Hebrews 11:37

KJV

They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;

KJV (with Strong's)

They were stoned {G3034}, they were sawn asunder {G4249}, were tempted {G3985}, were slain {G599} with {G1722} the sword {G5408}{G3162}: they wandered about {G4022} in {G1722} sheepskins {G3374} and {G1722} goatskins {G122}{G1192}; being destitute {G5302}, afflicted {G2346}, tormented {G2558};

Complete Jewish Bible

They were stoned, sawed in two, murdered by the sword; they went about clothed in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted, mistreated,

Berean Standard Bible

They were stoned, they were sawed in two, they were put to death by the sword. They went around in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, oppressed, and mistreated.

American Standard Version

they were stoned, they were sawn asunder, they were tempted, they were slain with the sword: they went about in sheepskins, in goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, ill-treated

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 11:37, a stark and powerful verse within the celebrated "Hall of Faith," pivots from the triumphs of faith to its profound cost, detailing the horrific persecutions endured by faithful individuals in the Old Testament era. It portrays a grim reality of martyrdom and extreme deprivation, serving as a sobering testament to unwavering loyalty to God despite immense suffering, and challenging believers to consider the full spectrum of faith's demands.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated in the latter half of Hebrews 11, often called the "Hall of Faith," which systematically presents examples of faith from biblical history. The chapter begins by defining faith as "the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen" ([Hebrews 11:1](/hebrews/11-1 "Hebrews 11:1 - Definition of Faith")). It then lists figures like Abel, Noah, Abraham, and Moses, highlighting how their faith led to remarkable acts of obedience and divine intervention. However, [Hebrews 11:35b-38](/hebrews/11-35-38 "Hebrews 11:35-38 - The Sufferings of Faith") marks a dramatic shift. While earlier verses celebrated those who "stopped the mouths of lions" or "quenched the violence of fire," this section abruptly turns to those whose faith did not result in earthly deliverance but in brutal suffering and death. This juxtaposition underscores that faith is not merely for obtaining blessings or victory, but also for enduring hardship, even unto martyrdom, for a greater, heavenly hope.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The persecutions described in this verse reflect the harsh realities faced by God's people throughout various periods of Israelite history and beyond. Stoning was a prescribed method of execution in Israel for capital offenses such as blasphemy or idolatry, but also used by mobs against prophets or those perceived as threats. Being "slain with the sword" was a common fate in warfare or political purges. The mention of "sawn asunder" points to a particularly gruesome tradition, often associated with the martyrdom of the prophet Isaiah under King Manasseh, though not explicitly detailed in the Old Testament canon. Wandering in "sheepskins and goatskins" speaks to extreme destitution and homelessness, a life of rejection and isolation, reminiscent of the rugged existence of prophets like Elijah ([2 Kings 1:8](/2_kings/1-8 "2 Kings 1:8 - Elijah's Appearance")). These descriptions are not merely hypothetical but draw from a collective memory of suffering endured by God's faithful in a hostile world, a testament to their unwavering commitment in the face of societal rejection and violent opposition.
* **Key Themes:** Hebrews 11:37 profoundly contributes to several key themes within the broader book of Hebrews and the New Testament. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the **cost of discipleship** and the reality of **suffering for righteousness' sake**. It challenges the notion that faith always leads to material prosperity or earthly comfort, emphasizing instead that true faith often involves hardship and persecution, mirroring the suffering of Christ himself. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **endurance and perseverance**, demonstrating that faith is not just about initial belief but about steadfastness through trials. These individuals, despite unimaginable torment, did not renounce their God, testifying to the strength of their conviction and the ultimate hope that transcends this life. Finally, it reinforces the concept of **a better hope and heavenly reward**, suggesting that the suffering endured on earth is temporary and pales in comparison to the eternal promises awaiting those who remain faithful, as hinted at in [Hebrews 11:16](/hebrews/11-16 "Hebrews 11:16 - Desire for a Heavenly Country").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **stoned (Greek, _litházō'_):** From _líthos_ (a stone), meaning "to lapidate" or "to stone." This term refers to execution by pelting with stones, a common and often public form of capital punishment in ancient Israel for various offenses, including apostasy or blasphemy. It signifies a violent, communal act of condemnation and execution.
* **sawn asunder (Greek, _prízō'_):** A strengthened form of a primary word meaning "to saw," specifically "to saw in two." This describes a particularly brutal and agonizing method of execution, involving the splitting of a person's body lengthwise. While not explicitly detailed in the Old Testament, Jewish tradition attributes this fate to the prophet Isaiah, making it a powerful symbol of extreme martyrdom and horrific torture.
* **destitute (Greek, _hysteréō'_):** From _hýsteros_ (later, inferior), meaning "to be later," and by implication, "to be inferior" or "to fall short." In this context, it signifies being deficient, lacking, or suffering need, indicating a state of extreme poverty, homelessness, and utter lack of basic necessities. It conveys a profound sense of material and social deprivation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"They were stoned":** This clause describes a common and brutal form of execution, where individuals were killed by a barrage of stones. It immediately sets a tone of violent persecution, recalling figures like Stephen ([Acts 7:59](/acts/7-59 "Acts 7:59 - The Stoning of Stephen")) or others who faced communal wrath for their faith.
* **"they were sawn asunder":** This refers to a particularly gruesome and agonizing method of execution, where a person was literally cut in half. This detail highlights the extreme cruelty and inventive torture inflicted upon some of the faithful, pushing the boundaries of human endurance.
* **"were tempted":** While some translations render this as "were tortured" or "were tested," the KJV's "tempted" (from _peirázō_) here likely refers to attempts by their persecutors to entice them to abandon their faith, betray their God, or compromise their convictions. It suggests a psychological and spiritual assault, aimed at breaking their resolve rather than solely physical torment.
* **"were slain with the sword":** This describes another common method of violent death, signifying execution by blade. It represents a direct, often swift, act of murder carried out by enemies of faith, whether in battle, political purges, or targeted assassinations.
* **"they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins":** This imagery paints a vivid picture of extreme poverty, homelessness, and social ostracization. Wearing only rough animal hides, these individuals were stripped of societal comforts and forced into a nomadic, exposed existence, demonstrating their rejection by the world.
* **"being destitute, afflicted, tormented":** This concluding phrase summarizes their comprehensive suffering. "Destitute" (lacking basic necessities), "afflicted" (crowded, pressed, distressed, suffering tribulation), and "tormented" (maltreated, suffering adversity) collectively convey a state of utter deprivation, physical pain, emotional anguish, and constant distress, emphasizing the relentless and multifaceted nature of their trials.

#### Literary Devices
Hebrews 11:37 employs several powerful literary devices to convey the depth of suffering endured by the faithful. The most prominent is **Anaphora**, the repetition of "they were" at the beginning of successive clauses ("They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword"). This creates a rhythmic, almost relentless, litany of torments, emphasizing the sheer volume and variety of suffering. The verse also utilizes **Asyndeton**, the omission of conjunctions between parts of a sentence (e.g., "destitute, afflicted, tormented"), which quickens the pace and creates a sense of overwhelming, continuous hardship. **Imagery** is powerfully employed, particularly with "sawn asunder" and "wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins," which evoke visceral pictures of brutal execution and extreme destitution, appealing directly to the reader's emotions. This strong appeal to emotion is an example of **Pathos**, designed to elicit sympathy and admiration for the endurance of these saints. Finally, the verse functions as a form of **Martyrology**, cataloging the sacrifices of those who died for their faith, serving as both a historical record and an inspiration for future generations.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 11:37 serves as a profound theological statement on the nature of faith, revealing that it is not a shield against suffering, but often the very reason for it. It underscores the truth that God's approval is not always manifested in earthly deliverance or comfort, but in the steadfast endurance of His people, even unto death. This suffering, however, is never meaningless; it is a testament to a faith that looks beyond temporal comfort to an eternal reward, aligning with the broader biblical narrative that the path of righteousness often involves tribulation. The unwavering faithfulness of these individuals, despite horrific circumstances, testifies to the surpassing value of their heavenly hope and the enduring power of God's grace to sustain His saints through the darkest trials.

* [Matthew 5:10-12](/matthew/5-10-12 "Matthew 5:10-12 - Blessed are the Persecuted")
* [Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ, Sufferers with Christ")
* [1 Peter 4:12-16](/1_peter/4-12-16 "1 Peter 4:12-16 - Suffering for Christ's Name")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hebrews 11:37 presents a sobering yet deeply encouraging challenge for contemporary believers. It shatters any illusion that a life of faith guarantees ease or prosperity, instead revealing that profound devotion to God may lead to intense suffering and rejection by the world. This truth calls us to examine the depth of our own faith: are we prepared to endure hardship, even persecution, for the sake of Christ? The steadfastness of these ancient saints reminds us that our trials are not unique, but part of a long, honorable lineage of believers who have faithfully endured. Their example provides solidarity and strength, urging us to fix our eyes not on earthly comfort, but on the eternal hope that sustained them. Ultimately, this verse compels us to cultivate a faith that is resilient, unwavering, and rooted in the promises of God, recognizing that true spiritual victory is often found in faithful endurance rather than earthly triumph.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the suffering described in Hebrews 11:37 challenge my perception of what a "blessed" life of faith looks like?**
* **In what ways might I be tempted to compromise my faith to avoid discomfort or persecution in my own life?**
* **What specific actions can I take to cultivate a more resilient and enduring faith, even in the face of potential hardship?**
* **How does knowing that believers throughout history have suffered for their faith provide me with encouragement or solidarity in my own struggles?**

