Hebrews 5:2 Meaning and Explanation
“Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A high priest can deal gently with the ignorant and the straying, because he too is surrounded by weakness.
What Does Hebrews 5:2 Mean?
The writer continues describing the high priest's qualifications. Because he shares the frailty of those he serves, he is able to feel with them rather than merely judge them, especially toward those who sin out of ignorance or who have wandered from the way.
Here is tender comfort: the priesthood was never meant to be cold or distant. The very weakness of the priest becomes the soil of his gentleness. This points us toward Christ, who, knowing our frame, does not break the bruised reed. The mediator we need is not one who looks down from a height untouched, but one who can bear with us patiently as we stumble toward Him.
Hebrews 5:2 in the Original Language
metriopatheo (μετριοπαθέω), 'have compassion' -- to deal gently and with measured feeling, neither indifferent nor harsh toward the failings of others.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hebrews 5:2
What does Hebrews 5:2 mean?
A high priest can deal gently with the ignorant and the straying, because he too is surrounded by weakness.