What does Hebrews 6:2 mean?

Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. Hebrews 6:2

Explanation

The verse Hebrews 6:2 is a continuation of the thought started in verse 1, where the writer of Hebrews speaks about leaving the “principles of the doctrine of Christ” and going on to perfection. In this specific verse, the author lists elements that are considered foundational to the Christian faith: teachings about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.

The word “baptisms” in this context is plural, which may imply the various washings and purifications found in the Old Testament as well as in New Testament baptism. “Laying on of hands” may refer to various practices including blessings, healing, receiving the Holy Spirit, and ordination. “Resurrection of the dead” is a fundamental Christian belief that those who have died will be raised to life again. “Eternal judgment” speaks to the final judgment that will take place at the end of time, according to Christian eschatology.

Historical Context

The Book of Hebrews was written to a group of Jewish Christians who were knowledgeable in the Old Testament scriptures and traditions. It is a complex work that seeks to demonstrate that Jesus Christ is superior to the old covenant, and it does this by connecting Old Testament traditions to the teachings of Christ. The author of Hebrews calls on the readers to advance beyond the elementary teachings of Christianity into a more mature understanding and practice of their faith.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse represents a call to growth and progression in the Christian life. The debated question among scholars is whether the items listed are all Christian teachings or a mixture of Christian and Jewish practices. Depending on the perspective:

1. Traditional Protestant theology often views this as a progression from Old Testament rituals to their fulfilment in New Testament doctrine.
2. Catholic and Orthodox theology might emphasize the sacramental nature of some of these elements, such as the laying on of hands during ordination.
3. Some modern theologians question whether this list was intended to be definitive or merely illustrative of the kinds of foundational teachings early Christians would be familiar with.

Practical Applications

Applying Hebrews 6:2 in daily life involves moving beyond the basic fundamentals of faith and deepening one’s spiritual maturity. For Christians, this might mean:

1. Actively seeking to understand and practice their faith in more substantial ways.
2. Expanding their knowledge and experience of Christian practices, such as different types of prayer or acts of service.
3. Sharing their faith with others in a manner that is grounded, yet mature and informed.

Cross-References

• Matthew 28:19 – “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:”
• Acts 8:17 – “Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.”
• 1 Corinthians 15:52 – “In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.”
• Revelation 20:12 – “And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.”

Language Study

Key terms in the original Greek are:

• “Baptismōn” (βαπτισμῶν): Often refers to baptisms or washings; plural form suggests various rites.
• “Epidoseōs” (ἐπιθέσεως): Implies the act of laying on of hands, a common practice for blessing or transferring authority.
• “Anastaseōs” (ἀναστάσεως): Literally means “rising up” or “resurrection.”
• “Krimatos” (κρίματος): Judgment, indicating a process of evaluation or a verdict.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient religions, there are various rituals of washings and purifications comparable to baptisms. The laying on of hands as a means of invoking blessing or power is also present in various traditions. Belief in some form of life after death or judgment can be found across many ancient mythologies and religions. However, the specific way these concepts are tied together in Hebrews reflects a distinctly Judeo-Christian worldview.

Scientific Perspectives

The concepts mentioned in Hebrews 6:2, such as resurrection and eternal judgment, are matters of faith and not subject to empirical scientific scrutiny. However, the study of religious experiences and beliefs is a legitimate area of research in psychology, sociology, and anthropology. These sciences can provide insight into how such beliefs shape human behavior and societies.

Commentaries

Commentators offer various interpretations of Hebrews 6:2:

1. Matthew Henry’s Commentary suggests that these doctrines are foundational and should be built upon, not continually laid anew.
2. The Expositor’s Greek Testament posits that the concepts listed are deliberately elementary and that the reader is encouraged to move towards maturity.
3. The Pulpit Commentary discusses the transition from Jewish to Christian teachings, seeing these elements as stepping stones in the spiritual development of believers.

Different commentators emphasize the need for growth in understanding and living out the faith described in these foundational principles.