What does Hebrews 2:9 mean?

Explanation

The verse Hebrews 2:9 is a statement about the incarnate role and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Literally, the verse acknowledges Jesus as having been made "a little lower than the angels." This phrase suggests Jesus' temporary status as a human being, which involves limitations and a capacity for suffering that angels do not experience.

The verse underscores the purpose of Jesus' humanity, which was to experience death. The "suffering of death" implies the trials and pains associated with mortality that Jesus willingly underwent.

Further, Jesus is described as being "crowned with glory and honour," which symbolizes his exaltation and divine authority, achieved through his resurrection and ascension.

Lastly, the notion that Jesus would "taste death for every man" speaks to the central Christian belief in Jesus' role as a savior, who by his death and resurrection, offered himself as a sacrifice not just for a few, but for all humanity.

This reference to "tasting death" emphasizes the real, physical nature of Christ's death in opposition to a spiritual or symbolic interpretation.

Historical Context

Hebrews is a book in the New Testament that was likely written before the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple in 70 A.D.

The authorship is unknown, and while traditionally attributed to the Apostle Paul, many scholars now dispute Pauline authorship due to the style and theological nuances differing from Paul's acknowledged writings.

The context of this epistle is a sermon or exhortation to a group of early Christians, possibly of Jewish background, who may have been experiencing persecution or hardship.

The assertion that Jesus was made lower than the angels and suffered death would have been particularly resonant due to the cultural context of the time, where suffering and martyrdom were common experiences for Christians.

Theological Insights

From the perspective of Christian theology, Hebrews 2:9 is laden with doctrinal significance.

The verse encapsulates the humanity and the divinity of Christ, two natures unified in one person. Also reflected is the notion of kenosis, the self-emptying of Jesus' own will to become obedient to death, even to death on a cross, as stated elsewhere in the Christian Scriptures.

Different denominations may emphasize certain aspects of this verse.

Protestant theologians, for instance, might use this verse to support the doctrine of salvation by grace through faith, while Catholic and Orthodox theologians could use it to underline the sacrificial nature of the Eucharist as a participation in the mystery of Christ's death and resurrection.

Practical Applications

In terms of daily life, Hebrews 2:9 may be interpreted as an invitation to humility and service.

It suggests that experiencing a reduction in status or power (being "made a little lower") is not only acceptable but also can be a pathway to true glory and honor.

It may also serve as a reminder of the centrality of sacrificial love and the willingness to suffer for the benefit of others, mirroring Jesus' ultimate sacrifice.

Cross-References

• Philippians 2:6-8 "Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross."
• John 10:18 "No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself.

I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again.

This commandment have I received of my Father."

• 1 Peter 3:18 "For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:"
• Revelation 5:9-10 "And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;"

Language Study

Key terms in the original Greek text of Hebrews 2:9 include:

• "ἠλαττωμένον" (ēlattōmenon), translated as "made lower," carries a sense of diminishment or reduction in status.
• "ἀγγέλων" (angelōn) meaning “angels,” in this context, seems to refer to celestial beings who, in Jewish and Christian thought, reside in a higher, spiritual realm.
• "δόξη καὶ τιμή" (doxē kai timē), "glory and honour," are terms associated with high status, renown, and respect.
• "χάριτι" (chariti) means "grace" and often implicates a gift or favor given unconditionally.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The notion of a god or divine being coming to Earth in a lesser form is a common motif in various religious myths.

However, the uniqueness of the Christian narrative in Hebrews 2:9 lies in the purpose of this self-reduction, which is to suffer and taste death for humankind. This sacrificial aspect sets it apart from myths where deities might disguise themselves or walk among humans for other reasons.

Scientific Perspectives

Contemporary scientific understanding does not directly interact with the theological claims of human divine incarnation or atonement.

However, the acceptance of mortality and the biological reality of death are universal human experiences that science explores through medicine and social sciences.

The idea of ethical self-sacrifice has also been examined in psychological and sociological studies, investigating why individuals may perform altruistic acts that benefit others at a cost to themselves.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians have various interpretations of Hebrews 2:9.

Some emphasize the Christological implications, such as Jesus' full participation in human suffering and mortality.

Others focus on the soteriological aspect, that is, the implications for salvation history and the mechanism of atonement.

A common theme in many commentaries is the paradox of Jesus' exaltation through abasement and the theme of glory and honor achieved not in spite of, but through, suffering and death.