Judeo-Christian ethic that combines authority with responsibility, under a single benevolent God.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science investigates humanity’s role and influence on the environment without the theological implications of “dominion.” While the Bible suggests a divinely ordained authority, science focuses on understanding how human actions affect ecosystems and the climate. From this perspective, discussions regarding stewardship, sustainability, and environmental responsibility echo the call for wise management suggested by Hebrews 2:8.

Commentaries

Several experts have offered their interpretations of Hebrews 2:8:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes the glory given to man in being made a little lower than the angels and yet having dominion over creation, a glory that is especially realized in Christ.
• The Expositor’s Greek Testament notes the tension between the already and the not yet, pointing out that the complete subjection of all things is a future hope not yet fully seen.
• The Pulpit Commentary discusses the distinction between the ideal state of man as intended by God and the current state of the world, subject to sin and death, awaiting the final fulfillment of God’s promise in Christ.