Hebrews 11:38

KJV

(Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and [in] mountains, and [in] dens and caves of the earth.

KJV (with Strong's)

(Of whom {G3739} the world {G2889} was {G2258} not {G3756} worthy {G514}:) they wandered {G4105} in {G1722} deserts {G2047}, and {G2532} in mountains {G3735}, and {G2532} in dens {G4693} and {G2532} caves {G3692} of the earth {G1093}.

Complete Jewish Bible

wandering about in deserts and mountains, living in caves and holes in the ground! The world was not worthy of them!

Berean Standard Bible

The world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, and hid in caves and holes in the ground.

American Standard Version

(of whom the world was not worthy), wandering in deserts and mountains and caves, and the holes of the earth.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 11:38 serves as a profound and poignant summary within the "faith chapter," encapsulating the extreme suffering and unwavering devotion of Old Testament saints. It starkly contrasts the spiritual bankruptcy of a world that rejected God's chosen with the remarkable endurance of those who, through faith, remained steadfast amidst severe persecution, highlighting their profound spiritual dignity despite their physical destitution.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse concludes a powerful section within Hebrews 11, often called the "Hall of Faith," which transitions from naming specific heroes of faith (like Abraham, Moses, and Rahab in [Hebrews 11:1-31](/hebrews/11-1-31 "Hebrews 11:1-31 - The Hall of Faith")) to describing the collective experience of many unnamed faithful individuals. Beginning with [Hebrews 11:32](/hebrews/11-32 "Hebrews 11:32 - Faith's Diverse Manifestations"), the author rapidly lists various accomplishments and trials of faith, moving from those who "subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises" ([Hebrews 11:33](/hebrews/11-33 "Hebrews 11:33 - Achievements of Faith")) to those who faced unimaginable suffering. Verses [Hebrews 11:35-37](/hebrews/11-35-37 "Hebrews 11:35-37 - The Sufferings of Faith") detail specific tortures, imprisonments, and deaths, setting the stage for the summary statement in verse 38, which generalizes the extreme hardship and exile endured by these faithful witnesses. The verse acts as a bridge, leading to the exhortation in [Hebrews 12:1-3](/hebrews/12-1-3 "Hebrews 12:1-3 - Running the Race with Endurance"), where the suffering of these saints becomes an encouragement for New Testament believers.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The experiences described in Hebrews 11:38 resonate with the historical realities faced by many faithful individuals throughout Israel's history and the early Christian period. Prophets like Elijah fled into the wilderness to escape persecution from wicked rulers (e.g., [1 Kings 17:3](/1_kings/17-3 "1 Kings 17:3 - Elijah at the Brook Cherith")). David, before becoming king, spent years as a fugitive hiding in caves and deserts from King Saul ([1 Samuel 22:1](/1_samuel/22-1 "1 Samuel 22:1 - David Flees to the Cave of Adullam")). During the Maccabean period (approx. 167-160 BC), many Jews suffered intense persecution under Antiochus IV Epiphanes, with some fleeing to caves and mountains to escape forced Hellenization and martyrdom, as recorded in [1 Maccabees 2:28-31](/1_maccabees/2-28-31 "1 Maccabees 2:28-31 - Mattathias and His Sons Flee to the Mountains"). This historical backdrop underscores that the "wandering" and "hiding" were not mere inconveniences but desperate measures for survival, often leading to death by exposure or starvation. The early Christian community, to whom the letter of Hebrews was likely addressed, also faced increasing persecution, making these examples of endurance particularly relevant and encouraging.
* **Key Themes:** Hebrews 11:38 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Hebrews and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **Suffering and Persecution for Righteousness**, demonstrating that faithfulness to God often leads to rejection and hardship from the world, a concept echoed by Jesus in [Matthew 5:10-12](/matthew/5-10-12 "Matthew 5:10-12 - Blessed Are the Persecuted"). Secondly, it highlights the **World's Unworthiness and Moral Blindness**, emphasizing that the world, in its fallen state, fails to recognize or value true spiritual dignity, instead persecuting those who embody it. This contrasts sharply with God's perspective, where these suffering saints are considered precious. Thirdly, the verse underscores **Enduring Faith Amidst Adversity**, showcasing that genuine faith is not merely intellectual assent but a resilient trust in God that perseveres through the most extreme physical and social deprivation. Finally, it subtly points to the theme of a **Better Hope and Heavenly Citizenship**, implying that the temporary suffering and earthly exile of these saints were endured in anticipation of a superior, eternal dwelling place, a "better country" ([Hebrews 11:16](/hebrews/11-16 "Hebrews 11:16 - Longing for a Heavenly Country")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Worthy (Greek, _áxios'_):** From G514, meaning "deserving, comparable or suitable (as if drawing praise)." In this context, the declaration that "the world was not worthy" of these saints is a profound indictment of humanity's fallen state and its inability to appreciate true spiritual value. It implies that the moral and spiritual stature of these faithful individuals far surpassed the corrupt values and systems of the world that persecuted them. Their worth was not derived from worldly recognition but from their divine calling and faithfulness.
* **Wandered (Greek, _planáō'_):** From G4105, meaning "to (properly, cause to) roam (from safety, truth, or virtue); go astray, deceive, err, seduce, wander, be out of the way." Here, it describes the physical displacement and nomadic existence of the persecuted saints. They were forced to "roam" or "wander" not because they were lost or without purpose, but because the world actively rejected them, pushing them out of settled society into dangerous and uninhabitable regions. This wandering signifies their exile and destitution, yet it implicitly highlights their steadfastness in remaining on the path of truth despite being physically "out of the way" of human civilization.
* **Earth (Greek, _gē'_):** From G1093, meaning "soil; by extension a region, or the solid part or the whole of the terrene globe (including the occupants in each application):--country, earth(-ly), ground, land, world." The phrase "caves of the earth" emphasizes the absolute extremity of their hiding places—they were driven to the very depths and most desolate parts of the physical world. It underscores their complete lack of secure dwelling and their reliance on the raw, untamed elements of creation for survival, a stark contrast to the comforts and structures of human society.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"(Of whom the world was not worthy:)"**: This powerful parenthetical statement serves as a divine judgment on the "world" (κοσμος, *kosmos*, referring to humanity in its fallen, unredeemed state). It asserts that the spiritual and moral integrity, the unwavering faith, and the righteous character of these persecuted saints were of such immense value that the corrupt, godless world was utterly incapable of appreciating or containing them. The world's rejection of them was not a mark against the saints, but a damning indictment of the world itself.
* **"they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth."**: This clause vividly describes the physical suffering and forced exile of these faithful individuals. "Wandered" (planáō) conveys a sense of aimless movement driven by necessity, not choice. The listing of "deserts," "mountains," "dens," and "caves of the earth" paints a comprehensive picture of extreme destitution and isolation. These were not places of comfort or security but harsh, desolate, and often dangerous environments, indicating that these saints were reduced to living as fugitives, outside the bounds of civilized society, often facing exposure, starvation, and constant threat.

#### Literary Devices
The author employs several potent literary devices in this verse to amplify its impact. **Hyperbole** is evident in the declaration "Of whom the world was not worthy," which, while spiritually true, is a rhetorical exaggeration to underscore the profound moral bankruptcy of the world in contrast to the immense spiritual dignity of the saints. The verse also utilizes vivid **Imagery**, painting a stark picture of destitution and exile through the enumeration of "deserts, mountains, dens and caves of the earth." This concrete language allows the reader to viscerally feel the hardship endured. Furthermore, the repetitive use of "in" (Greek: *en*) before each geographical location ("in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves") creates a subtle **Anaphora** or parallelism, emphasizing the pervasive nature of their homelessness and the variety of desolate places they were forced to inhabit. Finally, the entire verse functions as a powerful **Contrast**, pitting the spiritual worth of the faithful against the moral unworthiness of the world that rejects them, thereby elevating the suffering saints to a position of ultimate honor in God's eyes.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 11:38 profoundly impacts our understanding of suffering, worth, and divine perspective. It teaches that true worth is not measured by worldly acceptance, comfort, or success, but by one's faithfulness to God, even in the face of extreme adversity. The world's rejection of these saints was not a sign of their inadequacy, but rather a testament to their alignment with God's truth, which often stands in opposition to the world's values. This verse underscores the reality that following God's path may lead to physical hardship and social ostracization, but such experiences are not meaningless; they are part of a divine refining process and a shared heritage with countless faithful witnesses. The suffering endured by these saints, though seemingly a defeat, is reframed as a badge of honor, pointing to a greater, unseen reality and an eternal reward that far outweighs any earthly tribulation.

