What does Hebrews 5:2 mean?
"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." - Hebrews 5:2

Hebrews 5:2 in the King James Version of the Bible states, "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."
In this verse, the author of the Epistle to the Hebrews is discussing the qualifications of a high priest in the Jewish faith. This verse is part of a larger passage that compares Jesus Christ to the high priests of the Old Testament and emphasizes the qualities that make Jesus a superior mediator between humanity and God.
The verse begins by examining the role of a high priest, noting that the high priest must be able to "have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way." This indicates that the high priest must be empathetic and understanding, able to sympathize with the struggles and shortcomings of the people he serves. The high priest must be able to offer guidance and forgiveness to those who have gone astray or made mistakes. This concept of compassion and understanding is a central theme throughout the entire Bible, and it is particularly emphasized in the teachings of Jesus.
The verse also states that the high priest is able to have compassion because "he himself also is compassed with infirmity." This highlights the humanity of the high priest and suggests that his own experiences of weakness and vulnerability enable him to relate to and understand the experiences of others. This acknowledgment of human frailty serves as a reminder that all individuals are susceptible to error and in need of forgiveness and understanding.
The broader context of this verse within the Epistle to the Hebrews emphasizes the significance of Jesus Christ as the ultimate high priest. The author describes Jesus as the perfect mediator between humanity and God, one who can truly understand and empathize with the challenges and temptations faced by humans. This understanding is rooted in the belief that Jesus, while divine, also experienced the full range of human experiences and emotions during his time on earth.
The verse in Hebrews 5:2 speaks to the universal nature of human vulnerability and the need for compassion and understanding. It encourages empathy and support for those who may have gone astray or who are struggling with ignorance or weakness. This message aligns with the overarching themes of forgiveness and redemption found throughout the Bible, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy and compassion in our relationships with others.
Symbolically, the verse serves as a representation of the interconnectedness of humanity and the compassion and understanding that individuals should extend to one another. By acknowledging the shared experience of human frailty and emphasizing the need for empathy and forgiveness, the verse promotes a sense of community and support among individuals. It also highlights the idea that true strength lies in the ability to show compassion and understanding, rather than in a lack of vulnerability.
In conclusion, Hebrews 5:2 in the King James Version of the Bible emphasizes the importance of compassion and understanding in the role of a high priest and in human relationships more broadly. It underscores the universal experience of human vulnerability and the need for empathy and support. The verse also serves as a reminder of the significance of Jesus Christ as the ultimate mediator between humanity and God, one who can truly understand and empathize with the challenges and temptations faced by humans. This message of empathy and compassion is a central theme throughout the Bible and continues to resonate as a guiding principle for individuals in their relationships with one another.
Have questions about Hebrews 5:2?
Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.
Get Our Apps
Hebrews 5:2 Artwork
Hebrews 5:2 - "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."
"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." - Hebrews 5:2
Hebrews 2:5 - "For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak."
Hebrews 8:5
John 5:2 - "Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, having five porches."
Hebrews 8:1-5
Hebrews 10:5-10
Hebrews 10:5-10
"For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak." - Hebrews 2:5
Hebrews 4:5 - "And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest."
Hebrews 5:10 - "Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec."
Hebrews 6:5 - "And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,"
Philippians 3:5 - "Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee;"
Hebrews 5:13 - "For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe."
Hebrews 5:4 - "And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron."
Hebrews 5:3 - "And by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins."
Hebrews 9:5 - "And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we cannot now speak particularly."
Hebrews 5:5 - "So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee."
Hebrews 5:8 - "Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;"
Hebrews 5:6 - "As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec."
Hebrews 5:11 - "Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing."
Hebrews 11:2 - "For by it the elders obtained a good report."
Hebrews 5:9 - "And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;"
Hebrews 2:2 - "For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward;"
Hebrews 3:5 - "And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after;"
"And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest." - Hebrews 4:5
Hebrews 10:5 - "Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me:"
"Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec." - Hebrews 5:10
"Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, having five porches." - John 5:2
Hebrews 6:2 - "Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment."