Hebrews 13:2

KJV

Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

KJV (with Strong's)

Be {G1950} not {G3361} forgetful {G1950} to entertain strangers {G5381}: for {G1063} thereby {G1223}{G5026} some {G5100} have entertained {G3579} angels {G32} unawares {G2990}.

Complete Jewish Bible

but don’t forget to be friendly to outsiders; for in so doing, some people, without knowing it, have entertained angels.

Berean Standard Bible

Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.

American Standard Version

Forget not to show love unto strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 13:2 serves as a profound exhortation to believers, urging them to actively practice hospitality, particularly towards strangers. The verse provides a compelling motivation for such generosity, reminding the audience that by welcoming the unknown, some individuals have, without their knowledge, extended hospitality to divine messengers, specifically angels. This command underscores the importance of selfless love and open-heartedness in the Christian walk, suggesting that acts of kindness can lead to unexpected blessings and even divine encounters, echoing ancient biblical narratives of God's interaction with humanity through disguised forms.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Hebrews 13 marks a distinct shift in the epistle, moving from profound theological exposition to practical ethical exhortations for Christian living. Having meticulously argued for the superiority of Christ, His priesthood, and the New Covenant (e.g., [Hebrews 7-10](/hebrews/7-10 "Christ's Superior Priesthood and Covenant")), the author now applies these truths to the daily lives of believers. This final chapter serves as a series of pastoral instructions, encouraging steadfastness in faith and love amidst persecution and trials. Verse 2, specifically addressing hospitality, is nestled among calls for brotherly love ([Hebrews 13:1](/hebrews/13-1 "Brotherly Love")), faithfulness in marriage ([Hebrews 13:4](/hebrews/13-4 "Marriage and Purity")), contentment ([Hebrews 13:5](/hebrews/13-5 "Contentment")), and respect for spiritual leaders ([Hebrews 13:7](/hebrews/13-7 "Remember Your Leaders")). It emphasizes that genuine faith is not merely intellectual assent but is demonstrated through tangible acts of love and service within the community and beyond.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient world, travel was often perilous, and public accommodations were scarce, unreliable, and frequently unsafe or disreputable. Inns, where they existed, were often expensive and catered primarily to merchants or those with ill intent. Consequently, travelers, especially those on religious pilgrimages or Christian missionaries, heavily relied on the hospitality of private homes. "Hospitality" (Greek: *philoxenia*, literally "love of strangers") was not merely a social nicety but a vital moral and religious duty, deeply embedded in Near Eastern cultures. It was seen as a sacred obligation, reflecting a community's values and a host's piety. To refuse hospitality could be a grave offense. Furthermore, the concept of divine beings appearing in human form was a familiar motif in ancient literature and religious thought, particularly in Jewish tradition, making the idea of "entertaining angels unawares" a potent and understandable motivation for the original audience.
* **Key Themes:** Hebrews 13:2 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book and broader Christian theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **practical Christian love**, emphasizing that *agape* love is not abstract but expressed through concrete actions, particularly towards those outside one's immediate circle. Secondly, it highlights the **importance of faith in action**, demonstrating that true belief manifests in deeds of compassion and generosity, echoing the call for a living faith found in passages like [James 2:14-26](/james/2-14-26 "Faith Without Works Is Dead"). Thirdly, the verse introduces the theme of **divine encounter and unseen blessings**, suggesting that God can work in unexpected ways through ordinary human interactions. This ties into the broader biblical narrative where God often reveals Himself or His messengers in humble or disguised forms, challenging believers to see every person as a potential vessel for divine interaction and every act of kindness as an opportunity for unforeseen spiritual reward. This theme encourages a posture of openness and readiness for God's surprising work.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **forgetful (Greek, _epilanthánomai'_):** Derived from *epi* (upon) and *lanthánō* (to lie hid, escape notice), this verb means "to lose out of mind" or "to neglect." The use of the negative "Be not forgetful" (μὴ ἐπιλανθάνεσθε) functions as a strong command, an active prohibition against neglecting hospitality. It implies that hospitality is not an optional extra but a duty that can be easily overlooked or intentionally ignored, requiring a conscious effort to remember and practice.
* **entertain strangers (Greek, _philonexía'_):** This noun (G5381) literally means "hospitableness" or "love of strangers," composed of *philos* (loving) and *xenos* (stranger, foreigner). The KJV translation "entertain strangers" captures the essence of this deep-seated virtue. It denotes more than mere politeness; it signifies a genuine, active love and welcoming attitude towards those who are unknown, foreign, or in need of shelter and care. This word encapsulates the very essence of the command.
* **unawares (Greek, _lanthánō'_):** This verb (G2990) means "to lie hid," "to be unknown," or "unwittingly." In the context of "entertained angels unawares" (ἔλαθόν τινες ξενίσαντες ἀγγέλους), it emphasizes that the hosts were completely ignorant of the true, divine identity of their guests. This element highlights the selfless nature of the act—the hospitality was extended without any expectation of a supernatural reward or recognition, making the subsequent divine encounter a surprising and unmerited blessing.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Be not forgetful to entertain strangers:"** This opening clause functions as a direct imperative, a command to the Christian community. The negative phrasing, "Be not forgetful," suggests that there is a natural human tendency to neglect this duty, perhaps due to busyness, fear, or indifference. It calls for intentionality and active remembrance of the importance of welcoming those who are unfamiliar or in need of shelter. The phrase "to entertain strangers" (φιλοξενίας) emphasizes the virtue of *philoxenia*, the loving and generous reception of outsiders, which was a cornerstone of early Christian community life and a reflection of God's own welcoming nature.
* **"for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."** This second clause provides the powerful motivation for the command. The conjunction "for" (γάρ) introduces the reason or justification. The phrase "thereby" (διὰ ταύτης) points back to the act of hospitality. The reference to "some have entertained angels unawares" is a clear allusion to Old Testament narratives, particularly Abraham's encounter with three divine visitors in [Genesis 18](/genesis/18 "Abraham's Hospitality") and Lot's welcoming of two angels in [Genesis 19](/genesis/19 "Lot's Hospitality"). The key element is "unawares" (ἔλαθον), meaning without knowing or unwittingly. This highlights that the hosts were ignorant of their guests' true identity, underscoring that the blessing or divine encounter was a result of their pure, selfless act of hospitality, not a calculated effort to gain favor. It implies that God can work and reveal Himself in the most unexpected and seemingly ordinary encounters.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. Primarily, it uses **Allusion**, directly referencing well-known Old Testament narratives, such as Abraham's encounter with divine visitors in [Genesis 18:1-8](/genesis/18-1-8 "Abraham's Hospitality to Divine Visitors") and Lot's reception of angels in [Genesis 19:1-3](/genesis/19-1-3 "Lot's Hospitality to Angels"). This allusion serves to provide a compelling historical and theological precedent for the command, grounding the exhortation in the rich heritage of God's interaction with His people. Furthermore, there is an element of **Paradox** or **Irony** in the phrase "unawares." The profound significance of the encounter is hidden from the hosts, emphasizing that true hospitality is extended without expectation of extraordinary reward, yet it can yield the most unexpected and divine blessings. Finally, the verse functions as a direct **Exhortation**, a strong moral imperative ("Be not forgetful"), guiding the community towards a specific virtuous behavior.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 13:2 profoundly connects the practice of hospitality to the very character of God and the nature of Christian love. It suggests that welcoming the stranger is not merely a social courtesy but an act that participates in God's own welcoming nature, reflecting His boundless grace and generosity towards humanity, whom He welcomed into His family through Christ. This verse elevates hospitality from a mundane duty to a sacred opportunity, implying that God can manifest His presence or work through those we encounter, even when we are unaware. It challenges believers to see every person, especially the marginalized or unknown, as a potential vessel for divine interaction, fostering a posture of open-heartedness and readiness for God's surprising intervention in the ordinary. This theological understanding encourages a selfless, unconditional love that mirrors God's love for us, extending grace without expectation of return, and recognizing the inherent dignity and potential for divine connection in every human being.