### FAQ

**Who are the "they" referred to in Hebrews 11:37, and why were they subjected to such extreme suffering?**

Answer: The "they" in Hebrews 11:37 refers to unnamed faithful individuals from the Old Testament era, whose stories of suffering and martyrdom are not always explicitly detailed in the canonical scriptures but were part of Jewish tradition and collective memory. While specific names are not given, their experiences highlight the harsh realities faced by prophets, righteous individuals, and martyrs who remained loyal to God despite intense opposition. For example, tradition attributes the "sawn asunder" fate to the prophet Isaiah. They were subjected to such extreme suffering primarily because of their unwavering faith and refusal to compromise their devotion to God in a world often hostile to divine truth. Their suffering underscores the cost of discipleship and the conflict between the kingdom of God and worldly powers.

**What is the significance of the phrase "were tempted" in this context, given the other forms of physical torment listed?**

Answer: The Greek word translated "tempted" (G3985, _peirázō_) can mean to test, try, or prove, as well as to entice or tempt. In the context of the severe physical persecutions listed alongside it, "were tempted" likely refers not to internal moral temptation, but to the external pressure and attempts by their persecutors to break their faith, to induce them to deny God, or to betray their fellow believers. It implies a psychological and spiritual torment designed to make them renounce their convictions, perhaps through promises of release or threats of further pain. This highlights that their suffering was not only physical but also a profound spiritual battle for their allegiance.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hebrews 11:37, while recounting the sufferings of Old Testament saints, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The catalogue of torments—stoning, being sawn asunder, being tempted, slain with the sword, destitution, affliction, and torment—foreshadows the comprehensive suffering of the Messiah. Jesus, though sinless, endured rejection, poverty, and intense physical and spiritual agony, culminating in His crucifixion, a death far more brutal than stoning or the sword. He was "tempted" in every way, yet without sin ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our High Priest, Tempted Yet Sinless")), and ultimately "slain" for the sins of the world ([Isaiah 53:5](/isaiah/53-5 "Isaiah 53:5 - Wounded for Our Transgressions")). His wandering, homeless life ([Matthew 8:20](/matthew/8-20 "Matthew 8:20 - Jesus Has Nowhere to Lay His Head")) mirrors the destitution of these faithful ones. Therefore, these Old Testament martyrs, by their faithful endurance unto death, prefigure the ultimate suffering of the Lamb of God, whose perfect obedience and sacrifice on the cross provides the true and lasting hope for all who suffer for righteousness' sake. Their faith pointed forward to Him, and in His suffering and resurrection, their hope for a "better resurrection" ([Hebrews 11:35](/hebrews/11-35 "Hebrews 11:35 - Women Received Their Dead by Resurrection")) and a "heavenly country" ([Hebrews 11:16](/hebrews/11-16 "Hebrews 11:16 - Desire for a Heavenly Country")) is fully realized and secured for all who believe in Him ([John 14:1-3](/john/14-1-3 "John 14:1-3 - Jesus Prepares a Place")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Chronicles 24:21

And they conspired against him, and stoned him with stones at the commandment of the king in the court of the house of the LORD.

Jeremiah 26:23

And they fetched forth Urijah out of Egypt, and brought him unto Jehoiakim the king; who slew him with the sword, and cast his dead body into the graves of the common people.

1 Kings 19:10

And he said, I have been very jealous for the LORD God of hosts: for the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, [even] I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.

1 Kings 21:13

And there came in two men, children of Belial, and sat before him: and the men of Belial witnessed against him, [even] against Naboth, in the presence of the people, saying, Naboth did blaspheme God and the king. Then they carried him forth out of the city, and stoned him with stones, that he died.

1 Kings 21:15

And it came to pass, when Jezebel heard that Naboth was stoned, and was dead, that Jezebel said to Ahab, Arise, take possession of the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, which he refused to give thee for money: for Naboth is not alive, but dead.

2 Kings 1:8

And they answered him, [He was] an hairy man, and girt with a girdle of leather about his loins. And he said, It [is] Elijah the Tishbite.

Acts 7:52

Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers: