Hebrews 2:17 kjva — Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high…

King James Version with Apocrypha

"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, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people."

— Hebrews 2:17, King James Version with Apocrypha

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Hebrews 2:17 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations
  • KJV

    “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, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.”

  • ASV

    “Wherefore it behooved him in all things to be made like unto his brethren, that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. ”

  • WEB

    “Therefore he was obligated in all things to be made like his brothers, that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make atonement for the sins of the people.”

  • NET

    “Therefore he had to be made like his brothers and sisters in every respect, so that he could become a merciful and faithful high priest in things relating to God, to make atonement for the sins of the people.”

  • DRB

    “Wherefore, it behoved him in all things to be made like unto his brethren, that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest before God, that he might be a propitiation for the sins of the people.”

  • BBE

    “Because of this it was necessary for him to be made like his brothers in every way, so that he might be a high priest full of mercy and keeping faith in everything to do with God, making offerings for the sins of the people.”

Hebrews 2 — Context

14

Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;

15

And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.

16

For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham.

17

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, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.

18

For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.

Hebrews 2:17 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Hebrews 2:17 say?
Hebrews 2:17 in the King James Version with Apocrypha reads: “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, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.”
Where is Hebrews 2:17 in the Bible?
Hebrews 2:17 is found in the New Testament, in the book of Hebrews, chapter 2, verse 17.
Who wrote Hebrews?
Hebrews is traditionally attributed to Anonymous. Authorship has been debated since the earliest centuries — candidates include Paul, Apollos, Barnabas, Luke, and Priscilla. The letter itself is anonymous and the most honest answer is that we do not know. It was written c. AD 60–70.
What is the book of Hebrews about?
Hebrews is a sermon-letter showing that everything in the Old Covenant — priests, sacrifices, the tabernacle — pointed to Jesus, who is "better" in every way. It calls a tired church to draw near with confidence, hold fast their hope, and run the race set before them.
What are the major themes of Hebrews?
Hebrews explores themes including Supremacy of Christ, New Covenant, Priesthood, Faith, Perseverance. These themes shape the meaning and context of Hebrews 2:17.
What translation should I read Hebrews 2:17 in?
Hebrews 2:17 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize Hebrews 2:17?
Hebrews 2:17 reads (KJVA): “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, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.
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