* [Genesis 18:1-8](/genesis/18-1-8 "Abraham's Hospitality to Divine Visitors")
* [Romans 12:13](/romans/12-13 "Practice Hospitality")
* [1 Peter 4:9](/1_peter/4-9 "Show Hospitality Without Grumbling")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hebrews 13:2 calls believers to a radical and counter-cultural practice of hospitality, one that extends beyond mere social pleasantries to a genuine, open-hearted welcome of the "stranger." In contemporary society, where physical travel may be less perilous and public accommodations more common, the principle of *philoxenia* remains profoundly relevant. It challenges us to look beyond our immediate circles and comfort zones, to intentionally seek out and welcome those who are new, different, marginalized, or in need. This might involve opening our homes, but it also extends to opening our communities, our churches, and our hearts to immigrants, refugees, new neighbors, or those who feel like outsiders. The motivation—that we might "entertain angels unawares"—serves as a powerful reminder that every act of kindness, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, carries the potential for divine significance and unexpected blessings. It cultivates a posture of readiness, reminding us that God often works through ordinary people and circumstances, and that by serving others, we are, in a very real sense, serving Christ Himself. This verse compels us to cultivate a generous spirit, to overcome fear or prejudice, and to embrace the transformative power of welcoming love.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might we be "forgetful" of hospitality in our modern lives, and what practical steps can we take to be more intentional?**
* **Beyond opening our physical homes, how can we extend "hospitality to strangers" in our communities, workplaces, and churches today?**
* **How does the idea of "entertaining angels unawares" change our perspective on seemingly ordinary encounters with people we don't know?**
* **What fears or hesitations might prevent us from practicing radical hospitality, and how can we overcome them through faith?**

