Hebrews 6:2

KJV

Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.

KJV (with Strong's)

Of the doctrine {G1322} of baptisms {G909}, and {G5037} of laying on {G1936} of hands {G5495}, and {G5037} of resurrection {G386} of the dead {G3498}, and {G2532} of eternal {G166} judgment {G2917}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and instruction about washings, s’mikhah, the resurrection of the dead and eternal punishment.

Berean Standard Bible

instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.

American Standard Version

of the teaching of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 6:2 continues the author's enumeration of foundational Christian doctrines, which he refers to as "the principles of the doctrine of Christ" (Hebrews 6:1). This verse lists four essential tenets of early Christian instruction: the doctrine of baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. These are presented not as advanced theological concepts, but as the elementary "milk" necessary for new believers, forming the bedrock upon which deeper spiritual maturity and understanding of Christ's work are to be built.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of the author's urgent appeal to his audience to "go on unto perfection" (Hebrews 6:1). It immediately follows the call to leave behind "the principles of the doctrine of Christ" and not to lay again the foundation of repentance from dead works and faith toward God. The list in [Hebrews 6:1-2](/hebrews/6-1-2 "Hebrews 6:1-2 - The Foundational Doctrines") outlines what the author considers basic, introductory teachings, contrasting them with the "solid food" he wishes to impart (as discussed in [Hebrews 5:11-14](/hebrews/5-11-14 "Hebrews 5:11-14 - From Milk to Solid Food")). The author implies that the audience, despite having been believers for some time, has not progressed beyond these elementary truths, hindering their ability to grasp the profound truths about Christ's superior priesthood and sacrifice.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Epistle to the Hebrews was written to Jewish Christians facing significant pressure, possibly persecution, and temptation to revert to the perceived security and familiarity of Judaism. These believers were struggling with spiritual lethargy and immaturity. The doctrines listed in [Hebrews 6:2](/hebrews/6-2 "Hebrews 6:2 - Foundational Christian Doctrines") would have been common points of instruction in the early church, distinguishing Christian practice from Jewish rituals. For instance, the discussion of "baptisms" likely contrasts Christian baptism with the various ritual washings prevalent in Judaism, while the "laying on of hands" had precedents in both Jewish and Christian contexts for blessing, commissioning, and imparting the Spirit. The concepts of resurrection and judgment were also familiar within Jewish thought, though given new significance and clarity in light of Christ's resurrection and impending return.

* **Key Themes:** [Hebrews 6:2](/hebrews/6-2 "Hebrews 6:2 - Foundational Christian Doctrines") contributes to several overarching themes in the epistle. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Foundational Doctrines**, enumerating the essential tenets that formed the initial instruction for converts in the early church. These are the "ABC's" of faith, necessary but not sufficient for spiritual growth. Secondly, it underscores the theme of **Spiritual Maturity**, serving as a benchmark from which believers are urged to advance. The author's primary concern throughout [Hebrews 5](/hebrews/5 "Hebrews 5 - Christ's Priesthood") and [Hebrews 6](/hebrews/6 "Hebrews 6 - Warning Against Apostasy") is the spiritual stagnation of his audience and the imperative to move beyond elementary teachings to a deeper understanding of Christ. Thirdly, the verse touches upon **Early Church Practices**, reflecting the common rituals and beliefs central to the nascent Christian community, such as baptism and the laying on of hands. Finally, the inclusion of "resurrection of the dead" and "eternal judgment" emphasizes **Eschatological Realities**, reminding believers of the future hope and accountability that shape present living, a theme consistently woven throughout the New Testament, as seen in passages like [1 Corinthians 15](/1_corinthians/15 "1 Corinthians 15 - The Resurrection of Christ and Believers") and [Matthew 25](/matthew/25 "Matthew 25 - Parables of the Kingdom and Final Judgment").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Doctrine (Greek, _didachḗ'_):** From *didaskō* (to teach), this term refers to instruction, either the act of teaching or the content that is taught. In this context, it signifies the body of foundational truths or teachings that were imparted to new converts in the early Christian community. It emphasizes the systematic nature of early Christian education.
* **Baptisms (Greek, _baptismós'_):** Derived from *baptizō* (to immerse), this word refers to ablution or washing, either ceremonial or Christian. The plural form is significant, potentially indicating various ritual washings prevalent in Judaism (cf. [Hebrews 9:10](/hebrews/9-10 "Hebrews 9:10 - Ceremonial Washings")) from which Christian baptism was distinguished, or perhaps different aspects or understandings of Christian baptism (e.g., water baptism, Spirit baptism, baptism into Christ's death). It signifies a transition from old covenant purifications to the new covenant's understanding of identification with Christ.
* **Resurrection (Greek, _anástasis'_):** From *anistēmi* (to stand up again), this term denotes a standing up again, specifically a resurrection from death. It is a core tenet of Christian faith, affirming the future bodily resurrection of the dead, guaranteed by Christ's own resurrection (cf. [1 Corinthians 15:20](/1_corinthians/15-20 "1 Corinthians 15:20 - Christ as the Firstfruits of Resurrection")).
* **Judgment (Greek, _kríma'_):** From *krinō* (to judge), this word refers to a decision, a verdict, or the function or effect of judging, whether for or against. In this context, "eternal judgment" points to the final, definitive assessment of all humanity by God, leading to eternal consequences, underscoring the accountability of every individual before their Creator (cf. [Revelation 20:11-15](/revelation/20-11-15 "Revelation 20:11-15 - The Great White Throne Judgment")).

