The Meaning of Hebrews 1:4 Explained

Hebrews 1:4

KJV: Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.

YLT: having become so much better than the messengers, as he did inherit a more excellent name than they.

Darby: taking a place by so much better than the angels, as he inherits a name more excellent than they.

ASV: having become by so much better than the angels, as he hath inherited a more excellent name than they.

KJV Reverse Interlinear

Being made  so much  better than  the angels,  as  he hath by inheritance obtained  a more excellent  name  than  they. 

What does Hebrews 1:4 Mean?

Study Notes

angels
Angel, Summary: Angel, "messenger," is used of God, of men, and of an order of created spiritual beings whose chief attributes are strength and wisdom. 2 Samuel 14:20 ; Psalms 103:20 ; Psalms 104:4 . In the O.T. the expression "the angel of the Lord" (sometimes "of God") usually implies the presence of Deity in angelic form.; Genesis 16:1-13 ; Genesis 21:17-19 ; Genesis 22:11-16 ; Genesis 31:11-13 ; Exodus 3:2-4 ; Judges 2:1 ; Judges 6:12-16 ; Judges 13:3-22 . The word "angel" is used of men in; Luke 7:24 ; James 2:25 ; Revelation 1:20 ; Revelation 2:1 ; Revelation 2:8 ; Revelation 2:12 ; Revelation 2:18 ; Revelation 3:1 ; Revelation 3:7 ; Revelation 3:14 In Revelation 8:3-5 . Christ is evidently meant. Sometimes angel is used of the spirit of man.; Matthew 18:10 ; Acts 12:15 . Though angels are spirits; Psalms 104:4 ; Hebrews 1:14 power is given them to become visible in the semblance of human form. Genesis 19:1 cf; Genesis 19:5 ; Exodus 3:2 ; Numbers 22:22-31 ; Judges 2:1 ; Judges 6:11 ; Judges 6:22 ; Ezekiel 28:11-15 ; Judges 13:6 ; 1 Chronicles 21:16 ; 1 Chronicles 21:20 ; Matthew 1:20 ; Luke 1:26 ; John 20:12 ; Acts 7:30 ; Acts 12:7 ; Acts 12:8 etc.). The word is always used in the masculine gender, though sex, in the human sense, is never ascribed to angels.; Matthew 22:30 ; Mark 12:25 . They are exceedingly numerous.; Matthew 26:53 ; Hebrews 12:22 ; Revelation 5:11 ; Psalms 68:17 . The power is inconceivable. 2 Kings 19:35 . Their place is about the throne of God.; Revelation 5:11 ; Revelation 7:11 . Their relation to the believer is that of "ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation," and this ministry has reference largely to the physical safety and well-being of believers.; 1 Kings 19:5 ; Psalms 34:7 ; Psalms 91:11 ; Daniel 6:22 ; Matthew 2:13 ; Matthew 2:19 ; Matthew 4:11 ; Luke 22:43 ; Acts 5:19 ; Acts 12:7-10 . From; Hebrews 1:14 ; Matthew 18:10 ; Psalms 91:11 it would seem that this care for the heirs of salvation begins in infancy and continues through life. The angels observe us; 1 Corinthians 4:9 ; Ephesians 3:10 ; Ecclesiastes 5:6 a fact which should influence conduct. They receive departing saints. Luke 16:22 . Man is made "a little lower than the angels," and in incarnation Christ took "for a little "time" this lower place.; Psalms 8:4 ; Psalms 8:5 ; Hebrews 2:6 ; Hebrews 2:9 that He might lift the believer into His own sphere above angels. Hebrews 2:9 ; Hebrews 2:10 . The angels are to accompany Christ in His second advent. Matthew 25:31 . To them will be committed the preparation of the judgment of the nations. Matthew 13:30 ; Matthew 13:39 ; Matthew 13:41 ; Matthew 13:42 . See Scofield " Matthew 25:32 ". The kingdom-age is not to be subject to angels, but to Christ and those for whom He was made a little lower than the angels. Hebrews 2:5 An archangel, Michael, is mentioned as having a particular relation to Israel and to the resurrections.; Daniel 10:13 ; Daniel 10:21 ; Daniel 12:1 ; Daniel 12:2 ; Judges 1:9 ; 1 Thessalonians 4:16 . The only other angel whose name is revealed Gabriel, was employed in the most distinguished services.; Daniel 8:16 ; Daniel 9:21 ; Luke 1:19 ; Luke 1:26 .
Fallen angels. Two classes of these are mentioned:
(1) "The angels which kept not their first estate place, but left their own habitation," are "chained under darkness," awaiting judgment. 2 Peter 2:4 ; Judges 1:6 ; 1 Corinthians 6:3 ; John 5:22 .
(2) The angels who have Satan Genesis 3:1 as leader.
.
The origin of these is nowhere explicitly revealed. They may be identical with the demons.
. For Satan and his angels everlasting fire is prepared. Matthew 25:41 ; Revelation 20:10 .
Lord
The f.c. of Malachi 3:1 is quoted of John the Baptist; Matthew 11:10 ; Mark 1:2 ; Luke 7:27 but the second clause, "the Lord whom ye see," etc., is nowhere quoted in the N.T. The reason is obvious: in everything save the fact of Christ's first advent, the latter clause awaits fulfilment Habakkuk 2:20 . Malachi 3:2-5 speak of judgment, not of grace. Malachi, in common with other O.T. prophets, saw both advents of Messiah blended in one horizon, but did not see the separating interval described in Matthew 13. consequent upon the rejection of the King Matthew 13:16 ; Matthew 13:17 . Still less was the Church-age in his vision; Ephesians 3:3-6 ; Colossians 1:25-27 . "My messenger" Isaiah 1:2-74 is John the Baptist; the "messenger of the covenant" is Christ in both of His advents, but with especial reference to the events which are to follow His return.
sons of God
Some hold that these "sons of God" were the "angels which kept not their first estate" Judges 1:6 . It is asserted that the title is in the O.T. exclusively used of angels. But this is an error Isaiah 43:6 . Angels are spoken of in a sexless way. No female angels are mentioned in Scripture, and we are expressly told that marriage is unknown among angels. Matthew 17:15-18 .