### FAQ

**What does "entertain angels unawares" mean in the context of Hebrews 13:2?**

Answer: The phrase "entertain angels unawares" refers to the biblical precedent, primarily from the Old Testament, where individuals unknowingly provided hospitality to divine messengers (angels) who appeared in human form. The most prominent examples are Abraham welcoming three visitors, one of whom was the Lord Himself, in [Genesis 18:1-8](/genesis/18-1-8 "Abraham's Hospitality to Divine Visitors"), and Lot inviting two angels into his home in [Genesis 19:1-3](/genesis/19-1-3 "Lot's Hospitality to Angels"). The key element is "unawares," meaning the hosts were ignorant of their guests' true, supernatural identity. This highlights that their act of hospitality was selfless and unconditional, not motivated by a desire for supernatural reward. The verse uses these historical examples to encourage believers to practice hospitality to all, as one never knows what divine significance an encounter might hold.

**Is Hebrews 13:2 a command or merely a suggestion for believers?**

Answer: Hebrews 13:2 is presented as a clear command or exhortation, not merely a suggestion. The Greek phrasing "Be not forgetful" (μὴ ἐπιλανθάνεσθε) uses a negative imperative, which functions as a strong prohibition against neglecting hospitality. This grammatical construction indicates that practicing hospitality is an expected and essential aspect of Christian living, a duty that believers are actively called to remember and fulfill. It is part of a series of practical instructions in [Hebrews 13](/hebrews/13 "Practical Exhortations") that outline the moral and ethical responsibilities flowing from the profound theological truths presented earlier in the epistle.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hebrews 13:2 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the supreme example of divine hospitality, for He, the eternal Son of God, "emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Christ's Humiliation")). In the Incarnation, God Himself, through Christ, "entertained" humanity, a race of strangers alienated by sin, by entering our world and dwelling among us ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "The Word Became Flesh")). Jesus consistently extended radical hospitality to the marginalized, the outcast, and the sinner, welcoming them into His presence and offering them the ultimate spiritual home in God's Kingdom. He identified so closely with the "stranger" and the "least of these" that He declared, "Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me" ([Matthew 25:40](/matthew/25-40 "Jesus Identifies with the Needy")). Through His atoning sacrifice, Christ has opened the way for us, who were once "strangers and aliens," to become "fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God" ([Ephesians 2:19](/ephesians/2-19 "No Longer Strangers")). Therefore, when we practice hospitality, we are not only mirroring Christ's own actions but also participating in His ongoing mission of reconciliation, extending the welcoming love of God that He first extended to us, anticipating the day when He will welcome us fully into His eternal dwelling ([Revelation 3:20](/rev/3-20 "Jesus Stands at the Door")).

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

Matthew 25:35

For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:

Genesis 18:1

¶ And the LORD appeared unto him in the plains of Mamre: and he sat in the tent door in the heat of the day;

Genesis 19:3

And he pressed upon them greatly; and they turned in unto him, and entered into his house; and he made them a feast, and did bake unleavened bread, and they did eat.

Romans 12:13

Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.

1 Peter 4:9

Use hospitality one to another without grudging.

Matthew 25:43

I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not.

Titus 1:8

But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate;