Hebrews 11:19 Meaning and Explanation
“Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Abraham reasoned that God could raise Isaac even from the dead, and in a sense he received his son back as if from death.
What Does Hebrews 11:19 Mean?
Here the writer reveals what was passing in Abraham's heart as he raised the knife. He had concluded that God was able to raise Isaac even from the dead if need be.
So sure was he of God's power and faithfulness that, when Isaac was spared, it was as though he received his son back from death itself. The episode becomes a figure pointing forward, a picture of resurrection and of a Son given and restored. Faith counts on the God who raises the dead, trusting that He can keep every promise even past the limits of life. Such confidence makes obedience possible in the darkest test.
Hebrews 11:19 in the Original Language
parabole (παραβολή), 'figure' -- a comparison or symbol, something set alongside to represent another.