Hebrews 8:1

KJV

¶ Now of the things which we have spoken [this is] the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens;

KJV (with Strong's)

Now {G1161} of {G1909} the things which we have spoken {G3004} this is the sum {G2774}: We have {G2192} such {G5108} an high priest {G749}, who {G3739} is set {G2523} on {G1722} the right hand {G1188} of the throne {G2362} of the Majesty {G3172} in {G1722} the heavens {G3772};

Complete Jewish Bible

Here is the whole point of what we have been saying: we do have just such a cohen gadol as has been described. And he does sit at the right hand of HaG’dulah in heaven.

Berean Standard Bible

The point of what we are saying is this: We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven,

American Standard Version

Now in the things which we are saying the chief pointis this: We have such a high priest, who sat down on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 8:1 serves as a pivotal summary, encapsulating the author's preceding arguments concerning the superiority of Jesus Christ's high priesthood and the new covenant he mediates. It declares the ultimate, exalted position of Jesus as our High Priest, who is seated at the right hand of God's majestic throne in the heavens, signifying the completion of his redemptive work and his ongoing, supreme authority. This verse transitions the reader from the theological foundations of Christ's priesthood to its practical implications for the new covenant.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Hebrews 8:1 acts as a crucial hinge in the epistle, directly following an extensive theological exposition (chapters 4-7) on the nature and superiority of Christ's high priesthood. The author has meticulously built a case, first establishing Christ's divine Sonship and superiority over angels and Moses, then transitioning to his role as High Priest. Chapters 5-7 specifically detail Christ's qualifications as a High Priest, his appointment by God, his sinless perfection, and particularly his priesthood "after the order of Melchizedek" ([Hebrews 7:17](/hebrews/7-17 "Hebrews 7:17 - Christ a Priest Forever After the Order of Melchizedek")). This Melchizedekian priesthood is shown to be eternal, unchangeable, and superior to the Levitical system, which was temporary and imperfect. Thus, [Hebrews 8:1](/hebrews/8-1 "Hebrews 8:1 - Christ's Exalted Priesthood") functions as the grand conclusion to this sustained argument, stating that the "sum" or "main point" of all that has been discussed is the reality of our exalted High Priest. It then sets the stage for the subsequent discussion of the new covenant and the heavenly sanctuary in [Hebrews 8](/hebrews/8 "Hebrews 8 - The New Covenant and Heavenly Sanctuary") and [Hebrews 9](/hebrews/9 "Hebrews 9 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The audience of the book of Hebrews was likely Jewish Christians facing persecution or apostasy, tempted to revert to the familiar traditions and security of Judaism. They were accustomed to the elaborate sacrificial system, the Levitical priesthood, and the earthly temple rituals, which had been central to their religious identity for centuries. The author's argument for Christ's superior priesthood directly addresses these deeply ingrained cultural and religious norms. By emphasizing Christ's heavenly ministry and his exaltation, the author demonstrates that the new covenant, mediated by Christ, is not merely a continuation or slight modification of the old, but a radical, perfect fulfillment that renders the old obsolete. The concept of a high priest was deeply significant, as he was the sole individual permitted to enter the Most Holy Place once a year on the Day of Atonement ([Leviticus 16](/leviticus/16 "Leviticus 16 - The Day of Atonement")) to make atonement for the sins of the people. Christ's heavenly session fundamentally redefines this priestly function, moving it from an earthly, temporal, and repetitive ritual to a heavenly, eternal, and once-for-all reality.
* **Key Themes:** [Hebrews 8:1](/hebrews/8-1 "Hebrews 8:1 - Christ's Exalted Priesthood") powerfully encapsulates several key themes prevalent throughout the epistle. Foremost is the **Supremacy of Christ**, particularly his **Superior Priesthood**. The phrase "such an high priest" underscores Jesus' unique qualifications, unparalleled effectiveness, and eternal nature, contrasting sharply with the temporary, sin-prone, and mortal Aaronic priests ([Hebrews 7:23-24](/hebrews/7-23-24 "Hebrews 7:23-24 - The Permanence of Christ's Priesthood")). Another dominant theme is **Heavenly Reality versus Earthly Shadow**. Unlike the Levitical priests who served in an earthly tabernacle or temple, Jesus performs his priestly duties "in the heavens," indicating a shift from the physical, temporary shadows of the old covenant to the spiritual, eternal realities of the new. His position "on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty" signifies ultimate authority, power, and honor, directly connecting to the theme of **Divine Exaltation and Enthronement**. This enthronement means his work is eternally effective and represents the culmination of his redemptive work, placing him as the ultimate intercessor for believers ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Eternal Intercession")). Finally, the verse implicitly introduces the theme of the **New Covenant**, which will be explicitly developed in the subsequent verses of [Hebrews 8](/hebrews/8 "Hebrews 8 - The New Covenant and Heavenly Sanctuary"), highlighting that Christ's exalted position is the basis for a "better covenant" ([Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - A Better Covenant Based on Better Promises")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **sum (Greek, _kephálaion'_):** From G2774. This word, meaning "a principal thing" or "main point," signifies that the author is presenting the culmination or essential conclusion of all his preceding arguments. It's not merely a summary, but the *head* or *chief point* of what has been said, emphasizing its critical importance.
* **high priest (Greek, _archiereús'_):** From G749. This term refers to the chief priest, the highest priestly office in the Jewish system. By applying it to Jesus, the author establishes Christ's supreme priestly authority, but then immediately elevates it beyond the earthly model by describing his heavenly session and perfect ministry.
* **set (Greek, _kathízō'_):** From G2523. This verb means "to seat down" or "to set." In this context, it implies a deliberate, completed action of enthronement. It's not merely a casual sitting, but a permanent, established position of power and authority, signifying Christ's completed work of atonement and his ongoing reign.
* **Majesty (Greek, _megalōsýnē'_):** From G3172. Literally meaning "greatness" or "magnificence," this term is used here as a metonymy for God Himself, emphasizing His supreme glory, sovereignty, and transcendent power. Christ's placement at the right hand of this "Majesty" underscores His shared divine nature and unparalleled honor.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now of the things which we have spoken [this is] the sum:"** This opening clause acts as a powerful transition and a clear declaration of purpose. The author signals to the reader that he is about to present the essential, crowning truth derived from all the preceding detailed arguments about Christ's priesthood. It is the "main point" or "chief thing" that everything else has been building towards.
* **"We have such an high priest,"** This is the core declaration. The "we" refers to believers, emphasizing the personal and communal benefit of Christ's ministry. "Such an high priest" highlights Jesus' unique and unparalleled qualifications, perfection, and superiority compared to any earthly priest. He is not just *a* high priest, but *the* ultimate High Priest, perfectly suited for his role.
* **"who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens;"** This clause describes the exalted position and ongoing ministry of this High Priest. "Set on the right hand" signifies a position of ultimate authority, power, and honor, shared with God the Father. The "throne of the Majesty" refers to God's sovereign throne, emphasizing His supreme glory and rule. The phrase "in the heavens" contrasts sharply with the earthly tabernacle or temple where Levitical priests served, indicating that Christ's ministry is heavenly, spiritual, and eternal, not bound by earthly limitations. This is a statement of Christ's completed work, divine enthronement, and perpetual intercession.

