What does Hebrews 13:4 mean?

Explanation

Hebrews 13:4 speaks to the honorability of marriage as an institution, and to the purity that should be maintained within it.

The verse divides its focus into two main areas: the positive reinforcement of marriage as honorable, and the warning against sexual immorality.

On the one hand, marriage is lifted up as a relationship that is to be respected by all.

The phrase "in all" suggests that marriage is universally honorable, across different cultures, societies, and times. The "bed undefiled" metaphorically refers to the sexual union between married partners, indicating that within the bounds of marriage, sexual relations are pure and good.

On the other hand, the verse issues a warning against sexual immorality, specifically targeting "whoremongers and adulterers." Whoremongers refers to those who engage in illicit sexual relations or who may be involved in prostitution, while adulterers are individuals who are unfaithful within their marriage.

The verse closes with the reminder that God will judge such actions, which implies that there is a divine moral standard in place regarding sexual behavior.

Historical Context

This verse is part of a letter written to the Hebrew Christians during the first century AD, a time when the early church was establishing its identity in a Greco-Roman world rife with different cultural practices and views on marriage and sexuality.

Pagan religions often had temple prostitution and sexual rites that were part of their worship practices.

Against this backdrop, the New Testament writers often emphasized the need for sexual purity and faithfulness within marriage, in part as a distinction from the surrounding culture's norms.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints interpret this verse in various ways.

A traditional view upholds the sanctity of marriage as ordained by God, and affirms the idea of monogamous, lifelong marriage as the ideal context for sexual relations.

It also emphasizes God's moral authority and His right to judge human actions, especially those that are seen as violating His commandments.

Some progressive theological perspectives may focus more on the importance of love, consent, and mutual respect in relationships, possibly giving a less literal interpretation to the warning against sexual immorality, while still recognizing the value placed on marriage in this text.

Practical Applications

The practical applications of Hebrews 13:4 are multifaceted.

For married individuals, it encourages the maintenance of fidelity and purity within the marriage relationship.

For singles, it promotes abstinence from sexual relations outside the covenant of marriage.

It also speaks to the need to view marriage highly and to support its honorability in society.

Beyond the sphere of personal conduct, it can influence societal values, championing the promotion of marriage-supportive policies and the discouraging of behaviors that undermine marriage.

Cross-References

• 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4: "For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;"
• Ephesians 5:3: "But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;"
• 1 Corinthians 6:18-20: "Flee fornication.

Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body."

Language Study

The key terms in the original Greek text of Hebrews 13:4 include:

• "Honourable" (τίμιος, timios), which implies something of great value or preciousness.
• "Undefiled" (ἀμίαντος, amiantos), meaning unsoiled, pure, or free from contamination.
• "Whoremongers" (πόρνοι, pornoi) specifically refers to male prostitutes or those who engage with prostitutes, but more generally to the sexually immoral.
• "Adulterers" (μοιχοί, moichoi) refers to those who are unfaithful in marriage.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparison to other ancient cultures, Hebrew culture as depicted in the Old Testament was unique in its strict monogamous understanding of marriage and its prohibitions against sexual immorality.

Many neighboring societies had more permissive attitudes toward sexuality and marriage. In the Greco-Roman world, for example, it was not uncommon for powerful men to have concubines or engage in relationships outside their marriage.

This verse from Hebrews represents a distinctively Jewish-Christian ethic that affirmed marital fidelity.

Scientific Perspectives

Contemporary scientific understandings of human relationships and sexuality can provide additional layers of insight into this verse.

For example, studies have shown that stable, committed relationships are often correlated with various health benefits, such as lower stress levels and improved mental health.

While such scientific perspectives do not directly confirm or deny the theological or moral claims of the verse, they can complement its practical applications regarding the benefits of fidelity within marriage.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and religious commentators often reflect traditional Christian teachings in their interpretation of Hebrews 13:4.

Many highlight the sacredness of marriage as a covenant that reflects God's unbreakable promises. Others focus on the call to moral purity and the divine judgment facing those who transgress sexual boundaries.

Some commentaries may delve into the societal implications of the text, urging the church to be a countercultural community that upholds marriage and sexual purity in a world that often embraces different values.