Hebrews 6:2 Meaning and Explanation
“Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The writer lists more of the foundational teachings: baptisms, laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.
What Does Hebrews 6:2 Mean?
These items complete the list of 'first principles' begun in the previous verse. They were the basic instruction every new believer received, the bedrock truths on which a faithful life was built. Baptism, the laying on of hands, the raising of the dead, and the final judgment marked the entry and the horizon of the Christian walk.
Each truth points beyond itself. Baptism speaks of cleansing and new life; the laying on of hands of blessing and consecration; resurrection of the body's future hope; and judgment of the day when all stand before God. To know these is to know where one begins and where one is bound. The writer assumes them as settled ground so that the reader can build upward toward maturity in Christ.
Hebrews 6:2 in the Original Language
baptismos (βαπτισμός), 'baptisms' -- a washing or immersion in water; the plural points to instruction about such rites.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hebrews 6:2
What does Hebrews 6:2 mean?
The writer lists more of the foundational teachings: baptisms, laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.