#### Literary Devices
The author of Hebrews employs several powerful **Literary Devices** in this concise verse. The most prominent is **Summary Statement**, where the verse functions as a clear and emphatic encapsulation of the extensive preceding arguments, drawing the reader's attention to the central truth. There is also significant **Contrast**, implicitly comparing Christ's heavenly, exalted priesthood with the earthly, temporary Levitical priesthood that has been discussed at length. The phrase "such an high priest" uses **Emphasis** to highlight Christ's unique and incomparable nature. Furthermore, the description of Christ being "set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens" is rich in **Symbolism**. "Right hand" symbolizes ultimate authority, power, and honor. "Throne" symbolizes sovereignty and kingship. "Majesty" is a **Metonymy** for God Himself, representing His inherent glory and transcendent greatness. The "heavens" symbolize the spiritual, eternal realm, contrasting with the earthly. This symbolic language elevates Christ's status and the nature of his ministry.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 8:1 is a theological anchor, establishing the ultimate reality of Christ's completed redemptive work and his ongoing, authoritative intercession. It underscores the profound shift from the temporary, shadow-like provisions of the Old Covenant, centered on an earthly priesthood and sanctuary, to the eternal, perfect reality of the New Covenant, mediated by Christ in the heavenly sanctuary. This verse asserts Christ's divine authority and supreme position, affirming that his sacrifice was not only sufficient but also eternally effective, securing perfect access to God for believers. His session at the right hand of God signifies not only his triumph over sin and death but also his continuous role as our advocate and intercessor, ensuring the security and permanence of our salvation.