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Of the doctrine of baptisms":** This phrase refers to the fundamental teaching concerning various forms of ritual washing or immersion. The plural "baptisms" suggests a comparison or distinction between the ceremonial washings of the Old Covenant (which purified the flesh but not the conscience) and the singular, transformative Christian baptism, which symbolizes spiritual cleansing, identification with Christ's death and resurrection, and initiation into the new covenant community. It was a primary instruction for converts.
* **"and of laying on of hands":** This refers to another foundational practice in the early church. The laying on of hands was associated with several significant acts: the imparting of the Holy Spirit (e.g., [Acts 8:17](/acts/8-17 "Acts 8:17 - Peter and John Lay Hands on Believers")), ordination for ministry (e.g., [1 Timothy 4:14](/1_timothy/4-14 "1 Timothy 4:14 - Paul's Instruction to Timothy")), healing, and blessing. It symbolized commissioning, the transfer of spiritual authority, or the reception of spiritual gifts.
* **"and of resurrection of the dead":** This clause emphasizes the core Christian belief in a future bodily resurrection for all humanity. It is a doctrine that distinguishes Christianity from some philosophical systems and was a point of contention even within Judaism (e.g., between Pharisees and Sadducees). For Christians, Christ's resurrection is the guarantee and firstfruits of this future event, offering hope and shaping the believer's perspective on life and death.
* **"and of eternal judgment":** This refers to the universal and final judgment by God, which will determine the eternal destiny of every individual. This doctrine underscores divine justice, accountability for one's life and choices, and the reality of eternal consequences. It serves as a powerful motivation for righteous living and a sober reminder of God's ultimate sovereignty.

#### Literary Devices
The author employs **Enumeration** by listing six foundational doctrines across [Hebrews 6:1-2](/hebrews/6-1-2 "Hebrews 6:1-2 - Foundational Doctrines"), four of which are in this verse. This systematic listing highlights the comprehensive nature of early Christian catechesis. Furthermore, there is an implicit **Juxtaposition** between these "elementary principles" and the "solid food" of deeper theological truths that the author desires to impart. This contrast serves to underscore the audience's spiritual immaturity and the urgency of their progression. The overall tone is **Didactic**, as the author is instructing and admonishing his readers, guiding them towards spiritual growth and a more profound understanding of their faith.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 6:2 outlines the essential building blocks of Christian faith, doctrines that were universally taught to new converts in the apostolic era. These are not merely historical curiosities but timeless truths that continue to form the bedrock of Christian understanding. They represent the initial encounter with the transformative power of the Gospel: repentance and faith (mentioned in [Hebrews 6:1](/hebrews/6-1 "Hebrews 6:1 - The Call to Maturity")), followed by the public declaration of faith through baptism, the recognition of spiritual gifting and commissioning through the laying on of hands, and the profound hope and accountability tied to the resurrection and final judgment. While foundational, these doctrines are not ends in themselves but serve as launchpads for a deeper, more mature walk with Christ, leading to a fuller comprehension of His person and work.

