Hebrews 4:13

KJV

Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things [are] naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

KJV (with Strong's)

Neither {G2532}{G3756} is there {G2076} any creature {G2937} that is not manifest {G852} in his {G846} sight {G1799}: but {G1161} all things {G3956} are naked {G1131} and {G2532} opened {G5136} unto the eyes {G3788} of him {G846} with {G4314} whom {G3739} we have {G2254} to do {G3056}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Before God, nothing created is hidden, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of him to whom we must render an account.

Berean Standard Bible

Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight; everything is uncovered and exposed before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.

American Standard Version

And there is no creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and laid open before the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 4:13 powerfully declares the absolute omniscience and omnipresence of God, asserting that no created being or hidden aspect of existence can escape His penetrating gaze. Everything in the universe, including the deepest thoughts, intentions, and hidden motives of the human heart, lies completely exposed and vulnerable before the eyes of the One with whom all humanity ultimately stands in relationship and accountability. This verse functions as a solemn reminder of divine transparency and an invitation to live authentically before the Creator.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Hebrews 4:13 serves as the climactic conclusion to a profound theological argument concerning the nature and power of God's Word and the importance of entering His promised rest. Immediately preceding it, [Hebrews 4:12](/hebrews/4-12 "Hebrews 4:12 - The Living and Active Word of God") describes the Word of God as living, active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Verse 13 extends this concept from the analytical power of the Word to the all-encompassing sight of God Himself, emphasizing that the discernment of the Word is a reflection of God's own perfect knowledge. The broader context of [Hebrews 3-4](/hebrews/3 "Hebrews 3 - The Warning Against Unbelief") warns against the unbelief of the Israelites in the wilderness, who failed to enter God's rest, thereby urging the readers to diligently strive to enter that rest, lest they fall by similar disobedience. The verse underscores that such disobedience cannot be hidden from God.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The epistle to the Hebrews was written to Jewish Christians facing persecution and temptation to revert to Judaism. The author consistently elevates Christ above Old Testament figures, institutions, and practices. In this cultural milieu, the concept of a God who sees all was not new; it was deeply rooted in Old Testament theology (e.g., [Psalm 139:1-12](/psalms/139-1-12 "Psalm 139:1-12 - God's Omniscience and Omnipresence") or [Proverbs 15:3](/proverbs/15-3 "Proverbs 15:3 - The Eyes of the Lord")). However, the specific imagery of "naked and opened" carries a particular force. In the ancient world, exposure or nakedness often signified vulnerability, shame, or complete lack of defense before a superior. The idea of being "opened" (as will be explored in "Key Word Analysis") evokes a sacrificial or surgical context, implying a complete laying bare of the inner being. This would have resonated with readers familiar with temple sacrifices and the meticulous examination required.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within Hebrews and broader biblical theology. First, it highlights God's **omniscience and omnipresence**, affirming that there is no place or state of being where one can hide from God's gaze. His knowledge is absolute, extending to every part of creation and every hidden corner of the human heart, as seen in [Psalm 139](/psalms/139 "Psalm 139 - God's Omnipresence and Omniscience"). Second, it establishes the theme of **divine transparency and ultimate accountability**. The imagery of being "naked and opened" underscores that all our actions, motives, and even unspoken thoughts are fully exposed to God, leading to the understanding that we will all give an account to Him, a truth echoed in [Romans 14:12](/romans/14-12 "Romans 14:12 - Each Will Give an Account"). Finally, the phrase "him with whom we have to do" emphasizes the **nature of humanity's relationship with God**. He is not a distant, indifferent deity, but the sovereign Creator and Judge to whom all are fundamentally related and ultimately responsible, yet also the High Priest who understands our weaknesses, as described later in [Hebrews 4:14-16](/hebrews/4-14-16 "Hebrews 4:14-16 - Jesus Our Great High Priest").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **naked (Greek, _gymnós_):** From uncertain affinity, this word literally means "nude" or "unclothed," but can be used in a relative or figurative sense. In this context, it signifies a state of complete exposure, vulnerability, and lack of concealment. It implies that nothing about a creature, whether physical or spiritual, is covered or hidden from God's view.
* **opened (Greek, _trachēlízō_):** Derived from a word meaning "neck" or "throat," this powerful and rare verb literally means "to seize by the throat or neck." Figuratively, it conveys the act of laying bare or exposing the gullet of a victim for killing, or a wrestler being pinned in a completely vulnerable position. It suggests a state of utter defenselessness and complete, unreserved exposure, as if one's innermost being, down to the very core of one's thoughts and intentions, is laid open for divine scrutiny.
* **to do (Greek, _lógos_):** This word, meaning "something said," "thought," "reasoning," or "topic," is used here in the phrase "with whom we have to do." While _lógos_ is famously used to refer to Christ as the "Divine Expression" in [John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Was God"), in this context, "with whom we have to do" (literally, "to whom is our word/account") points to the one with whom we have an ultimate reckoning or relationship. It signifies the one to whom we are accountable, the ultimate arbiter of truth and justice, the one to whom our lives are laid bare.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight:"** This opening clause establishes God's absolute omniscience and omnipresence. It asserts that there is no created being—whether angelic, human, or any other part of creation—that can escape God's direct, penetrating observation. "Manifest in his sight" means fully revealed, evident, and unconcealed before Him. This negates any possibility of hiddenness or obscurity from the divine perspective.
* **"but all things [are] naked and opened"**: This phrase intensifies the preceding statement by using vivid imagery. "All things" refers to the totality of creation, encompassing every aspect of existence, including the deepest recesses of the human heart and mind. To be "naked" signifies being completely unclothed, exposed, and vulnerable, without any covering or pretense. To be "opened" (from _trachēlízō_) adds a layer of visceral imagery, implying a state of being laid bare, as if a throat were exposed for a sacrifice or dissection, revealing the innermost parts. Together, these terms convey a complete and inescapable transparency before God.
* **"unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do."** This concluding phrase identifies the subject of this divine gaze. "The eyes of him" emphasizes God's active, discerning vision. "Him with whom we have to do" clarifies that this all-seeing God is not a distant, impersonal force, but the very One to whom humanity is ultimately accountable, the One with whom we stand in a fundamental, inescapable relationship of responsibility and judgment. It implies that our lives are a matter of divine concern and that we will ultimately render an account to Him.

#### Literary Devices
Hebrews 4:13 employs several powerful **literary devices** to convey its profound message. The use of **merism** in "Neither is there any creature that is not manifest... but all things" emphasizes totality by stating both the negative and positive aspects, leaving no room for exception. The verse is rich in **imagery**, particularly through the striking metaphors of "naked and opened." "Naked" evokes vulnerability, lack of concealment, and complete exposure, while "opened" (from _trachēlízō_) provides a vivid, almost surgical or sacrificial, image of being laid bare to the innermost parts, leaving nothing hidden. This creates a powerful visual of utter transparency and defenselessness before God. Furthermore, the phrase "unto the eyes of him" uses **anthropomorphism**, attributing human characteristics (eyes) to God to help the reader grasp His active and discerning gaze, even though God is spirit. The cumulative effect of these devices is to impress upon the reader the inescapable, all-encompassing nature of divine knowledge and the ultimate accountability of all creation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 4:13 profoundly shapes our understanding of God's character and our relationship with Him. It underscores God's absolute sovereignty and perfect knowledge, affirming that His omniscience is not merely a passive awareness but an active, penetrating gaze that discerns the truth of all things, even the hidden motives of the heart. This truth forms the foundation for divine justice, as nothing can be concealed from the ultimate Judge. It also speaks to the profound reality of human accountability; our lives are lived in full view of the One to whom we owe our existence and allegiance. While this can be a sobering thought, it also provides comfort for the sincere believer, knowing that God sees and understands their genuine faith, struggles, and intentions, even when others do not. This transparency before God calls for a life of authenticity and integrity, free from pretense.

* [Proverbs 15:3](/proverbs/15-3 "Proverbs 15:3 - The Eyes of the Lord are Everywhere")
* [Psalm 139:1-4](/psalms/139-1-4 "Psalm 139:1-4 - God Knows My Thoughts")
* [Romans 14:12](/romans/14-12 "Romans 14:12 - Each of Us Will Give an Account to God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hebrews 4:13 stands as both a solemn warning and a profound comfort, inviting us to live lives of genuine transparency before God. For those who might be tempted to live a double life, to harbor secret sins, or to deceive others, this verse serves as a stark reminder that all pretense is futile before the all-seeing eyes of God. True repentance, therefore, must begin with honest confession and a willingness to lay bare our hearts before Him, knowing that He already sees everything. Conversely, for the believer striving for righteousness, this truth offers immense solace. God knows our deepest struggles, our sincere intentions, and the faith that often goes unseen by human eyes. He understands our weaknesses perfectly and sees the genuine desires of our hearts even amidst our imperfections. This encourages us to approach Him with authenticity, to lay down our burdens, and to trust in His perfect understanding and unwavering grace. It calls us to live integrated lives where our private thoughts align with our public actions, knowing that we are fully known and fully loved by the One with whom we ultimately have to do.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I tend to hide or pretend, even from myself?**
* **How does the truth that God sees everything—my thoughts, motives, and actions—impact my daily choices and my walk of faith?**
* **How can the "naked and opened" nature of my being before God be a source of comfort rather than fear?**
* **What does it mean practically to live a life of transparency before "him with whom we have to do"?**

### FAQ
**What does the phrase "naked and opened" truly mean in the context of Hebrews 4:13?**

Answer: The phrase "naked and opened" powerfully conveys a state of absolute and inescapable exposure before God. "Naked" (Greek _gymnós_) literally means unclothed or exposed, implying a complete lack of covering or concealment. There is nothing hidden, no pretense, no disguise that can obscure anything from God's view. "Opened" (Greek _trachēlízō_) is even more vivid. It comes from a root related to the neck or throat and suggests being laid bare, as an animal might be laid on its back with its throat exposed for sacrifice or dissection, or a wrestler pinned in a completely vulnerable position. Together, these terms create a striking image of utter defenselessness and complete transparency. It means that not only our external actions but also our deepest thoughts, intentions, and the very core of our being are fully revealed and laid bare before God's penetrating gaze, as if surgically examined. This imagery emphasizes that God's knowledge is not superficial but penetrates to the deepest parts of our inner lives, discerning the true intentions of the heart, as also implied in [Hebrews 4:12](/hebrews/4-12 "Hebrews 4:12 - The Word Discerning Thoughts and Intentions").

**How can God's omniscience, as described in this verse, be both comforting and challenging for a believer?**

Answer: God's omniscience is both comforting and challenging. It is **challenging** because it reminds us that all our sins, secret thoughts, and hidden motives are fully known to God. There is no escaping His judgment for unconfessed sin, and any attempt to deceive or live a double life is futile. This truth calls us to genuine repentance, honesty, and integrity in our walk with God. However, it is profoundly **comforting** because it assures us that God truly knows us completely. He sees our sincere faith, even when it is weak or unseen by others. He understands our struggles, our pain, our deepest desires for righteousness, and the intentions of our hearts, even when our actions fall short. We don't need to pretend or put on a facade before Him. This perfect understanding means He can provide exactly the grace and mercy we need, as promised in [Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approaching the Throne of Grace with Confidence"). It fosters a deep sense of security and intimacy, knowing we are fully known and still loved.

**Who is "him with whom we have to do" in this verse?**

Answer: "Him with whom we have to do" refers to God Himself. The broader context of Hebrews, particularly the preceding verse [Hebrews 4:12](/hebrews/4-12 "Hebrews 4:12 - The Living and Active Word of God"), speaks of the Word of God, which is often understood as a reference to Christ. However, the phrase "him with whom we have to do" (Greek: _pros hon hēmin ho logos_) literally means "to whom is our account" or "to whom our word/reckoning belongs." This points directly to the ultimate authority and judge to whom all humanity is accountable. While Christ, as the [Son of God](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, the Son of God"), is the one through whom God speaks and acts, and through whom we approach God, the primary referent here is the divine being in His capacity as the all-seeing, all-knowing Creator and Judge. It emphasizes that our lives are lived in a fundamental and inescapable relationship of responsibility to God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hebrews 4:13, with its stark declaration of God's absolute omniscience and the complete exposure of all creation before Him, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in several profound ways. First, Jesus Christ is Himself the very [Word of God](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Became Flesh") (Greek: _Logos_) who is "living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword" ([Hebrews 4:12](/hebrews/4-12 "Hebrews 4:12 - The Word of God")), discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. As the incarnate Son, Jesus possesses the very omniscience described in verse 13. He knows the hearts of all people ([John 2:24-25](/john/2-24-25 "John 2:24-25 - Jesus Knew All People")), and He is the one before whom all will ultimately stand to give an account ([Romans 14:10](/romans/14-10 "Romans 14:10 - We Will All Stand Before the Judgment Seat of Christ")). Second, while we are "naked and opened" before God, Christ is our great [High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus Our Great High Priest"), who has passed through the heavens. Because He was tempted in every respect as we are, yet without sin ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus Sympathizes with Our Weaknesses")), He fully understands our weaknesses and struggles. This means that our exposure before God is not merely for judgment, but also for mercy and grace. Through Christ's atoning sacrifice, our nakedness is covered, and our vulnerability is met with divine compassion. We are called to approach the [throne of grace with confidence](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approaching the Throne of Grace Boldly"), not because we are hidden, but because our High Priest, who sees and knows all, has made a way for us to be accepted and forgiven, even in our utter transparency. He is the one with whom we have to do, not as a terrifying judge, but as the merciful Savior and faithful Advocate ([1_john/2-1-2](/1_john/2-1-2 "1 John 2:1-2 - Christ Our Advocate")).

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 Corinthians 4:5

Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.

Psalms 33:13

The LORD looketh from heaven; he beholdeth all the sons of men.

Psalms 33:15

He fashioneth their hearts alike; he considereth all their works.

Proverbs 15:3

¶ The eyes of the LORD [are] in every place, beholding the evil and the good.

Ecclesiastes 12:14

For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether [it be] good, or whether [it be] evil.

1 Samuel 16:7

But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for [the LORD seeth] not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.

Jeremiah 17:10

I the LORD search the heart, [I] try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, [and] according to the fruit of his doings.