Hebrews 2:18 Meaning and Explanation
“For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The Context of Hebrews 2:18
The chapter explains why the Son took on flesh and blood: to share fully in the human condition and become a merciful and faithful high priest. Verse 18 draws the comforting conclusion of that argument.
What Does Hebrews 2:18 Mean?
Hebrews 2:18 says that because Jesus personally endured temptation and suffering, He is able to help those who are being tempted right now. The word "himself" carries the weight of the verse: this is aid from One who has been through it, not help offered from a safe distance. He did not observe human struggle from above; He entered it, feeling its pull and its pain.
The verb "succour" means to run to the cry of someone in need, to come quickly to the rescue. The picture is of a helper who hears a call and hurries to the side of the one crying out. Because Jesus knows temptation from the inside, its pressure, its weariness, its lonely intensity, He responds with understanding strength rather than cold instruction. The earlier verses of the chapter explain why He took on flesh and blood: so that He could share our condition and stand with us in it. This verse draws the practical conclusion. The same Lord who reigns on high is the Lord who has walked the hard road, and that combination is precisely what makes Him a Savior we can run to in our weakest moments.
Hebrews 2:18 in the Original Language
The Greek boētheō ("succour") combines the ideas of a cry and running, picturing one who hastens to answer a call for help.
Bible Verses Related to Hebrews 2:18
“For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”
- Hebrews 4:15
“There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able.”
- 1 Corinthians 10:13
“Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God.”
- Hebrews 2:17
How to Apply Hebrews 2:18 Today
When you face temptation, you can turn to Jesus knowing He understands the struggle from the inside and is eager to come to your aid.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hebrews 2:18
What does Hebrews 2:18 mean?
Hebrews 2:18 says that because Jesus personally endured temptation and suffering, He is able to help those who are being tempted right now. The word "himself" carries the weight of the verse: this is aid from One who has been through it, not help offered from a safe distance. He did not observe human struggle from above; He entered it, feeling its pull and its pain.
What is the context of Hebrews 2:18?
The chapter explains why the Son took on flesh and blood: to share fully in the human condition and become a merciful and faithful high priest. Verse 18 draws the comforting conclusion of that argument.
How can I apply Hebrews 2:18 today?
When you face temptation, you can turn to Jesus knowing He understands the struggle from the inside and is eager to come to your aid.