* [Acts 2:38](/acts/2-38 "Acts 2:38 - Peter's Call to Repentance and Baptism")
* [Romans 6:3-4](/romans/6-3-4 "Romans 6:3-4 - Baptism into Christ's Death and Resurrection")
* [1 Corinthians 15:51-52](/1_corinthians/15-51-52 "1 Corinthians 15:51-52 - The Resurrection of Believers")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hebrews 6:2 offers a profound challenge and encouragement to believers today. It reminds us that while foundational truths are indispensable, they are not the sum total of our spiritual journey. Just as a child progresses from basic ABCs to complex literature, so too must believers move beyond the elementary principles of faith to a deeper, more nuanced understanding of God's Word and character. This involves a continuous pursuit of spiritual maturity, which manifests in discerning good from evil, applying biblical truth to complex life situations, and growing in Christlikeness. It calls us to examine whether we are stagnant in our faith, clinging only to the "milk," or actively pressing on towards the "solid food" of mature doctrine and practical wisdom. Our spiritual health and effectiveness in the world depend on this ongoing growth.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "foundational doctrines" do I still need to deepen my understanding of, and how can I pursue that growth?**
* **In what areas of my spiritual life might I be clinging to "milk" when I should be seeking "solid food"?**
* **How does the reality of the "resurrection of the dead" and "eternal judgment" practically impact my daily decisions and priorities?**
* **What steps can I take to move from merely knowing about these doctrines to truly living them out in a mature way?**

### FAQ

**Why does the author use the plural "baptisms" instead of "baptism"?**

Answer: The use of the plural "baptisms" (Greek: *baptismós*) is a point of scholarly discussion. It likely refers to a contrast between the various ritual washings (ceremonial purifications, proselyte baptisms, John's baptism) common in Judaism, which the original Jewish Christian audience would have been familiar with, and the unique, singular Christian baptism. The author may be emphasizing that believers had moved beyond the efficacy of those Old Covenant "washings" (cf. [Hebrews 9:10](/hebrews/9-10 "Hebrews 9:10 - Old Covenant Rituals")) to embrace the new covenant's understanding of purification and identification with Christ through water baptism. It could also broadly encompass the concept of Spirit baptism or baptism into Christ's death, though the primary contrast is often seen with Jewish ceremonial washings.

**Are the doctrines listed in Hebrews 6:2 still foundational for Christians today?**

Answer: Absolutely. While the author encourages moving beyond them to maturity, these doctrines remain indispensable "principles of the doctrine of Christ." Repentance and faith (from [Hebrews 6:1](/hebrews/6-1 "Hebrews 6:1 - The Principles of Christ's Doctrine")) are the entry points to salvation. Water baptism is the outward sign of an inward transformation and identification with Christ. The laying on of hands continues in various forms for ordination, commissioning, and prayer for healing or the Holy Spirit. The belief in the bodily resurrection of the dead is a cornerstone of Christian hope (see [1 Corinthians 15:12-20](/1_corinthians/15-12-20 "1 Corinthians 15:12-20 - The Importance of Christ's Resurrection")). And the reality of eternal judgment underscores God's justice and our accountability, motivating holy living (as seen in [2 Corinthians 5:10](/2_corinthians/5-10 "2 Corinthians 5:10 - The Bema Seat Judgment")). These are not obsolete but fundamental truths upon which all deeper theological understanding is built.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Every foundational doctrine listed in [Hebrews 6:2](/hebrews/6-2 "Hebrews 6:2 - Foundational Christian Doctrines") finds its ultimate meaning, power, and fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The "doctrine of baptisms" culminates in Christian baptism, which symbolizes our union with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection (as beautifully articulated in [Romans 6:3-4](/romans/6-3-4 "Romans 6:3-4 - Baptism and New Life")). The "laying on of hands," while a practice of commissioning and blessing, points to Christ as the ultimate source of spiritual authority and the one through whom the Holy Spirit is poured out on believers (see [Acts 2:33](/acts/2-33 "Acts 2:33 - The Pouring Out of the Spirit")). The "resurrection of the dead" is not merely a future hope but a present reality because Christ Himself is "the resurrection and the life" ([John 11:25](/john/11-25 "John 11:25 - Jesus, the Resurrection and the Life")), being the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep ([1 Corinthians 15:20](/1_corinthians/15-20 "1 Corinthians 15:20 - Christ as the Firstfruits")). Finally, "eternal judgment" reveals Christ as the appointed Judge of all humanity ([John 5:22](/john/5-22 "John 5:22 - The Father Has Entrusted All Judgment to the Son")), whose perfect righteousness and sacrificial atonement are the only basis for a favorable verdict. Thus, these elementary principles, far from being mere abstract concepts, are concrete expressions of the saving work and sovereign authority of Jesus Christ, the very "author and perfecter of our faith" ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Looking to Jesus")).

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 15:13

But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen:

1 Corinthians 15:57

But thanks [be] to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Acts 17:31

Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by [that] man whom he hath ordained; [whereof] he hath given assurance unto all [men], in that he hath raised him from the dead.

Acts 17:32

¶ And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked: and others said, We will hear thee again of this [matter].

Acts 6:6

Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid [their] hands on them.

Acts 2:38

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Ecclesiastes 12:14

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