New Testament
Hebrews 2:17
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the author of Hebrews emphasizes the necessity of Jesus becoming fully human, just like us.
- Author
- Author unknown; traditionally attributed to Paul
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Letter and sermon
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Therefore, in all things, he had to be made like his brethren, so he could be a merciful and faithful high priest in matters related to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.
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.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the author of Hebrews emphasizes the necessity of Jesus becoming fully human, just like us. This was essential for Him to serve as a high priest who understands our struggles and can compassionately intercede for us before God. By sharing in our humanity, He is able to relate to our experiences and offer mercy and faithfulness. His role as a high priest is crucial because it allows Him to mediate between God and humanity, making it possible for our sins to be forgiven. This reconciliation is vital for restoring our relationship with God, which was broken by sin. Jesus' identification with us not only highlights His compassion but also His commitment to fulfilling God's plan for salvation. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He provides a way for us to be reconciled with God, demonstrating the depth of His love and the importance of His priestly role.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Hebrews 2:17 to your life
Understanding Jesus as our high priest encourages us to approach Him with our struggles and sins. We can trust that He understands our challenges and offers us mercy. This assurance motivates us to seek reconciliation with God and others, knowing that forgiveness is available.
Curated for this public verse page. Hebrews Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Hebrews 2:17 mean?
Hebrews 2:17 explains that Jesus had to become fully human to serve as a high priest who understands our struggles. This allows Him to compassionately intercede for us and make reconciliation for our sins.
What is the significance of Jesus being a high priest in Hebrews 2:17?
In Hebrews 2:17, Jesus being a high priest signifies His role in mediating between God and humanity. His understanding of our human experiences enables Him to offer mercy and faithfulness in addressing our sins.
How does Hebrews 2:17 relate to the concept of reconciliation?
Hebrews 2:17 highlights that Jesus' humanity is essential for making reconciliation possible. By sharing in our experiences, He can effectively mediate for our sins, restoring our relationship with God.
Why is Jesus' identification with humanity important in Hebrews 2:17?
Jesus' identification with humanity in Hebrews 2:17 is important because it allows Him to relate to our struggles. This connection enables Him to fulfill His role as a high priest who can genuinely intercede for us.

The Book of Hebrews
Hebrews 1: The Son Above the Angels
God, who formerly spoke through the prophets in many ways, has now spoken through His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things and through whom He made the worlds. The Son is the brightness of God's glory and the express image of His person, upholding all things by His power, and after purging sins He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high. The writer proves through Scripture that the Son is far greater than the angels: He is called the Son of God, receives worship from the angels, possesses an eternal throne, and laid the foundations of the earth, while angels are ministering spirits sent to serve the heirs of salvation.
Unlock the full Hebrews summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Hebrews — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 13 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Hebrews summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.