The uniform Hebrew and Christian interpretation has been that verse Genesis 6:2 marks the breaking down of the separation between the godly line of Seth and the godless line of Cain, and so the failure of the testimony to Jehovah committed to the line of Seth Genesis 4:26 . For apostasy there is no remedy but judgment; 1713607251_59 ; Isaiah 1:24 ; Isaiah 1:25 ; Hebrews 6:4-8 ; Hebrews 10:26-31 . Noah, "a preacher of righteousness," is given 120 years, but he won no convert, and the judgment predicted by his great- grandfather fell; Judges 1:14 ; Judges 1:15 ; Genesis 7:11 .
devil
Satan, Summary: This fearful being, apparently created one of the cherubim (See Scofield " Ezekiel 1:5 ") See Scofield " Ezekiel 28:12 " and anointed for a position of great authority, perhaps over the primitive creation, (note 3); See Scofield " Genesis 1:2 " Judges 13:3 fell through pride Isaiah 14:12-14 His "I will" Isaiah 14:13 marks the introduction of sin into the universe. Cast out of heaven Luke 10:18 he makes earth and air the scene of his tireless activity; Ephesians 2:2 ; 1 Peter 5:8 . After the creation of man he entered into the serpent. See Scofield " Genesis 3:1 ", and, beguiling Eve by his subtilty, secured the downfall of Adam and through him of the race, and the entrance of sin into the world of men Romans 5:12-14 .
The Adamic Covenant (See Scofield " Genesis 3:14 ") promised the ultimate destruction of Satan through the "Seed of the woman." Then began his long warfare against the work of God in behalf of humanity, which still continues. The present world-system Revelation 13:8 organized upon the principle of force, greed, selfishness, ambition, and sinful pleasure, is his work and was the bribe which he offered to Christ Matthew 4:8 ; Matthew 4:9 . Of that world-system he is prince; John 14:30 ; John 16:11 and god 2 Corinthians 4:4 . As "prince of the power of the air" Ephesians 2:2 he is at the head of vast host of demons. See Scofield " Matthew 7:22 ". To him, under God, was committed upon earth the power of death Hebrews 2:14 . Cast out of heaven as his proper sphere and "first estate," he still has access to God as the "accuser of the brethren" Revelation 12:10 and is permitted a certain power of sifting or testing the self-confident and carnal among believers; Job 1:6-11 ; Luke 22:31 ; Luke 22:32 ; 1 Corinthians 5:5 ; 1 Timothy 1:20 but this is strictly permissive and limited power, and believers so sifted are kept in faith through the advocacy of Christ Luke 22:31 ; Luke 22:32 . See Scofield " 1 John 2:1 ". At the beginning of the great tribulation Satan's privilege of access to God as accuser will be withdrawn Revelation 12:7-12 . At the return of Christ in glory Satan will be bound for one thousand years Revelation 20:2 after which he will be "loosed for a little season" Revelation 20:3 ; Revelation 20:7 ; Revelation 20:8 and will become the head of final effort to overthrow the kingdom. Defeated in this, he will be finally cast into the lake of fire, his final doom. The notion that he reigns in hell is Miltonic, not biblical. He is prince of this present world-system, but will be tormented in the lake of fire.
Devils
Devils, lit demons. To the reality and personality of demons the N.T. scriptures bear abundant testimony. As to their origin nothing is clearly revealed, but they are not to be confounded with the angels mentioned in 2 Peter 2:4 ; Judges 1:6 .
Summary: Demons are spirits Matthew 12:43 ; Matthew 12:45 are Satan's emissaries; Matthew 12:26 ; Matthew 12:27 ; Matthew 25:41 and so numerous as to make Satan's power practically ubiquitous. Mark 5:9 . They are capable of entering and controlling both men and beasts Mark 5:8 ; Mark 5:11-13 and earnestly seek embodiment, without which, apparently, they are powerless for evil.; Matthew 12:43 ; Matthew 12:44 ; Mark 5:10-12 . Demon influence and demon possession are discriminated in the N. T. Instances of the latter are; Matthew 4:24 ; Matthew 8:16 ; Matthew 8:28 ; Matthew 8:33 ; Matthew 9:32 ; Matthew 12:22 ; Mark 1:32 ; Mark 5:15 ; Mark 5:16 ; Mark 5:18 ; Luke 8:35 ; Acts 8:7 ; Acts 16:16 . They are unclean, sullen, violent, and malicious; Matthew 8:28 ; Matthew 9:23 ; Matthew 10:1 ; Matthew 12:43 ; Mark 1:23 ; Mark 5:3-5 ; Mark 9:17 ; Mark 9:20 ; Luke 6:18 ; Luke 9:39 . They know Jesus Christ as Most High God, and recognize His supreme authority; Matthew 8:31 ; Matthew 8:32 ; Mark 1:24 ; Acts 19:15 ; James 2:19 . They know their eternal fate to be one of torment; Matthew 8:29 ; Luke 8:31 . They inflict physical maladies; Matthew 12:22 ; Matthew 22:30 ; Luke 13:16 but mental disease is to be distinguished from the disorder of mind due to demonical control. Demon influence may manifest itself in religion asceticism and formalism 1 Timothy 4:1-3 degenerating into uncleanness 2 Peter 2:10-12 . The sign of demon influence in religion is departing from the faith, i.e. the body of revealed truth in the Scriptures. 1 Timothy 4:1 . The demons maintain especially a conflict with believers who would be spiritual.; Ephesians 6:12 ; 1 Timothy 4:1-3 . All unbelievers are open to demon possession Ephesians 2:2 . The believer's resources, prayer and bodily control Matthew 17:21 "the whole armour of God" Ephesians 6:13-18 . Exorcism in the name of Jesus Christ Acts 16:18 was practised for demon possession. One of the awful features of the apocalyptic judgments in which this age will end is an irruption of demons out the abyss. Revelation 9:1-11 .

Verse Meaning

These seven facts also reveal clearly the Son"s superiority to any other of God"s messengers, even the angels. This superiority is clear too in the fact that His name is Son (singular) rather than sons (collectively). The Old Testament writers called angels "sons of God" (e.g, Hebrews 10:36-394; Job 38:7). Jesus Christ "inherited" the name "Son" before creation ( Hebrews 1:2; cf. Hebrews 5:8). Within the Trinity, God the Son carried out the will of God the Father in a way that corresponds to the way in which sons in biblical culture carried out the wills of their fathers. In another sense, Jesus became God"s Son at His ascension by taking His seat at the Father"s right hand with a view to returning to the earth and ruling over it (cf. 2 Samuel 7:12-16; Psalm 2:7).
This is the first of the writer"s13uses of the word "better" (Gr. kreitton) all of which contrast Jesus Christ and His order with what preceded Him in Judaism ( Hebrews 6:9; Hebrews 7:7; Hebrews 7:19; Hebrews 7:22; Hebrews 8:6 [1]; Hebrews 9:23; Hebrews 10:34; Hebrews 11:16; Hebrews 11:35; Hebrews 11:40; Hebrews 5:9-105). This word appears only six times elsewhere in the New Testament. The writer used many comparatives (e.g, "more excellent," "lesser," "better," "more," "greater," et al.) to support his argument that the new Christian order is superior to the old Jewish order. This is also a "signpost passage" in which a brief statement (in this case "much better than the angels") identifies a main subject the writer proceeded to develop later (cf. Hebrews 2:17; 1713607251_85; 1713607251_32; Hebrews 12:11?). [2] "Angel" (Gr. angelos) is another of this writer"s favorite words. It appears13times in Hebrews.
"Opinions differ as to what is meant here by "the name." Some take this to mean that in his whole character and personality Christ was superior to any angel. Others think the reference is simply to the name " Song of Solomon ," which is a better name than "angel" because it denotes superiority in character and personality. Either interpretation is possible." [3]
The writer introduced several concepts in the prologue that he developed more fully later. These include the distinctive quality of the Son"s Revelation , the superiority of His sacrifice, His sovereignty, and His greatness compared with the angels. [4]
The differences in the beginning of this epistle compared with the beginnings of other New Testament epistles are striking. There is no introduction of the writer, no mention of the original readers, and no benediction, all of which were common features of letters in the first century. The writer obviously wanted his readers to give their full attention to the greatness of Jesus Christ. Some students of Hebrews have concluded that the writer did not identify himself or his readers because he wanted to make Jesus Christ primary in the readers" thinking throughout this epistle. I think this is very likely.
"In Hebrews 1:1-4 the writer gave christological precision to a cluster of ideas derived from hellenistic Judaism. He boldly applied the categories of Wisdom to a historical figure, Jesus. The writer to the Hebrews was a creative theologian who brought together wisdom motifs and priestly motifs in a tightly formulated statement concerning the dignity and achievement of the Son of God. The opening paragraph establishes a firm christological foundation for all that the writer has to say concerning the character and demands of the revelation mediated by the Son. The joining together of wisdom and priestly notes in the carefully orchestrated presentation of the Son provides the readers with the assurance of Jesus" sustained concern for them and his ability to strengthen and vindicate the people of God when they become objects of contempt in a hostile world." [5]

Context Summary

Hebrews 1:1-14 - God's Final And Supreme Messenger
Christianity is greater than the Mosaic dispensation because it has been given through the Son, whereas the Law came through angels. See Acts 7:53. The message of the Gospel is connected speech; that of the Law was broken syllables.
The Son's intrinsic glory, Hebrews 1:1-4. Jesus is the channel of creation, providence and redemption. He is the far-traveled ray of Deity; but not one among many equals, for of Him alone could it be said that His nature was co-extensive with God's, as a seal with the die. He is on the throne, not merely because of His original nature, but as the reward of His obedience unto death, Philippians 2:9.
His superiority to angels, Hebrews 1:5-14. These quotations should be carefully studied as showing the deep inner meaning of the Psalms. Their fulfillment must be sought in Christ, and in them we overhear the voice of God. "We must ever thank God for the ministry of angels. Note that their service to us is a liturgy of adoration to God-such is the force of the Greek words. [source]

Chapter Summary: Hebrews 1

1  Christ in these last times coming to us from the Father,
4  is preferred above the angels, both in person and office

Greek Commentary for Hebrews 1:4

Having become [γενομενος]
Second aorist middle participle of γινομαι — ginomai In contrast with on in Hebrews 1:3. By so much Instrumental case of τοσουτος — tosoutos correlative with οσωι — hosōi (as) with comparative in both clauses Than the angels Ablative of comparison after κρειττων — kreittōn as often. Than they Instead of the ablative αυτων — autōn here the preposition παρα — para (along, by the side of) with the accusative occurs, another common idiom as in Hebrews 3:3; Hebrews 9:23. Διαπορος — Diaphoros only in Hebrews in N.T. except Romans 12:6. Hath inherited Perfect active indicative of κληρονομεω — klēronomeō (from κληρονομος — klēronomos heir, Hebrews 1:2), and still inherits it, the name The author proves it from Scripture (Hebrews 1:4-14). [source]
[]
d The detailed development of the argument is now introduced. The point is to show the superiority of the agent of the new dispensation to the agents of the old - the angels and Moses. Christ's superiority to the angels is first discussed. [source]
Being made so much better than the angels [τοσούτῳ κρείττων γενόμενος τῶν ἀγγέλων]
The informal and abrupt introduction of this topic goes to show that the writer was addressing Jewish Christians, who were familiar with the prominent part ascribed to angels in the O.T. economy, especially in the giving of the law. See on Galatians 3:9. For being made, rend. having become; which is to be taken in close connection with sat down, etc., and in contrast with ὢν being Hebrews 1:3. It is not denied that the Son was essentially and eternally superior to the angels; but his glorification was conditioned upon his fulfillment of the requirements of his human state, and it is this that is emphasized. After having passed through the experience described in Philemon 2:6-8, he sat down on the right hand of the divine majesty as messianic sovereign, and so became or proved to be what in reality he was from eternity, superior to the angels. Τοσούτῳ - ὅσῳ somuch - as. Never used by Paul. Κρείττων bettersuperior, rare in Paul, and always neuter and adverbial. In Hebrews thirteen times. See also 1 Peter 3:17; 2 Peter 2:21. Often in lxx. It does not indicate here moral excellence, but dignity and power. He became superior to the angels, resuming his preincarnate dignity, as he had been, for a brief period, less or lower than the angels (Hebrews 2:7). The superiority of Messiah to the angels was affirmed in rabbinical writings. [source]
He hath by inheritance obtained [κεκληρονόμηκεν]
More neatly, as Rev., hath inherited, as a son. See Hebrews 1:2, and comp. Romans 8:17. For the verb, see on Acts 13:19, and see on 1 Peter 1:4. [source]
More excellent [διαφορώτερον]
Διάφορος only once outside of Hebrews, Romans 12:6. The comparative only in Hebrews. In the sense of more excellent, only in later writers. Its earlier sense is different. The idea of difference is that which radically distinguishes it from κρείττων betterHere it presents the comparative of a comparative conception. The Son's name differs from that of the angels, and is more different for good. [source]
Than they [παρ ' αὐτοὺς]
Lit. beside or in comparison with them. Παρα , indicating comparison, occurs a few times in Luke, as Luke 3:13; Luke 13:2; Luke 18:4. In Hebrews always to mark comparison, except Hebrews 11:11, Hebrews 11:12. [source]

Reverse Greek Commentary Search for Hebrews 1:4

Luke 2:51 Was subject [ἦν ὑποτασσόμενος]
The participle and finite verb, denoting habitual, continuous subjection. “Even before, he had been subject to them; but this is mentioned now, when it might seem that he could by this time have exempted himself. Not even to the angels fell such an honor as to the parents of Jesus” (Bengel). Compare Hebrews 1:4-8. [source]
1 Corinthians 11:10 Because of the angels []
The holy angels, who were supposed by both the Jewish and the early Christian Church to be present in worshipping assemblies. More, however, seems to be meant than “to avoid exciting disapproval among them.” The key-note of Paul's thought is subordination according to the original divine order. Woman best asserts her spiritual equality before God, not by unsexing herself, but by recognizing her true position and fulfilling its claims, even as do the angels, who are ministering as well as worshipping spirits (Hebrews 1:4). She is to fall in obediently with that divine economy of which she forms a part with the angels, and not to break the divine harmony, which especially asserts itself in worship, where the angelic ministers mingle with the earthly worshippers; nor to ignore the example of the holy ones who keep their first estate, and serve in the heavenly sanctuary. [source]
Philippians 2:9 A name []
Rev., correctly, the name. This expression is differently explained: either the particular name given to Christ, as Jesus or Lord; or name is taken in the sense of dignity or glory, which is a common Old-Testament usage, and occurs in Ephesians 1:21; Hebrews 1:4. Under the former explanation a variety of names are proposed, as Son of God, Lord, God, Christ Jesus. The sense of the personal name Jesus seems to meet all the conditions, and the personal sense is the simpler, since Jesus occurs immediately after with the word name, and again Jesus Christ in Phlippians 2:11. The name Jesus was bestowed on Christ at the beginning of His humiliation, but prophetically as the One who should save His people from their sins, Matthew 1:21. It was the personal name of others besides; but if that is an objection here, it is equally an objection in Phlippians 2:10. The dignity is expressed by above every name. He bears the name in His glory. See Acts 9:5. See on Matthew 1:21. [source]
Hebrews 7:19 The bringing in of a better hope [ἐπεισαγωγὴ κρείττονος ἐλπίδος]
Επεισαγωγὴ N.T.oolxx, is “a bringing in upon ” ( ἐπὶ ), upon the ground formerly occupied by the commandment. So Rev., correctly, “a bringing in thereupon.” For κπείττων bettersee on Hebrews 1:4. The comparison is not between the hope conveyed by the commandment, and the better hope introduced by the gospel, but between the commandment which was characteristic of the law (Ephesians 2:15) and the hope which characterized the gospel (Romans 5:2-5; Romans 8:24). [source]
Hebrews 6:9 Better things [τὰ κρείσσονα]
The article gives a collective force, the better state of things, the going on unto perfection (Hebrews 6:1). For κρείσσονα bettersee on Hebrews 1:4. [source]
Hebrews 1:5 Thou art my Son []
Note the emphatic position of υἱός sonSee on Hebrews 1:4. In the O.T. son is applied to angels collectively, but never individually. See Psalm 29:1; Psalm 89:6. Similarly, son is applied to the chosen nation, Exodus 4:22; Hosea 11:1, but to no individual of the nation. [source]
Hebrews 1:4 Having become [γενομενος]
Second aorist middle participle of γινομαι — ginomai In contrast with on in Hebrews 1:3. By so much Instrumental case of τοσουτος — tosoutos correlative with οσωι — hosōi (as) with comparative in both clauses Than the angels Ablative of comparison after κρειττων — kreittōn as often. Than they Instead of the ablative αυτων — autōn here the preposition παρα — para (along, by the side of) with the accusative occurs, another common idiom as in Hebrews 3:3; Hebrews 9:23. Διαπορος — Diaphoros only in Hebrews in N.T. except Romans 12:6. Hath inherited Perfect active indicative of κληρονομεω — klēronomeō (from κληρονομος — klēronomos heir, Hebrews 1:2), and still inherits it, the name The author proves it from Scripture (Hebrews 1:4-14). [source]
Hebrews 11:4 A more excellent sacrifice [πλειονα τυσιαν]
Literally, “more sacrifice” (comparative of πολυς — polus much). For this rather free use of πλειων — pleiōn with the point implied rather than stated see Matthew 6:25; Luke 10:31; Luke 12:23; Hebrews 3:3. Than Cain For this use of παρα — para after comparative see Hebrews 1:4, Hebrews 1:9. For the incident see Genesis 4:4. Through which The sacrifice He had Witness borne to him First aorist passive indicative of μαρτυρεω — martureō as in Hebrews 11:2, “he was witnessed to.” That he was righteous Infinitive in indirect discourse after εμαρτυρητη — emarturēthē personal construction of δικαιος — dikaios (predicate nominative after ειναι — einai) agreeing with the subject of εμαρτυρητη — emarturēthē (cf. Romans 1:22, ειναι σοποι — einai sophoi). God bearing witness Genitive absolute with present active participle of μαρτυρεω — martureō Through it Through his faith (as shown by his sacrifice). Precisely why Abel‘s sacrifice was better than that of Cain apart from his faith is not shown. Being dead Second aorist active participle of αποτνησκω — apothnēskō “having died.” Yet speaketh Cf. Genesis 4:10; Hebrews 12:24. Speaks still through his faith. [source]
Hebrews 12:24 To Jesus [Ιησου]
This great fact is not to be overlooked (Philemon 2:10.). He is there as Lord and Saviour and still “Jesus.” The mediator of a new covenant As already shown (Hebrews 7:22; Hebrews 8:6, Hebrews 8:8, Hebrews 8:9, Hebrews 8:10; Hebrews 9:15) and now gloriously consummated. To the blood of sprinkling As in Hebrews 9:19-28. Than Abel Accusative as in Hebrews 1:4. Better Comparative of καλος — kalos Abel‘s blood still speaks (Hebrews 11:4), but it is as nothing compared to that of Jesus. [source]
Hebrews 9:23 The copies [τα υποδειγματα]
See Hebrews 8:5 for this word, the earthly (Hebrews 8:4; Hebrews 9:1) tabernacle. With these Instrumental case of ουτος — houtos like the rites above described (Hebrews 9:19), perhaps with some disparagement. Themselves The heavenly realities (Hebrews 8:2, Hebrews 8:5; Hebrews 9:11.). With better sacrifices Instrumental case again. Point of this section (9:13-10:18). Than these Use of παρα — para and the accusative case after a comparative as in Hebrews 1:4, Hebrews 1:9. To us it seems a bit strained to speak of the ritual cleansing or dedication of heaven itself by the appearance of Christ as Priest-Victim. But the whole picture is highly mystical. [source]
Hebrews 1:3 Being [ων]
Absolute and timeless existence (present active participle of ειμι — eimi) in contrast with γενομενος — genomenos in Hebrews 1:4 like ην — ēn in John 1:1 (in contrast with εγενετο — egeneto in John 1:14) and like υπαρχων — huparchōn and γενομενος — genomenos in Philemon 2:6. The effulgence of his glory The word απαυγασμα — apaugasma late substantive from απαυγαζω — apaugazō to emit brightness The meaning “effulgence” suits the context better, though it gives the idea of eternal generation of the Son (John 1:1), the term Father applied to God necessarily involving Son. See this same metaphor in 2 Corinthians 4:6. The very image of his substance (Χαρακτηρ — charaktēr tēs hupostaseōs). χαρασσω — Charaktēr is an old word from τηρ — charassō to cut, to scratch, to mark. It first was the agent (note ending = χαραγμα — tēr) or tool that did the marking, then the mark or impress made, the exact reproduction, a meaning clearly expressed by χαρακτηρ — charagma (Acts 17:29; Revelation 13:16.). Menander had already used (Moffatt) υποστασις — charaktēr in the sense of our “character.” The word occurs in the inscriptions for “person” as well as for “exact reproduction” of a person. The word ψποστασις — hupostasis for the being or essence of God “is a philosophical rather than a religious term” (Moffatt). Etymologically it is the sediment or foundation under a building (for instance). In Hebrews 11:1 μορπη τεου — hypostasis is like the “title-deed” idea found in the papyri. Athanasius rightly used Hebrews 1:1-4 in his controversy with Arius. Paul in Philemon 2:5-11 pictures the real and eternal deity of Christ free from the philosophical language here employed. But even Paul‘s simpler phrase Λογος — morphē theou (the form of God) has difficulties of its own. The use of περων τε — Logos in John 1:1-18 is parallel to Hebrews 1:1-4. And upholding (περω — pherōn te). Present active participle of ων — pherō closely connected with τε — ōn (being) by τωι ρηματι της δυναμεως αυτου — te and like Colossians 1:17 in idea. The newer science as expounded by Eddington and Jeans is in harmony with the spiritual and personal conception of creation here presented. By the word of his power (ρημα — tōi rēmati tēs dunameōs autou). Instrumental case of ρηματι τεου — rēma (word). See Hebrews 11:3 for αυτου — rēmati theou (by the word of God) as the explanation of creation like Genesis, but here καταρισμον των αμαρτιων — autou refers to God‘s Son as in Hebrews 1:2. Purification of sins (Καταρισμος — katharismon tōn hamartiōn). καταριζω — Katharismos is from ποιησαμενος — katharizō to cleanse (Matthew 8:3; Hebrews 9:14), here only in Hebrews, but in same sense of cleansing from sins, 2 Peter 1:9; Job 7:21. Note middle participle ευραμενος — poiēsamenos like εκατισεν — heuramenos in Hebrews 9:12. This is the first mention of the priestly work of Christ, the keynote of this Epistle. Sat down (κατιζω — ekathisen). First aorist active of της μεγαλοσυνης εν υπσηλοις — kathizō “took his seat,” a formal and dignified act. Of the Majesty on high (μεγας — tēs megalosunēs en hupsēlois). Late word from εν υπσηλοις — megas only in lxx (Deut 32:3; 2Sam 7:23, etc.), Aristeas, Hebrews 1:3; Hebrews 8:1; Judges 1:25. Christ resumed his original dignity and glory (John 17:5). The phrase εν υπσιστοις — en hupsēlois occurs in the Psalms (Psalm 93:4), here only in N.T., elsewhere εν τοις επουρανιοις — en hupsistois in the highest (Matthew 21:9; Luke 2:14) or en tois epouraniois in the heavenlies (Ephesians 1:3, Ephesians 1:20). Jesus is here pictured as King (Prophet and Priest also) Messiah seated at the right hand of God. [source]
Hebrews 2:7 Thou madest him a little lower [ελαττωσας αυτον βραχυ τι]
First aorist active of old verb ελαττοω — elattoō from ελαττων — elattōn (less), causative verb to lessen, to decrease, to make less, only here, and Hebrews 2:9 and John 3:30 in N.T. ραχυ τι — Brachu ti is accusative neuter of degree like 2 Samuel 16:1, “some little,” but of time in Isaiah 57:17 (for a little while). Than the angels “Beside angels” like παρα — para with the accusative of comparison in Hebrews 1:4, Hebrews 1:9. The Hebrew here has υοι τεου — Elohim which word is applied to judges in Psalm 82:1, Psalm 82:6 (John 10:34.). Here it is certainly not “God” in our sense. In Psalm 29:1 the lxx translates εστεπανωσας — Elohim by στεπανοω — huoi theou (sons of God). Thou crownedst First aorist active indicative of old verb, stephanoō to crown, in N.T. only here and 2 Timothy 2:5 The Psalmist refers to God‘s purpose in creating man with such a destiny as mastery over nature. The rest of Hebrews 2:7 is absent in B. [source]
Hebrews 3:3 Hath been counted worthy of more glory than Moses [πλειονος δοχης παρα Μωυσην ηχιωται]
Perfect passive indicative of αχιοω — axioō to deem worthy, permanent situation described with definite claim of Christ‘s superiority to Moses. Δοχης — Doxēs in genitive case after ηχιωται — ēxiōtai For παρα — para after the comparative πλειονος — pleionos see Hebrews 1:4, Hebrews 1:9; Hebrews 2:7. By so much as A proportionate measurement (common use of κατα — kata and the quantitative relative οσος — hosos). Than the house Ablative case of comparison after πλειονα — pleiona The architect is superior to the house just as Sir Christopher Wren is superior to St. Paul‘s Cathedral. The point in the argument calls for Jesus as the builder But it is God‘s house as αυτου — autou means (Hebrews 3:2, Hebrews 3:5) and ου — hou in Hebrews 3:6. This house of God existed before Moses (Hebrews 11:2, Hebrews 11:25). Jesus as God‘s Son founded and supervised this house of God. [source]
Hebrews 8:6 But now [νυν δε]
Logical use of νυν — nun as the case now stands, with Jesus as high priest in heaven. Hath he obtained Perfect active indicative of τυγχανω — tugchanō with the genitive, a rare and late form for τετευχεν — teteuchen (also τετευχηκεν — teteuchēken), old verb to hit the mark, to attain. A ministry the more excellent “A more excellent ministry.” For the comparative of διαπορος — diaphoros see Hebrews 1:4. This remark applies to all the five points of superiority over the Levitical priesthood. By how much Instrumental case of the relative οσος — hosos between two comparative adjectives as in Hebrews 1:4. The mediator Late word from μεσος — mesos (amid) and so a middle man (arbitrator). Already in Galatians 3:19. and see 1 Timothy 2:5. See Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 12:24 for further use with διατηκη — diathēkē Of a better covenant Called “new” For νενομοτετηται — diathēkē see Matthew 26:28; Luke 1:72; Galatians 3:17, etc. This idea he will discuss in Hebrews 8:7-13. Hath been enacted (νομοτετεω — nenomothetētai). Perfect passive indicative of επι κρειττοσιν επαγγελιαις — nomotheteō as in Hebrews 7:11 which see. Upon better promises (επι — epi kreittosin epaggeliais). Upon the basis of (κρεισσων — epi). But how “better” if the earlier were also from God? This idea, alluded to in Hebrews 6:12-17, Will be developed in 10:19-12:3 with great passion and power. Thus it is seen that “better” (kreissōn) is the keynote of the Epistle. At every point Christianity is better than Judaism. [source]
Hebrews 8:6 Hath he obtained [τετυχεν]
Perfect active indicative of τυγχανω — tugchanō with the genitive, a rare and late form for τετευχεν — teteuchen (also τετευχηκεν — teteuchēken), old verb to hit the mark, to attain. A ministry the more excellent “A more excellent ministry.” For the comparative of διαπορος — diaphoros see Hebrews 1:4. This remark applies to all the five points of superiority over the Levitical priesthood. By how much Instrumental case of the relative οσος — hosos between two comparative adjectives as in Hebrews 1:4. The mediator Late word from μεσος — mesos (amid) and so a middle man (arbitrator). Already in Galatians 3:19. and see 1 Timothy 2:5. See Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 12:24 for further use with διατηκη — diathēkē Of a better covenant Called “new” For νενομοτετηται — diathēkē see Matthew 26:28; Luke 1:72; Galatians 3:17, etc. This idea he will discuss in Hebrews 8:7-13. Hath been enacted (νομοτετεω — nenomothetētai). Perfect passive indicative of επι κρειττοσιν επαγγελιαις — nomotheteō as in Hebrews 7:11 which see. Upon better promises (επι — epi kreittosin epaggeliais). Upon the basis of (κρεισσων — epi). But how “better” if the earlier were also from God? This idea, alluded to in Hebrews 6:12-17, Will be developed in 10:19-12:3 with great passion and power. Thus it is seen that “better” (kreissōn) is the keynote of the Epistle. At every point Christianity is better than Judaism. [source]
Hebrews 8:6 A ministry the more excellent [διαπορωτερας λειτουργιας]
“A more excellent ministry.” For the comparative of διαπορος — diaphoros see Hebrews 1:4. This remark applies to all the five points of superiority over the Levitical priesthood. By how much Instrumental case of the relative οσος — hosos between two comparative adjectives as in Hebrews 1:4. The mediator Late word from μεσος — mesos (amid) and so a middle man (arbitrator). Already in Galatians 3:19. and see 1 Timothy 2:5. See Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 12:24 for further use with διατηκη — diathēkē Of a better covenant Called “new” For νενομοτετηται — diathēkē see Matthew 26:28; Luke 1:72; Galatians 3:17, etc. This idea he will discuss in Hebrews 8:7-13. Hath been enacted (νομοτετεω — nenomothetētai). Perfect passive indicative of επι κρειττοσιν επαγγελιαις — nomotheteō as in Hebrews 7:11 which see. Upon better promises (επι — epi kreittosin epaggeliais). Upon the basis of (κρεισσων — epi). But how “better” if the earlier were also from God? This idea, alluded to in Hebrews 6:12-17, Will be developed in 10:19-12:3 with great passion and power. Thus it is seen that “better” (kreissōn) is the keynote of the Epistle. At every point Christianity is better than Judaism. [source]
Hebrews 8:6 By how much [οσωι]
Instrumental case of the relative οσος — hosos between two comparative adjectives as in Hebrews 1:4. The mediator Late word from μεσος — mesos (amid) and so a middle man (arbitrator). Already in Galatians 3:19. and see 1 Timothy 2:5. See Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 12:24 for further use with διατηκη — diathēkē Of a better covenant Called “new” For νενομοτετηται — diathēkē see Matthew 26:28; Luke 1:72; Galatians 3:17, etc. This idea he will discuss in Hebrews 8:7-13. Hath been enacted (νομοτετεω — nenomothetētai). Perfect passive indicative of επι κρειττοσιν επαγγελιαις — nomotheteō as in Hebrews 7:11 which see. Upon better promises (επι — epi kreittosin epaggeliais). Upon the basis of (κρεισσων — epi). But how “better” if the earlier were also from God? This idea, alluded to in Hebrews 6:12-17, Will be developed in 10:19-12:3 with great passion and power. Thus it is seen that “better” (kreissōn) is the keynote of the Epistle. At every point Christianity is better than Judaism. [source]
1 Peter 3:17 Better [κρειττον]
Comparative of κρατυς — kratus as in 2 Peter 2:21; Hebrews 1:4. Patient endurance not only silences calumny (1 Peter 3:16), is Christlike (1 Peter 3:18), but it has a value of its own (1 Peter 3:17). [source]
Revelation 19:10 Fellow-servant [συνδουλος]
The angel refuses worship from John on this ground. All Christians are συνδουλοι — sundouloi (fellow-servants) as Christ taught (Matthew 18:28.; Matthew 24:49) and as Paul (Colossians 1:7; Colossians 4:7) and John (Revelation 6:11) taught. Angels are God‘s servants also (Hebrews 1:4-14). For “the testimony of Jesus” see Revelation 1:2, Revelation 1:9; Revelation 6:9; Revelation 12:17; Revelation 22:4. [source]
Revelation 19:10 See thou do it not [ορα μη]
Repeated in Revelation 22:9. Here there is no verb after μη — mē (ellipse of ποιησηις τουτο — poiēsēis touto) as in Mark 1:44; 1 Thessalonians 5:15), the aorist subjunctive of negative purpose with μη — mē after ορα — hora (present active imperative of οραω — horaō), a common enough idiom.Fellow-servant (συνδουλος — sundoulos). The angel refuses worship from John on this ground. All Christians are συνδουλοι — sundouloi (fellow-servants) as Christ taught (Matthew 18:28.; Matthew 24:49) and as Paul (Colossians 1:7; Colossians 4:7) and John (Revelation 6:11) taught. Angels are God‘s servants also (Hebrews 1:4-14). For “the testimony of Jesus” see Revelation 1:2, Revelation 1:9; Revelation 6:9; Revelation 12:17; Revelation 22:4.Worship God And Christ, who is the Son of God (Revelation 5:13.).The spirit of prophecy (το πνευμα της προπητειας — to pneuma tēs prophēteias). Explanatory use of γαρ — gar (for) here as in Revelation 19:8. The possession of the prophetic spirit shows itself in witness to Jesus. In illustration see Mark 1:10; Matthew 3:16; Luke 3:21; John 1:51; Revelation 4:1; Revelation 10:1; Revelation 11:19; Revelation 14:17; Revelation 15:5; Revelation 18:1; Revelation 19:1, Revelation 19:7-9. [source]

What do the individual words in Hebrews 1:4 mean?

By so much superior having become to the angels as much as more excellent beyond theirs He has inherited a name
τοσούτῳ κρείττων γενόμενος τῶν ἀγγέλων ὅσῳ διαφορώτερον παρ’ αὐτοὺς κεκληρονόμηκεν ὄνομα

τοσούτῳ  By  so  much 
Parse: Demonstrative Pronoun, Dative Neuter Singular
Root: τοσοῦτος  
Sense: of quantity: so great, so many.
κρείττων  superior 
Parse: Adjective, Nominative Masculine Singular, Comparative
Root: κρείττων  
Sense: more useful, more serviceable, more advantageous.
γενόμενος  having  become 
Parse: Verb, Aorist Participle Middle, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root: γίνομαι  
Sense: to become, i.
τῶν  to  the 
Parse: Article, Genitive Masculine Plural
Root:  
Sense: this, that, these, etc.
ἀγγέλων  angels 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Masculine Plural
Root: ἄγγελος  
Sense: a messenger, envoy, one who is sent, an angel, a messenger from God.
ὅσῳ  as  much  as 
Parse: Personal / Relative Pronoun, Dative Neuter Singular
Root: ὅσος  
Sense: as great as, as far as, how much, how many, whoever.
διαφορώτερον  more  excellent 
Parse: Adjective, Accusative Neuter Singular, Comparative
Root: διάφορος  
Sense: different, varying in kind.
παρ’  beyond 
Parse: Preposition
Root: παρά  
Sense: from, of at, by, besides, near.
αὐτοὺς  theirs 
Parse: Personal / Possessive Pronoun, Accusative Masculine 3rd Person Plural
Root: αὐτός  
Sense: himself, herself, themselves, itself.
κεκληρονόμηκεν  He  has  inherited 
Parse: Verb, Perfect Indicative Active, 3rd Person Singular
Root: κληρονομέω  
Sense: to receive a lot, receive by lot.
ὄνομα  a  name 
Parse: Noun, Accusative Neuter Singular
Root: ὄνομα  
Sense: name: univ.