Hebrews 8:4 kjva — For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law:

King James Version with Apocrypha

"For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law:"

— Hebrews 8:4, King James Version with Apocrypha

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Hebrews 8:4 in Other Translations

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Hebrews 8 — Context

1

Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens;

2

A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.

3

For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer.

4

For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law:

5

Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount.

6

But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises.

7

For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second.

Hebrews 8:4 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Hebrews 8:4 say?
Hebrews 8:4 in the King James Version with Apocrypha reads: “For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law:”
Where is Hebrews 8:4 in the Bible?
Hebrews 8:4 is found in the New Testament, in the book of Hebrews, chapter 8, verse 4.
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 8:4.
What translation should I read Hebrews 8:4 in?
Hebrews 8:4 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 8:4?
Hebrews 8:4 reads (KJVA): “For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law:” 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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