* [Romans 8:34](/romans/8-34 "Romans 8:34 - Christ's Intercession at God's Right Hand")
* [Ephesians 1:20-21](/ephesians/1-20-21 "Ephesians 1:20-21 - Christ Seated at God's Right Hand, Far Above All Rule")
* [1 Peter 3:22](/1_peter/3-22 "1 Peter 3:22 - Christ's Ascension and Subjection of Authorities")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hebrews 8:1 offers profound comfort and assurance to believers. To know that "we have such an high priest" who is not merely present, but "set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens," transforms our understanding of access to God and the security of our faith. This truth means that our salvation is not dependent on our fluctuating performance or the imperfect efforts of human mediators, but on the perfect, completed, and eternally effective work of Jesus Christ. His exalted position guarantees that his intercession for us is constant and powerful, providing grace in times of need and ensuring our perseverance. It invites us to live with confidence, boldness, and hope, knowing that our ultimate advocate reigns supreme, and that our future is secured by his unshakeable authority. This heavenly reality should inspire worship, cultivate resilience in trials, and motivate us to live lives worthy of the glorious High Priest we serve.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the truth of Jesus being "set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty" impact your confidence in prayer and your access to God?**
* **In what ways does understanding Christ's exalted position as High Priest provide assurance and security for your salvation?**
* **How might focusing on Christ's heavenly ministry, as described in this verse, shift your perspective on earthly challenges and the temporary nature of this world?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of Jesus being "set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty"?**

Answer: The phrase "set on the right hand" signifies a position of ultimate authority, power, and honor. In ancient cultures, sitting at the right hand of a king or ruler indicated a place of supreme favor, shared authority, and intimate counsel. For Jesus, it means his redemptive work is complete, his victory over sin and death is absolute, and he now reigns with God the Father in full divine authority. "The throne of the Majesty" emphasizes the supreme glory and sovereignty of God, underscoring that Christ's position is one of divine exaltation and co-regency. This is not a temporary assignment but a permanent, established reality, affirming his eternal reign and ongoing intercession for believers.

**How does Hebrews 8:1 relate to the Old Testament sacrificial system?**

Answer: Hebrews 8:1 directly contrasts with and fulfills the Old Testament sacrificial system. The Old Covenant system, with its earthly tabernacle/temple, Levitical priests, and animal sacrifices, was a "shadow" or "copy" of heavenly realities ([Hebrews 8:5](/hebrews/8-5 "Hebrews 8:5 - The Earthly Sanctuary a Copy of the Heavenly")). The high priest under the Old Covenant performed repetitive, imperfect rituals that could not permanently cleanse sin. By declaring that "we have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens," the author asserts that Jesus' priesthood is superior because it operates in the true, heavenly sanctuary. His single, perfect sacrifice has permanently atoned for sin, rendering the Old Covenant system obsolete and establishing a "better covenant" ([Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - A Better Covenant Based on Better Promises")) based on better promises.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hebrews 8:1 stands as a triumphant declaration of Christ's ultimate fulfillment of all Old Testament types and shadows, particularly the high priestly office. The Levitical high priests, with their annual entry into the Most Holy Place, were mere earthly reflections of the true, heavenly High Priest to come. Jesus, as the "such an high priest" of this verse, transcends and perfects their ministry. His session "on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens" signifies his completed work of atonement on the cross, his glorious resurrection, and his triumphant ascension, as recorded in passages like [Mark 16:19](/mark/16-19 "Mark 16:19 - Jesus' Ascension and Seating at God's Right Hand") and [Acts 2:33](/acts/2-33 "Acts 2:33 - Peter's Sermon: Jesus Exalted to God's Right Hand"). This exalted position is not merely one of rest, but of active, ongoing intercession for his people, as [Romans 8:34](/romans/8-34 "Romans 8:34 - Christ's Intercession at God's Right Hand") affirms, ensuring our access to God and the security of our salvation. He is the one who has entered "into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us" ([Hebrews 9:24](/hebrews/9-24 "Hebrews 9:24 - Christ's Entry into Heaven Itself")), forever serving as our perfect mediator and advocate, thereby fulfilling the deepest longing for a High Priest who is both divine and human, perfectly holy, and eternally effective.

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

Colossians 3:1

¶ If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.

Hebrews 1:3

Who being the brightness of [his] glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;

Revelation 3:21

To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.

Hebrews 12:2

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of [our] faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Hebrews 7:26

For such an high priest became us, [who is] holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;

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 2:17

Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto [his] brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things [pertaining] to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.