New Testament

Hebrews 8:12

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and I will remember their sins and iniquities no more.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.

What Hebrews 8:12 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, God promises to show mercy to those who have sinned and to completely forget their wrongdoings. This reflects the idea of forgiveness and grace, emphasizing that God does not hold our past sins against us once we seek His mercy. The context of this promise is rooted in the new covenant, where God establishes a relationship with His people based on love and forgiveness rather than strict adherence to the law. This assurance of mercy is a profound comfort, indicating that no matter how far we stray, God is willing to forgive and restore us. It highlights the transformative power of God's grace, which allows believers to move forward without the burden of guilt from their past actions. This verse reassures us that through faith, we can experience a fresh start and a renewed relationship with God, free from the weight of our sins.

How to apply Hebrews 8:12 to your life

This verse encourages us to embrace God's forgiveness and to let go of our past mistakes. It reminds us that we can start anew, free from guilt. We should also extend this mercy to others, forgiving them as God has forgiven us, fostering a spirit of grace in our relationships.

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.

A painting of the angel Gabriel, shining with light, appearing to Mary in her home in Nazareth

Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Mary, Jesus' mother

The low dark stone ruins of Capernaum, with the Sea of Galilee and hills behind.

Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. 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.

Capernaum

Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.

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 Plans

Ask AI about Hebrews 8:12

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 8:12

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 8:12 mean?

Hebrews 8:12 means that God promises to show mercy to those who have sinned and will completely forget their wrongdoings. This reflects His willingness to forgive and establish a loving relationship with His people.

What is the meaning of mercy in Hebrews 8:12?

In Hebrews 8:12, mercy refers to God's compassionate forgiveness towards our sins and failures. It signifies His readiness to overlook our past mistakes when we seek His grace.

How does Hebrews 8:12 relate to forgiveness?

Hebrews 8:12 relates to forgiveness by illustrating that God chooses to forget our sins when we repent. It encourages believers to accept God's mercy and to forgive others in the same way.

What themes are present in Hebrews 8:12?

The themes present in Hebrews 8:12 include God's mercy, forgiveness, the new covenant, grace, and restoration. It emphasizes the transformative power of God's love in our lives.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.