Philippians 2:10

KJV

That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of [things] in heaven, and [things] in earth, and [things] under the earth;

KJV (with Strong's)

That {G2443} at {G1722} the name {G3686} of Jesus {G2424} every {G3956} knee {G1119} should bow {G2578}, of things in heaven {G2032}, and {G2532} things in earth {G1919}, and {G2532} things under the earth {G2709};

Complete Jewish Bible

that in honor of the name given Yeshua,
every knee will bow —
in heaven, on earth and under the earth —

Berean Standard Bible

that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

American Standard Version

that in the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven and things on earth and things under the earth,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Philippians 2:10 stands as a profound declaration of the universal sovereignty and ultimate exaltation of Jesus Christ. Following His unparalleled humility, obedience, and sacrificial death, God the Father supremely honored Him, bestowing upon Him a name above all names. This verse proclaims that, as a direct consequence of this divine exaltation, every created being—whether in the celestial realms, upon the earth, or in the underworld—will ultimately acknowledge and submit to Jesus' supreme authority, bending the knee in homage and worship. It powerfully asserts Christ's absolute dominion over all existence, affirming His divine identity and rightful place as Lord of all.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Philippians 2:10 is an integral part of the renowned "Christ Hymn" (often considered to span [Philippians 2:5-11](/philippians/2-5-11 "Philippians 2:5-11 - The Christ Hymn")), which serves as the theological core of Paul's exhortation to unity and humility within the Philippian church. Paul presents Christ's example as the ultimate model for believers: though existing in the very nature of God, Jesus did not cling to His divine prerogatives but willingly "emptied himself" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Self-Emptying")) by taking on human form and humbling Himself to the point of death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience to Death")). Because of this profound obedience and self-sacrifice, God the Father "highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name" ([Philippians 2:9](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9 - God's Exaltation of Jesus")). Verse 10 directly elaborates on the universal consequence of this divine exaltation, leading to the climactic confession in [Philippians 2:11](/philippians/2-11 "Philippians 2:11 - Every Tongue Confesses"). The entire hymn contrasts Christ's divine glory with His voluntary humiliation, culminating in His ultimate vindication and universal Lordship, thereby providing a powerful theological foundation for Paul's practical ethical instructions to the Philippians.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Philippi was a Roman colony, proud of its Roman citizenship and deeply influenced by Roman culture, including the imperial cult which demanded worship of the emperor as "Lord" (Kyrios). In this environment, Paul's declaration that "Jesus is Lord" ([Philippians 2:11](/philippians/2-11 "Philippians 2:11 - Confession of Jesus as Lord")) was not merely a theological statement but a counter-cultural and potentially subversive political claim. The concept of "bowing the knee" was a common gesture of homage, respect, and submission, often performed before kings, emperors, or deities. Furthermore, Paul's language in Philippians 2:10-11 directly alludes to [Isaiah 45:23](/isaiah/45-23 "Isaiah 45:23 - Every Knee Will Bow to Yahweh"), where Yahweh declares that "to me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear allegiance." By applying this Old Testament prophecy—originally referring to God Himself—to Jesus, Paul makes a profound statement about Jesus' divine identity and co-equality with God the Father, a radical claim in both Jewish and Roman contexts.

* **Key Themes:** Philippians 2:10 contributes significantly to several major theological themes within the book of Philippians and broader Christian theology. Firstly, it underscores the **Universal Lordship and Sovereignty of Jesus Christ**, asserting His dominion over all creation, transcending all realms of existence. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Exaltation and Vindication**, demonstrating that God the Father's response to Christ's humility was to restore Him to a position of supreme authority and honor, publicly vindicating His perfect obedience. Thirdly, the verse speaks to the theme of **Comprehensive Submission**, emphasizing that whether willingly or unwillingly, all beings will ultimately acknowledge Jesus' supreme authority. This universal homage underscores His ultimate triumph over all powers and principalities, leading to the **Ultimate Triumph of God's Plan** through Christ. Finally, it reinforces the theme of **Worship**, as the bending of the knee signifies profound reverence and adoration, anticipating the eschatological reality where all creation will worship the exalted Christ, as seen in passages like [Revelation 5:13](/revelation/5-13 "Revelation 5:13 - Universal Worship of the Lamb").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **name (Greek, _ónoma_):** (G3686) More than a mere label, "name" in ancient thought, especially in a biblical context, represents the very essence, character, authority, and reputation of a person. To bow "at the name of Jesus" is therefore to bow to His person, His divine authority, His inherent character as God, and the power He embodies. It signifies complete recognition of who He is.
* **knee (Greek, _góny_):** (G1119) The "knee" is the physical part of the body that bends in an act of homage, submission, or worship. The act of bending the knee (proskynesis) is a universal sign of reverence and acknowledgment of superior authority or divinity. The emphasis on "every knee" underscores the absolute universality of this submission.
* **bow (Greek, _kámptō_):** (G2578) This verb means "to bend." When combined with "knee," it describes the physical act of prostration or kneeling in humility, reverence, or submission. In this context, it denotes the forced or willing acknowledgment of Jesus' supreme authority and Lordship.
* **under the earth (Greek, _katachthónios_):** (G2709) This term refers to the subterranean regions, often understood as the underworld, the realm of the dead, or departed spirits. Its inclusion, alongside "in heaven" and "in earth," completes a merism, signifying that Christ's dominion extends to every conceivable sphere of existence, leaving no realm or being outside His ultimate authority.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That at the name of Jesus":** The Greek conjunction `hína` (G2443, "in order that") introduces a purpose clause, indicating the divine intention behind God's exaltation of Jesus. The phrase "at the name of Jesus" signifies that the homage is rendered not merely to a title, but to the person and supreme authority of Jesus Himself, as embodied in His name. It is the direct result of God giving Him "the name that is above every name" ([Philippians 2:9](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9 - God's Exaltation of Jesus")).
* **"every knee should bow":** This clause emphatically declares the universal and inevitable act of submission. "Every knee" leaves no exception, signifying that all beings, without distinction, will eventually perform this gesture of homage. "Should bow" indicates the necessary and appropriate response to Christ's exalted status, whether it be a willing act of worship from believers or a forced acknowledgment from those who oppose Him.
* **"of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;":** This tripartite phrase is a comprehensive merism, a literary device that uses a list of parts to represent a whole. "Things in heaven" refers to celestial beings, including angels and heavenly hosts. "Things in earth" encompasses all humanity, living creatures, and earthly powers. "Things under the earth" refers to the departed spirits, those in the underworld, or even demonic entities. Together, these three realms signify the totality of creation, emphasizing that Jesus' dominion is absolute and extends over every single being in the cosmos, leaving no category outside His ultimate authority.

#### Literary Devices
The profound theological statement of Philippians 2:10 is amplified through several key literary devices. The most prominent is **Allusion**, specifically to [Isaiah 45:23](/isaiah/45-23 "Isaiah 45:23 - Every Knee Bows to Yahweh"), where Yahweh (God) declares that "to me every knee shall bow." By applying this same divine declaration to Jesus, Paul powerfully asserts Christ's co-equality with God and His divine identity, a central tenet of Christian Christology. Another significant device is **Merism**, evident in the phrase "of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth." This figure of speech uses a comprehensive list of parts (the three realms of existence) to represent the totality of creation, thereby emphasizing the absolute and universal scope of Christ's dominion. This also functions as a form of **Hyperbole** to underscore the sweeping nature of Christ's authority, leaving no being or realm excluded from His ultimate sovereignty. The repetition of "things in" (implied) and the conjunction "and" also contribute to the rhythmic and emphatic quality of the declaration, reinforcing the idea of a complete and undeniable submission.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Philippians 2:10 stands as a cornerstone for understanding the ultimate triumph of God's redemptive plan through Jesus Christ. It underscores the eschatological reality that all creation will ultimately acknowledge Jesus' supreme Lordship, whether in willing worship or compelled submission. This universal homage is not merely a future event but a present truth that shapes the believer's life, calling for voluntary submission and worship now. The verse connects the humiliation of Christ (His kenosis and death) directly to His exaltation, demonstrating God's justice and faithfulness in honoring His obedient Son. It reassures believers of Christ's ultimate victory over all opposing forces, providing comfort and hope in a world that often seems to defy divine authority.

* [Isaiah 45:23](/isaiah/45-23 "Isaiah 45:23 - Yahweh's Universal Sovereignty"): "By myself I have sworn; from my mouth has gone out in righteousness a word that shall not return: ‘To me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear allegiance.’"
* [Romans 14:11](/romans/14-11 "Romans 14:11 - All Will Stand Before God"): "For it is written, ‘As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.’"
* [Revelation 5:13](/revelation/5-13 "Revelation 5:13 - Universal Worship of the Lamb"): "And I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, and all that is in them, saying, ‘To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor and glory and might forever and ever!’"

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Philippians 2:10 offers profound comfort, challenge, and motivation for the believer. Knowing that "every knee will bow" to Jesus provides immense assurance in His ultimate sovereignty, even when circumstances seem chaotic or His Lordship appears challenged in the world. This truth calls us to live lives of voluntary submission and worship *now*, aligning our hearts and actions with the inevitable future reality. It reminds us that our present obedience is not in vain, but is a participation in the unfolding of God's cosmic plan. Furthermore, this verse inspires us to share the good news of Christ's reign, knowing that His kingdom will ultimately prevail and that all will one day acknowledge Him. It also fosters humility, as we recognize our own place within the vast creation that will bow before Him, prompting us to live in awe and reverence of His matchless glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the universal sovereignty of Jesus, as declared in this verse, impact your sense of security and hope in a turbulent world?**
* **What does it mean for you, personally, to "bow the knee" to Jesus in your daily life, beyond a mere intellectual acknowledgment?**
* **In what ways might living in light of Christ's ultimate exaltation transform your priorities and actions?**
* **How does the knowledge that "things under the earth" will also bow to Jesus deepen your understanding of His victory over death and all spiritual powers?**

### FAQ
**What does "at the name of Jesus" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: In biblical thought, a "name" represents the very essence, character, authority, and power of a person. Therefore, "at the name of Jesus" means bowing not merely to the sound of His name, but to the person of Jesus Himself, to His inherent divine authority, His character as God, and the supreme power He embodies. It signifies complete recognition and submission to who He is as the exalted Lord. It's about His identity and the authority God has vested in Him, as highlighted in [Philippians 2:9](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9 - God's Exaltation of Jesus"), where God gives Him "the name that is above every name."

**Does "every knee should bow" imply universal salvation for all beings?**

Answer: No, this verse does not teach universal salvation. While it declares that every knee will ultimately bow and every tongue confess Jesus' Lordship, this can happen in two ways: willingly and joyfully by those who have placed their faith in Him, or unwillingly and under compulsion by those who have rejected Him. The bowing of the knee signifies an acknowledgment of His supreme authority and sovereignty, but it does not necessarily imply a salvific relationship. [Romans 14:11](/romans/14-11 "Romans 14:11 - All Will Give Account to God") and [Revelation 20:11-15](/revelation/20-11-15 "Revelation 20:11-15 - The Great White Throne Judgment") describe a future judgment where all will stand before Christ, acknowledging His Lordship, but not all will be found righteous unto salvation. The verse emphasizes Christ's undeniable dominion, not necessarily universal redemption.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Philippians 2:10 finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus as the ultimate revelation of God's redemptive plan. The "name" above every name is His, not merely as a title, but as the embodiment of His unique divine-human identity and His completed work of salvation. His willingness to humble Himself, even to the point of death on a cross, was the necessary prelude to His exaltation, demonstrating that true glory is found in self-giving love and obedience. This verse underscores that the universal homage rendered to Jesus is a direct consequence of His triumph over sin and death through His resurrection and ascension. As the resurrected and ascended Lord, Jesus now reigns at the right hand of God, upholding all things by the word of His power ([Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ Upholds All Things")). The bowing of every knee signifies that His reign is not merely spiritual but cosmic, extending over every realm and every creature, fulfilling God's eternal purpose to bring all things under the headship of Christ ([Ephesians 1:20-23](/ephesians/1-20-23 "Ephesians 1:20-23 - Christ's Headship Over All Things")). This ultimate acknowledgment of His Lordship anticipates the day when He will put all enemies under His feet ([1_corinthians/15-25](/1_corinthians/15-25 "1 Corinthians 15:25 - Christ's Reign Until All Enemies are Subdued")) and return in glory to fully establish His kingdom, a vision beautifully depicted in passages like [Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - Christ's Triumphant Return"). Thus, Philippians 2:10 is not just a statement about Christ's future glory, but a declaration of the present reality of His sovereign rule, established through His redemptive work on the cross.

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

Isaiah 45:23

I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth [in] righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear.

Isaiah 45:25

In the LORD shall all the seed of Israel be justified, and shall glory.

Matthew 28:18

And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

Revelation 5:13

And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, [be] unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.

Revelation 5:14

And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four [and] twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever.

Hebrews 1:6

And again, when he bringeth in the firstbegotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him.

Romans 14:10

But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.