New Testament
Hebrews 1:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Having been made much better than the angels, as he has inherited a more excellent name than they.
Compare translations
Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.
What Hebrews 1:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the author of Hebrews emphasizes the superiority of Jesus over angels. It states that Jesus has been made much better than the angels, highlighting His divine nature and authority. The phrase 'more excellent name' refers to the unique status and identity of Jesus as the Son of God, which He has inherited. This inheritance signifies His rightful place in the heavenly hierarchy, distinguishing Him from angels who serve God but do not share the same divine nature. The comparison underscores the belief that while angels are powerful beings, they are not to be worshipped or placed on the same level as Jesus. This verse sets the stage for understanding the greatness of Christ and His role in salvation, affirming His divinity and the honor that comes with being the Son of God.
How to apply Hebrews 1:4 to your life
Understanding Jesus' superiority encourages believers to place their faith in Him rather than in spiritual beings like angels. This perspective helps Christians recognize the unique relationship they have with Christ, who is their Savior and Lord, and inspires them to worship Him alone.
Curated for this public verse page. Hebrews Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Peter's story: Andrew Brings Simon to Jesus (John 1:40–42)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Peter
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jerusalem
David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Hebrews 1:4
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Hebrews 1:4
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Hebrews
- Author
- Author unknown; traditionally attributed to Paul
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Letter and sermon
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Hebrews 1:4 say about Jesus and angels?
Hebrews 1:4 states that Jesus has been made much better than the angels and has inherited a more excellent name than they. This emphasizes Jesus' superiority and divine nature, distinguishing Him from angels who serve God but do not share His unique identity as the Son of God.
Why is Jesus referred to as having a 'more excellent name' in Hebrews 1:4?
The phrase 'more excellent name' in Hebrews 1:4 signifies Jesus' unique status as the Son of God. This name reflects His divine authority and identity, which is superior to that of angels. It underscores the belief that Jesus holds a special place in the heavenly hierarchy, deserving of worship and reverence.
How does Hebrews 1:4 impact the way Christians view angels?
Hebrews 1:4 encourages Christians to recognize the superiority of Jesus over angels. While angels are powerful beings created by God, this verse reminds believers that they should not worship angels or place them on the same level as Christ. Instead, their faith and worship should be directed solely towards Jesus, who is their Savior.
What is the significance of Jesus' inheritance mentioned in Hebrews 1:4?
The inheritance mentioned in Hebrews 1:4 signifies Jesus' rightful place and authority in the heavenly realm. It indicates that He has received a unique status and identity as the Son of God, which sets Him apart from angels. This inheritance affirms His divinity and the honor associated with His role in salvation.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.