What does Hebrews 11:9 mean?

Explanation

Hebrews 11:9 speaks about the patriarch Abraham and his life of faith.

"By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country" suggests that Abraham lived as a foreigner in Canaan, a land God promised to give to his descendants. He did so with complete trust in God's promise, even though he did not see its fulfillment during his lifetime.

The phrase "dwelling in tabernacles" means living in temporary shelters or tents, indicating a nomadic lifestyle and the temporary nature of life on earth.

The verse also includes "with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise," pointing to the continuation of faith in God's promise through Abraham’s descendants.

Historical Context

Hebrews 11 is often referred to as the "faith chapter" of the Bible.

It was written to a group of Jewish Christians in the first century AD who might have been considering abandoning their Christian faith to return to Judaism due to persecution or hardships.

The author uses the faith of the Old Testament patriarchs and prophets as examples to encourage the audience to persevere in their own faith.

Abraham's journey to Canaan is recorded initially in the book of Genesis and epitomizes a life lived in faith, obedience, and hope in God's promises.

Theological Insights

Different Christian traditions have various theological insights regarding this passage.

• Evangelical Perspective: This passage is often seen as an example of a life lived by faith, not by sight, as Abraham trusted in God's promise despite not seeing its immediate fulfillment.
• Reformed Theology: Emphasis is placed on the sovereignty of God's promises.

It is held that God's plan will come to fruition, as shown in the intergenerational faith of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

• Catholic Understandings: Along with a similar understanding of faith, there is a recognition of the communion of saints, as this verse shows the unity of the faithful across generations.

Practical Applications

In everyday life, Hebrews 11:9 encourages believers to:

• Embrace a detached attitude towards worldly possessions and temporary settings, trusting in God's provision and plan.
• Live by faith, obtaining strength from the examples of the faithful who have gone before us.
• Persevere in our commitments and promises, looking to the future fulfillment of God's promises.

Cross-References

• Genesis 12:1-4 – The Lord calls Abram to go to Canaan, a land He promises to show him.
• Genesis 17:8 – God promises Abraham the land of Canaan for his offspring.
• Hebrews 11:1 – A definition of faith as assurance of things hoped for and conviction of things not seen.
• 2 Corinthians 5:1 – Paul speaks of an eternal house in heaven, not made by human hands, contrasting our temporary dwelling on earth.

Language Study

The key words in Greek in this verse include:

• "sojourned" (παρῴκησεν - paroikesen): to live as a stranger or foreigner.
• "land of promise" (γῆς ἐπαγγελίας - ges epangelias): the land that was promised by God.
• "dwelling in tabernacles" (σκηναῖς κατοικήσας - skenais katoikesas): living in tents, signifying a temporary residence.
• "heirs" (κληρονόμοι - kleronomoi): those who receive or are designated to receive an inheritance.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

This concept of sojourning in a promised land could be compared to other ancient Oriental motifs. For instance, Gilgamesh seeks a land of immortality.

However, this verse is unique in its monotheistic perspective and the idea that the sojourning is tied to a divine promise to an elect individual and his descendants, rather than an individual heroic quest.

Scientific Perspectives

While this verse does not directly intersect with scientific ideas, it indirectly speaks to the concept of human migration and nomadic cultures, which can be studied through anthropology and archaeology. The behaviors of ancient nomadic tribes like Abraham's are a topic of interest in these fields.

Commentaries

Commentators provide various insights on this verse:

• Matthew Henry: He views Abraham’s life of faith as a demonstration of his obedience to God's calling, even in uncertain circumstances.
• John Calvin: Notes the patience of Abraham in waiting for the fulfillment of God’s promise.
• William Barclay: Points to Abraham's sojourning as an example of what it means to be in the world but not of it, and the believer's status as a pilgrim on the earth.
• **F.F.

Bruce:** Discusses the faith of Abraham as foundational for understanding Christian faith, which involves trusting in the unseen realities promised by God.