Hebrews 2:8

KJV

Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing [that is] not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him.

KJV (with Strong's)

Thou hast put {G5293} all things {G3956} in subjection {G5293} under {G5270} his {G846} feet {G4228}. For {G1063} in {G1722} that he put {G5293} all {G3956} in subjection under {G5293} him {G846}, he left {G863} nothing that is not {G3762} put under {G506} him {G846}. But {G1161} now {G3568} we see {G3708} not yet {G3768} all things {G3956} put under {G5293} him {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

you put everything in subjection under his feet.”

In subjecting everything to him, he left nothing unsubjected to him. However, at present, we don’t see everything subjected to him — at least, not yet.

Berean Standard Bible

and placed everything under his feet.” When God subjected all things to him, He left nothing outside of his control. Yet at present we do not see everything subject to him.

American Standard Version

Thou didst put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he subjected all things unto him, he left nothing that is not subject to him. But now we see not yet all things subjected to him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 2:8 presents a profound theological statement, drawing from Psalm 8 to affirm God's ultimate intention for humanity's dominion, yet immediately pivoting to its perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The verse declares God's comprehensive subjugation of all things under Christ's authority, emphasizing that nothing is excluded from His ultimate rule. However, it realistically acknowledges the present tension, observing that this universal subjugation is "not yet" fully visible or realized in the current age, setting the stage for the subsequent revelation of Christ's present glory and future consummation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a pivotal point in the author's sustained argument for the superiority of Jesus Christ over angels, which began in [Hebrews 1](/hebrews/1 "Hebrews 1 - The Superiority of Christ"). Having established Christ's divine nature and preeminence as God's Son and heir in [Hebrews 1:1-14](/hebrews/1-1-14 "Hebrews 1:1-14 - Christ's Superiority Over Angels"), the author transitions in [Hebrews 2](/hebrews/2 "Hebrews 2 - The Son Made Like His Brothers") to explain *why* the Son, though superior, temporarily became lower than the angels—namely, to suffer death for humanity's salvation. [Hebrews 2:5-8a](/hebrews/2-5-8 "Hebrews 2:5-8 - The World to Come Not Subject to Angels") quotes [Psalm 8:4-6](/psalms/8-4-6 "Psalm 8:4-6 - Humanity's Appointed Dominion") to demonstrate that God's future world is not subject to angels, but to "man." Verse 8 then applies this prophetic psalm directly to Jesus, the "man" who perfectly embodies and fulfills this intended dominion, even as it introduces the "not yet" tension that sets up the glorious resolution in [Hebrews 2:9](/hebrews/2-9 "Hebrews 2:9 - Jesus Crowned with Glory and Honor").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The original audience of the Epistle to the Hebrews was likely Jewish Christians, possibly facing persecution or tempted to revert to Judaism. They would have been familiar with the Old Testament scriptures and the concept of angelic mediation, which was highly esteemed in Jewish tradition. The author's rigorous argument for Christ's supremacy over angels, therefore, directly addressed a potential theological stumbling block or source of doubt. The imagery of "putting all things in subjection under his feet" was a common ancient Near Eastern motif signifying complete conquest and absolute dominion. Kings would literally place their feet on the necks of defeated enemies as a public display of victory (e.g., [Joshua 10:24](/joshua/10-24 "Joshua 10:24 - Joshua's Commanders Tread on Kings' Necks")). This powerful visual would have immediately communicated the comprehensive nature of Christ's authority to the original readers.
* **Key Themes:** [Hebrews 2:8](/hebrews/2-8 "Hebrews 2:8 - All Things Subject to Christ, But Not Yet Fully Manifest") contributes significantly to several key themes within the book of Hebrews. Firstly, it reinforces the **Sovereignty and Dominion of Christ**, asserting His ultimate authority over all creation, echoing the declaration in [Hebrews 1:2](/hebrews/1-2 "Hebrews 1:2 - Christ as Heir of All Things"). Secondly, it introduces the crucial **"Already-Not Yet" Eschatology**, a tension between Christ's accomplished victory (the "already") and its full manifestation in the world (the "not yet"). This theme is central to understanding the Christian hope and endurance in the face of present difficulties. Thirdly, it highlights **Humanity's Intended Dominion Fulfilled in Christ**, showing that while humanity failed to achieve the dominion described in [Psalm 8](/psalms/8 "Psalm 8 - The Glory of God and Humanity's Place"), Jesus, as the perfect Man, perfectly embodies and secures this intended rule, becoming the "pioneer of their salvation" for many ([Hebrews 2:10](/hebrews/2-10 "Hebrews 2:10 - Jesus, the Pioneer of Salvation")). This verse thus bridges the Old Testament prophecy with its New Testament fulfillment in Christ.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **put in subjection (Greek, _hypotássō'_):** This word (G5293) means "to subordinate," "to obey," or "to put under." It signifies an arrangement of order where one is placed under the authority or control of another. In this context, it emphasizes God's active role in establishing Christ's supreme authority, making all things subject to Him.
* **all things (Greek, _pâs'_):** This term (G3956) is comprehensive, meaning "all," "every," or "the whole." Its repeated use in the verse ("all things," "all," "nothing," "all things") underscores the absolute and universal scope of Christ's dominion. It leaves no category of creation, visible or invisible, outside of His ultimate authority.
* **not yet (Greek, _oúpō'_):** This adverb (G3768) indicates a temporal qualification, signifying that something has not happened up to the present moment. Its inclusion here is critical, introducing the eschatological tension that, while Christ's dominion is decreed and secured, its full, visible manifestation is still future. It acknowledges the present reality of rebellion and disorder in the world.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet."**: This opening clause quotes [Psalm 8:6](/psalms/8-6 "Psalm 8:6 - Humanity's Dominion"), attributing to God the act of placing "all things" under "his" (Christ's) feet. This signifies a divine decree of absolute and comprehensive authority. The imagery of "under his feet" is an ancient idiom for complete conquest and dominion, indicating that Christ's rule is total and undisputed in God's plan.
* **"For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing [that is] not put under him."**: This clause elaborates on the preceding statement, emphasizing the completeness of the subjection. The particle "For" (G1063, _gár_) introduces an explanation or intensification. By stating that God "left nothing" unsubdued, the author asserts the universal scope of Christ's dominion. There is no realm, power, or entity that is ultimately outside of His sovereign authority.
* **"But now we see not yet all things put under him."**: This final, crucial clause introduces a stark contrast and a profound theological tension. The particle "But" (G1161, _dé_) signals a shift. While God has decreed Christ's universal dominion, and nothing is *not* put under Him in principle, the present reality is that this full subjection is "not yet" visibly realized. We still observe sin, suffering, rebellion, and death in the world, indicating that the full manifestation of Christ's reign is still future.

#### Literary Devices
The author of Hebrews masterfully employs several literary devices in this verse. **Quotation** is central, as the verse directly cites [Psalm 8:6](/psalms/8-6 "Psalm 8:6 - Humanity's Dominion"), reinterpreting its original application to humanity's dominion over creation and applying it prophetically to Jesus Christ. This highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy in the New Covenant. **Idiom** is evident in the phrase "put all things in subjection under his feet," a powerful and widely understood expression in ancient cultures signifying complete conquest and absolute authority. This vivid imagery conveys the comprehensive nature of Christ's rule. Furthermore, the verse uses **Antithesis** or **Juxtaposition** by presenting the "already" (God's decree of universal subjection) with the "not yet" (the present reality where this subjection is not fully visible). This creates a theological tension that is fundamental to Christian eschatology, acknowledging both Christ's accomplished victory and the future consummation of His kingdom. The repeated use of "all things" (Greek, _pâs_) also serves as **Emphasis**, underscoring the universal and exhaustive nature of Christ's dominion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 2:8 is a cornerstone for understanding the "already-not yet" dynamic of God's kingdom. It affirms the absolute, decreed sovereignty of Jesus Christ over all creation, a truth established by God Himself. Yet, it candidly acknowledges that the full, visible manifestation of this dominion is still future. This theological tension is not a contradiction but a reflection of the inaugurated eschatology of the New Testament – Christ has triumphed decisively over sin, death, and the devil through His resurrection and ascension, but the effects of His victory are not yet fully realized in a world still groaning under the weight of sin. This interim period calls for faith, patience, and perseverance, as believers live in the sure hope of Christ's ultimate and undeniable reign.

* [1 Corinthians 15:25-28](/1_corinthians/15-25-28 "1 Corinthians 15:25-28 - Christ's Reign Until All Enemies Are Subdued"): This passage explicitly states that Christ "must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet," echoing the language of subjection and confirming the future consummation of His rule, with death being the last enemy to be destroyed.
* [Philippians 3:20-21](/philippians/3-20-21 "Philippians 3:20-21 - Our Citizenship and Christ's Power to Subdue"): Paul speaks of Christ's power "even to subdue all things unto himself," reinforcing the comprehensive nature of His authority and His ability to transform our lowly bodies to be like His glorious body.
* [Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes the Kingdom of Our Lord"): This prophetic declaration proclaims the future moment when "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever," signifying the full and visible realization of Christ's universal dominion.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hebrews 2:8 offers a profound anchor for faith in a world that often appears chaotic and out of control. The assurance that God has placed "all things in subjection under his feet" reminds us that Christ's ultimate authority is not contingent upon our present circumstances or the visible state of the world. This truth provides immense comfort, knowing that even in the face of suffering, injustice, or the apparent triumph of evil, Christ is sovereign. The "not yet" aspect of the verse calls us to a mature faith that embraces both the present reality of struggle and the certain hope of future consummation. It encourages patience and perseverance, reminding us that our ultimate hope is not in immediate earthly perfection, but in the coming, fully manifest kingdom of Christ. This perspective empowers us to live with resilience, trusting God's perfect timing and His unwavering plan to bring all things under the perfect rule of His Son. It invites us to align our lives, our priorities, and our actions with this ultimate reality, living as citizens of a kingdom whose King is already victorious, even if His full reign is not yet universally acknowledged.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the "already-not yet" tension of Christ's dominion affect your perspective on current global events or personal struggles?**
* **If all things are ultimately under Christ's feet, what areas of your own life might still need to be brought into greater submission to His lordship?**
* **How can the certainty of Christ's ultimate victory encourage you to persevere in faith, even when circumstances seem to contradict His sovereignty?**
* **In what ways does this verse challenge a purely materialistic or secular worldview that denies ultimate divine authority?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the phrase "under his feet" in Hebrews 2:8?**

Answer: The phrase "under his feet" is a powerful and ancient idiom signifying complete conquest, absolute dominion, and undisputed authority. In the ancient Near East, a victorious king would often place his foot on the neck or back of a defeated enemy as a symbolic act of total subjugation and triumph. By stating that God has put "all things in subjection under his feet," the author of Hebrews is conveying that Christ's authority is comprehensive and absolute, encompassing all of creation and all powers, visible and invisible. It means that Christ has ultimate control and has definitively triumphed over all opposition, even if that triumph is not yet fully manifest in the present age, as the rest of the verse indicates. This imagery reinforces Christ's supreme lordship and His destined role as the sovereign ruler over all.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hebrews 2:8 finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus, who uniquely bridges the gap between God's original intention for humanity's dominion (as seen in [Psalm 8](/psalms/8 "Psalm 8 - The Glory of God and Humanity's Place")) and its perfect realization. While humanity, represented by Adam, failed to maintain dominion and fell into sin, Jesus, as the "last Adam" ([1 Corinthians 15:45](/1_corinthians/15-45 "1 Corinthians 15:45 - The Last Adam")), perfectly obeyed God and, through His incarnation, suffering, death, and resurrection, secured the ultimate victory over sin, death, and the devil ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). The "not yet" of [Hebrews 2:8](/hebrews/2-8 "Hebrews 2:8 - All Things Subject to Christ, But Not Yet Fully Manifest") is precisely what [Hebrews 2:9](/hebrews/2-9 "Hebrews 2:9 - Jesus Crowned with Glory and Honor") immediately addresses: "But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour." This highlights that Jesus, through His redemptive work, has already inaugurated His reign, and His present position at the right hand of God ([Ephesians 1:20-22](/ephesians/1-20-22 "Ephesians 1:20-22 - Christ's Exaltation and Authority")) signifies His current, active lordship over all things. The full, visible subjugation of all things will be consummated at His glorious return, when every knee will bow and every tongue confess His lordship ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Christ's Humiliation and Exaltation")), bringing the "already" of His victory into its final, universal "not yet" realization.

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

John 13:3

Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God;

1 Corinthians 15:27

For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith all things are put under [him, it is] manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him.

Psalms 8:6

Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all [things] under his feet:

1 Peter 3:22

Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.

1 Corinthians 15:24

Then [cometh] the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power.

1 Corinthians 15:25

For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet.

Daniel 7:14

And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion [is] an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom [that] which shall not be destroyed.