Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity.
Who can {G1410} have compassion {G3356} on the ignorant {G50}, and {G2532} on them that are out of the way {G4105}; for {G1893} that he {G4029} himself {G846} also {G2532} is compassed {G4029} with infirmity {G769}.
He can deal gently with the ignorant and with those who go astray, since he too is subject to weakness.
He is able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and misguided, since he himself is beset by weakness.
who can bear gently with the ignorant and erring, for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity;
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Hebrews 4:15
For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as [we are, yet] without sin. -
Hebrews 2:18
For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted. -
2 Corinthians 12:9
And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. -
2 Corinthians 12:10
Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. -
Hebrews 7:28
For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was since the law, [maketh] the Son, who is consecrated for evermore. -
Hebrews 12:13
And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed. -
Galatians 4:13
Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first.
Context
Hebrews 5:2 is part of a larger section (Hebrews 5:1-10) that describes the qualifications of a high priest, laying the groundwork for the author's argument concerning the superiority of Jesus Christ's priesthood. The immediate preceding verse, Hebrews 5:1, establishes that every high priest is taken from among men to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. Verse 2 then elaborates on a crucial quality: the high priest's ability to show compassion due to his own shared human frailty. This sets the stage for portraying Jesus not only as a divine priest but also as one who fully understands the human condition, even though He was without sin.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The KJV phrase "can have compassion" comes from the Greek word metriopatheō (μετριοπαθέω), which implies a measured or gentle feeling, not merely pity but a sympathetic understanding that arises from shared experience. It suggests a patient and forbearing attitude. "Ignorant" translates agnoeō (ἀγνοέω), referring to those who err unwittingly or without full knowledge. "Out of the way" is from planaō (πλανάω), meaning to wander, to be led astray, or to be deceived. Both terms describe different forms of human error. Finally, "compassed with infirmity" uses astheneia (ἀσθένεια), denoting weakness, frailty, or sickness, encompassing both physical and moral susceptibility to sin. This highlights the shared human condition that allows for empathy.
Practical Application
Hebrews 5:2 offers profound lessons for believers today. It reminds us that: