What does Hebrews 6:19 mean?

Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; Hebrews 6:19

Explanation

The verse Hebrews 6:19 speaks of hope as an “anchor of the soul” which is described as both “sure” and “stedfast.” This metaphorical anchor is said to enter into “that within the veil.” Literally, an anchor is a device used to prevent a ship from drifting due to wind or current, thus symbolizing stability and security. The “soul” here refers to the inner life and spiritual being of a person.

In a deeper sense, the “hope” mentioned is not a wishful thinking but a confident expectation grounded in the promises of God. This hope is portrayed as secure and dependable, connecting the believer to something beyond the immediate, tangible world. The reference to “that within the veil” alludes to the Most Holy Place in the Jewish temple, which was hidden by a curtain (or veil) and symbolized the presence of God. This suggests that the hope links believers directly to God’s presence, promising intimacy with the Divine and ultimate salvation.

Historical Context

The book of Hebrews was written to a group of Jewish Christians who were facing persecution and may have been considering a return to Judaism. The letter is dated between the late 60s and early 80s A.D. The concept of the veil refers to the Temple in Jerusalem, which had a veil separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. Only the high priest could go behind this veil, and that only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) to make a sacrifice for the sins of the people. By mentioning “that within the veil,” the author places the Christian hope in the very presence of God, a place previously deemed inaccessible for the common person.

Theological Insights

From the perspective of Christian Theology, this verse is rich in meaning. It ties the Old Testament understanding of the temple and the high priest’s role to the New Testament belief in Jesus Christ as our High Priest who has entered the heavenly holy place on our behalf. The hope that is “sure and stedfast” is seen as faith in Christ and his completed work on the cross. This hope is an assurance, unlike the repeated and annual sacrifices made by the earthly high priest.

Theologically, this also touches on the idea of the ‘veil’ being torn at the moment of Jesus’ death, as recorded in the Gospels, which symbolizes the opening of direct access to God for believers. It provides comfort and a strong encouragement to hold onto faith, even amidst trials and tribulations, with the reassurance of a divinely secured future.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Hebrews 6:19 can provide immense comfort and motivation to individuals facing uncertain and challenging circumstances. This assurance of hope can inspire steadfastness and perseverance. In daily life, believers can hold onto their faith, knowing that they are secured by a hope that is founded in divine promises. It encourages believers not to be swayed by the changing tides of life but to remain anchored in their spiritual convictions.

Cross-References

• Romans 5:5 – “And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.”
• Colossians 1:27 – “To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:”
• Matthew 27:51 – “And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent;”

Language Study

The Greek word for “hope” (ἐλπίς, elpis) used in the verse conveys not merely wishful thinking but a confident expectation about the future. “Anchor” (ἄγκυρα, ankura) conveys a firm and secure stability. “Sure” (ἀσφαλής, asphales) implies something that cannot be overthrown or fail, and “stedfast” (βέβαιος, bebaios) suggests firmness or reliability. “Entereth” (εἰσέρχομαι, eiserchomai) indicates a movement towards or into something, and “within the veil” (ἐσώτερος τοῦ καταπετάσματος, esōteros tou katapetasmatos) shows a sense of penetrating into the inner, most sacred area.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of hope as a secure and stabilizing force can be found across various religious traditions. In ancient mythology, the anchor was used as a symbol of safety associated with the sea gods such as Neptune and Fortuna. The idea of a sacred space secluded by a veil is not unique to Judaism, as many ancient religions had inner sanctums within their temples that housed deities or represented the divine presence.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse offers a spiritual metaphor, the concept of hope has been studied scientifically in fields like psychology. Hope can have profound effects on human behavior and mental health, influencing everything from coping strategies in times of stress to recovery from illnesses. The “anchor” metaphor in Hebrews 6:19 would align with psychological views on the stabilizing effect of hope on the mind and emotions.

Commentaries

Commentaries offer various interpretations of Hebrews 6:19. Matthew Henry’s commentary emphasizes the steadfast nature of hope in God’s promise as opposed to the uncertain promises of man. John Calvin comments on the uniqueness of Christian hope compared to worldly expectations. Modern Christian expositors like John MacArthur suggest that this hope is specifically found in Jesus Christ, who entered the Holy Place on behalf of humanity, and has secured our redemption.