* [Matthew 5:10-12](/matthew/5-10-12 "Matthew 5:10-12 - Blessed Are the Persecuted")
* [1 Peter 4:12-16](/1_peter/4-12-16 "1 Peter 4:12-16 - Suffering for Christ")
* [Romans 8:17-18](/romans/8-17-18 "Romans 8:17-18 - Heirs with Christ, Suffering with Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hebrews 11:38 offers a profound source of encouragement and a reorientation of values for believers navigating a world often hostile to faith. It challenges us to reconsider what truly constitutes "worthiness" and "success." In a society that often equates worth with material possessions, social status, or public approval, this verse reminds us that our true dignity and value are found in our relationship with God and our unwavering commitment to His truth, even if it means being rejected or marginalized by the world. The example of these ancient saints calls us to cultivate a resilient faith that can endure hardship, knowing that our suffering for righteousness' sake aligns us with a long lineage of faithful witnesses and ultimately with Christ Himself. Their perseverance, even in utter destitution, testifies to a hope that transcends present circumstances, urging us to fix our eyes on the unseen eternal realities rather than the fleeting trials of this life. When we face opposition or discomfort for our faith, this verse assures us that we are in good company, and our ultimate reward is secure in God's hands.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the world's rejection of these saints challenge my own understanding of what it means to be "worthy" or "successful"?**
* **In what ways might I be tempted to compromise my faith to gain worldly acceptance or avoid hardship?**
* **What specific "deserts, mountains, dens, or caves" (metaphorically speaking) might God be calling me to endure or find refuge in in during times of spiritual testing?**
* **How does the enduring faith of these Old Testament saints inspire me to persevere in my own walk with Christ, especially when facing difficulties?**

### FAQ
**Who are the "they" referred to in Hebrews 11:38, and why was the world "not worthy" of them?**

Answer: The "they" refers to the collective body of faithful Old Testament saints, particularly those mentioned from [Hebrews 11:32](/hebrews/11-32 "Hebrews 11:32 - Faith's Diverse Manifestations") onwards, including prophets and unnamed individuals who suffered intensely for their faith. The world was "not worthy" of them because, in its fallen state, it failed to recognize or appreciate their profound spiritual dignity, righteousness, and unwavering devotion to God. Instead of honoring them, the world persecuted, rejected, and drove them into destitution, proving itself morally and spiritually bankrupt in contrast to the immense value of these faithful individuals in God's eyes.

**What does the description of "wandering in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth" signify?**

Answer: This vivid imagery signifies the extreme physical suffering, destitution, and forced exile endured by these saints. It paints a picture of them living as fugitives, driven out of civilized society into the harshest and most desolate environments. "Deserts" and "mountains" imply exposure and isolation, while "dens and caves of the earth" suggest desperate hiding places, often associated with wild animals or the lowest forms of existence. This description emphasizes their complete lack of security, comfort, or belonging in the world, highlighting the depth of their sacrifice and the severity of their persecution.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hebrews 11:38, while describing Old Testament saints, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus Christ. The "world was not worthy" of these faithful individuals, but supremely, the world was not worthy of Christ, its Creator and Redeemer, whom it rejected, crucified, and cast out. Just as these saints "wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth," Jesus Himself experienced profound homelessness and rejection, declaring that "the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head" ([Matthew 8:20](/matthew/8-20 "Matthew 8:20 - The Son of Man Has Nowhere to Lay His Head")). He was "despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain" ([Isaiah 53:3](/isaiah/53-3 "Isaiah 53:3 - He Was Despised")). The suffering and exile of these Old Testament figures foreshadowed the ultimate suffering of the Messiah, who endured the cross, "despising the shame" ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Pioneer and Perfecter of Faith")), outside the city gate ([Hebrews 13:12](/hebrews/13-12 "Hebrews 13:12 - Jesus Suffered Outside the Gate")). Believers in Christ are called to follow His example, sharing in His sufferings ([Philippians 3:10](/philippians/3-10 "Philippians 3:10 - Sharing in Christ's Sufferings")) and enduring rejection from a world that similarly remains "not worthy" of God's truth. Our present hardships are thus a participation in Christ's own journey, leading to a future glory where we will reign with Him, having found our true home not in this world, but in the "heavenly country" He has prepared ([Hebrews 11:16](/hebrews/11-16 "Hebrews 11:16 - Longing for a Heavenly Country")).

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

1 Kings 18:4

For it was [so], when Jezebel cut off the prophets of the LORD, that Obadiah took an hundred prophets, and hid them by fifty in a cave, and fed them with bread and water.)

1 Kings 19:9

¶ And he came thither unto a cave, and lodged there; and, behold, the word of the LORD [came] to him, and he said unto him, What doest thou here, Elijah?

1 Samuel 22:1

¶ David therefore departed thence, and escaped to the cave Adullam: and when his brethren and all his father's house heard [it], they went down thither to him.

Isaiah 57:1

¶ The righteous perisheth, and no man layeth [it] to heart: and merciful men [are] taken away, none considering that the righteous is taken away from the evil [to come].

1 Samuel 24:1

¶ And it came to pass, when Saul was returned from following the Philistines, that it was told him, saying, Behold, David [is] in the wilderness of Engedi.

1 Samuel 24:3

And he came to the sheepcotes by the way, where [was] a cave; and Saul went in to cover his feet: and David and his men remained in the sides of the cave.

Psalms 142:1

¶ Maschil of David; A Prayer when he was in the cave. I cried unto the LORD with my voice; with my voice unto the LORD did I make my supplication.