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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/hebrews/4-12.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/3/58_Heb_04_12.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Hebrews 4:12 - God's Word is Living and Active" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="For the word of God is living and active. 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Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. <a href="/nlt/hebrews/4.htm">New Living Translation</a> For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. <a href="/esv/hebrews/4.htm">English Standard Version</a> For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. <a href="/bsb/hebrews/4.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart. <a href="/blb/hebrews/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For the word of God is living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating even as far as the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrows, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. <a href="/kjv/hebrews/4.htm">King James Bible</a> For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. <a href="/nkjv/hebrews/4.htm">New King James Version</a> For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. <a href="/nasb_/hebrews/4.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> For the word of God is living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, even penetrating as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. <a href="/nasb/hebrews/4.htm">NASB 1995</a> For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. <a href="/nasb77/hebrews/4.htm">NASB 1977 </a> For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. <a href="/lsb/hebrews/4.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. <a href="/amp/hebrews/4.htm">Amplified Bible</a> For the word of God is living and active and full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]. It is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating as far as the division of the soul and spirit [the completeness of a person], and of both joints and marrow [the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and judging the very thoughts and intentions of the heart. <a href="/csb/hebrews/4.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> For the word of God is living and effective and sharper than any double-edged sword, penetrating as far as the separation of soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. <a href="/hcsb/hebrews/4.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> For the word of God is living and effective and sharper than any double-edged sword, penetrating as far as the separation of soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It is able to judge the ideas and thoughts of the heart. <a href="/asv/hebrews/4.htm">American Standard Version</a> For the word of God is living, and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and quick to discern the thoughts and intents of the heart. <a href="/cev/hebrews/4.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> God's word is alive and powerful! It is sharper than any double-edged sword. His word can cut through our spirits and souls and through our joints and marrow, until it discovers the desires and thoughts of our hearts. <a href="/erv/hebrews/4.htm">English Revised Version</a> For the word of God is living, and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and quick to discern the thoughts and intents of the heart. <a href="/gwt/hebrews/4.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> God's word is living and active. It is sharper than any two-edged sword and cuts as deep as the place where soul and spirit meet, the place where joints and marrow meet. God's word judges a person's thoughts and intentions. <a href="/gnt/hebrews/4.htm">Good News Translation</a> The word of God is alive and active, sharper than any double-edged sword. It cuts all the way through, to where soul and spirit meet, to where joints and marrow come together. It judges the desires and thoughts of the heart. <a href="/isv/hebrews/4.htm">International Standard Version</a> For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul and spirit, joints and marrow, as it judges the thoughts and purposes of the heart. <a href="/msb/hebrews/4.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart. <a href="/net/hebrews/4.htm">NET Bible</a> For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any double-edged sword, piercing even to the point of dividing soul from spirit, and joints from marrow; it is able to judge the desires and thoughts of the heart. <a href="/nheb/hebrews/4.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> For the word of God is living, and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and is able to discern the thoughts and intentions of the heart. <a href="/wbt/hebrews/4.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> For the word of God is living, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. <a href="/wey/hebrews/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For God's Message is full of life and power, and is keener than the sharpest two-edged sword. It pierces even to the severance of soul from spirit, and penetrates between the joints and the marrow, and it can discern the secret thoughts and purposes of the heart. <a href="/web/hebrews/4.htm">World English Bible</a> For the word of God is living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and is able to discern the thoughts and intentions of the heart. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/hebrews/4.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> for the Word of God is living, and working, and sharper—beyond every two-edged sword—and piercing as far as [the] division of soul and spirit, of joints and also marrows, and a discerner of thoughts and intents of the heart; <a href="/blb/hebrews/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For the word of God is living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating even as far as the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrows, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. <a href="/ylt/hebrews/4.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> for the reckoning of God is living, and working, and sharp above every two-edged sword, and piercing unto the dividing asunder both of soul and spirit, of joints also and marrow, and a discerner of thoughts and intents of the heart; <a href="/slt/hebrews/4.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> For the word of God living, and effective, and more piercing than any two-mouthed sword, and penetrating even to the division both of soul and spirit, both the joints and marrows, and a critic of the reflections and thoughts of the heart.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/hebrews/4.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> For the word of God is living and effectual, and more piercing than any two edged sword; and reaching unto the division of the soul and the spirit, of the joints also and the marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. <a href="/cpdv/hebrews/4.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> For the Word of God is living and effective: more piercing than any two-edged sword, reaching to the division even between the soul and the spirit, even between the joints and the marrow, and so it discerns the thoughts and intentions of the heart. <a href="/nabre/hebrews/4.htm">New American Bible</a> Indeed, the word of God is living and effective, sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating even between soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and able to discern reflections and thoughts of the heart. <a href="/nrsvce/hebrews/4.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Indeed, the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/hebrews/4.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> For the word of God is living and powerful and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the point of division between soul and spirit, and between the joints and marrow and bones, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/hebrews/4.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> For the word of God is living and all-efficient, and much sharper than a double edged sword, and it pierces to the separation of soul and spirit and of joints, marrow and of bones, and judges the reasoning and conscience of the heart.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/hebrews/4.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, and pierces even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. <a href="/godbey/hebrews/4.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> For the word of God is living, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing unto the dividing of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and a quick discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. <a href="/haweis/hebrews/4.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> For the word of God is quickening, and energetic, and sharper than every two-edged sword, and piercing through and through, so as to divide both soul and spirit, both joints and spinal marrow, and critically judges the thoughts and intents of the heart. <a href="/mace/hebrews/4.htm">Mace New Testament</a> for the word of God is active and efficacious, sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating even to the division of soul and spirit, to the smallest and most inward parts, distinguishing the thoughts, and intentions of the heart. <a href="/wey/hebrews/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For God's Message is full of life and power, and is keener than the sharpest two-edged sword. It pierces even to the severance of soul from spirit, and penetrates between the joints and the marrow, and it can discern the secret thoughts and purposes of the heart. <a href="/worrell/hebrews/4.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> For the word of God is living, and effectual, and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing even to a dividing of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. <a href="/worsley/hebrews/4.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> For the word of God is lively and efficacious, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, and of the very joints and marrow, and judging the thoughts and intentions of the heart. <a href="/parallel/hebrews/4-12.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/x-IAXXp5zcA?start=597" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/hebrews/4.htm">God's Word is Living and Active</a> 11Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following the same pattern of disobedience. 12<a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.">For</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/3056.htm" title="3056: logos (N-NMS) -- From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression.">word</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tou (Art-GMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theou (N-GMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">of God</a> <a href="/greek/2198.htm" title="2198: Zōn (V-PPA-NMS) -- To live, be alive. A primary verb; to live.">is living</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/1756.htm" title="1756: energēs (Adj-NMS) -- Effective, productive of due result, at work. From en and ergon; active, operative.">active.</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/5114.htm" title="5114: tomōteros (Adj-NMS-C) -- Sharper, keener. Comparative of a derivative of the primary temno; more keen.">Sharper</a> <a href="/greek/5228.htm" title="5228: hyper (Prep) -- Gen: in behalf of; acc: above. ">than</a> <a href="/greek/3956.htm" title="3956: pasan (Adj-AFS) -- All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole.">any</a> <a href="/greek/1366.htm" title="1366: distomon (Adj-AFS) -- (lit: twain-mouthed; hence: of a sword, as a drinker of blood), two-edged. From dis and stoma; double-edged.">double-edged</a> <a href="/greek/3162.htm" title="3162: machairan (N-AFS) -- A sword. Probably feminine of a presumed derivative of mache; a knife, i.e. Dirk; figuratively, war, judicial punishment.">sword,</a> <a href="/greek/1338.htm" title="1338: diiknoumenos (V-PPM/P-NMS) -- To pass through (to), come through (to), pierce. From dia and the base of hikanos; to reach through, i.e. Penetrate.">it pierces</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">even</a> <a href="/greek/891.htm" title="891: achri (Prep) -- As far as, up to, until, during. Or achris akh'-rece; akin to akron; until or up to.">to</a> <a href="/greek/3311.htm" title="3311: merismou (N-GMS) -- From merizo; a separation or distribution.">dividing</a> <a href="/greek/5590.htm" title="5590: psychēs (N-GFS) -- From psucho; breath, i.e. spirit, abstractly or concretely.">soul</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/4151.htm" title="4151: pneumatos (N-GNS) -- Wind, breath, spirit. ">spirit,</a> <a href="/greek/5037.htm" title="5037: te (Conj) -- And, both. A primary particle of connection or addition; both or also."></a> <a href="/greek/719.htm" title="719: harmōn (N-GMP) -- A joint of the body. From the same as harma; an articulation.">joints</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/3452.htm" title="3452: myelōn (N-GMP) -- Marrow. Perhaps a primary word; the marrow.">marrow.</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/2924.htm" title="2924: kritikos (Adj-NMS) -- Critical, able to judge or discern. From krites; decisive, i.e. Discriminative.">It judges</a> <a href="/greek/1761.htm" title="1761: enthymēseōn (N-GFP) -- Inward thought, reflection, plur: thoughts. From enthumeomai; deliberation.">the thoughts</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/1771.htm" title="1771: ennoiōn (N-GFP) -- From a compound of en and nous; thoughtfulness, i.e. Moral understanding.">intentions</a> <a href="/greek/2588.htm" title="2588: kardias (N-GFS) -- Prolonged from a primary kar; the heart, i.e. the thoughts or feelings; also the middle.">of the heart.</a> 13Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight; everything is uncovered and exposed before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/ephesians/6-17.htm">Ephesians 6:17</a> And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. <a href="/isaiah/55-11.htm">Isaiah 55:11</a> so My word that proceeds from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please, and it will prosper where I send it. <a href="/jeremiah/23-29.htm">Jeremiah 23:29</a> “Is not My word like fire,” declares the LORD, “and like a hammer that smashes a rock?” <a href="/2_timothy/3-16.htm">2 Timothy 3:16-17</a> All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, / so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work. <a href="/psalms/119-105.htm">Psalm 119:105</a> Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. <a href="/john/1-1.htm">John 1:1-3</a> In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. / He was with God in the beginning. / Through Him all things were made, and without Him nothing was made that has been made. <a href="/revelation/1-16.htm">Revelation 1:16</a> He held in His right hand seven stars, and a sharp double-edged sword came from His mouth. His face was like the sun shining at its brightest. <a href="/proverbs/30-5.htm">Proverbs 30:5</a> Every word of God is flawless; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. <a href="/matthew/4-4.htm">Matthew 4:4</a> But Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” <a href="/1_peter/1-23.htm">1 Peter 1:23</a> For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. <a href="/psalms/19-7.htm">Psalm 19:7-8</a> The Law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is trustworthy, making wise the simple. / The precepts of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart; the commandments of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes. <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-13.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:13</a> And we continually thank God because, when you received the word of God that you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it truly is, the word of God, which is also now at work in you who believe. <a href="/luke/8-11.htm">Luke 8:11</a> Now this is the meaning of the parable: The seed is the word of God. <a href="/romans/1-16.htm">Romans 1:16</a> I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, then to the Greek. <a href="/james/1-21.htm">James 1:21</a> Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and every expression of evil, and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save your souls.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.the word.<a href="/hebrews/13-7.htm">Hebrews 13:7</a> Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.<a href="/isaiah/49-2.htm">Isaiah 49:2</a> And he hath made my mouth like a sharp sword; in the shadow of his hand hath he hid me, and made me a polished shaft; in his quiver hath he hid me;<a href="/luke/8-11.htm">Luke 8:11</a> Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God.is quick.<a href="/psalms/110-2.htm">Psalm 110:2</a> The LORD shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion: rule thou in the midst of thine enemies.<a href="/psalms/119-130.htm">Psalm 119:130</a> The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.<a href="/ecclesiastes/12-11.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:11</a> The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd.sharper.<a href="/psalms/45-3.htm">Psalm 45:3</a> Gird thy sword upon thy thigh, O most mighty, with thy glory and thy majesty.<a href="/psalms/149-6.htm">Psalm 149:6</a> Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a twoedged sword in their hand;<a href="/proverbs/5-4.htm">Proverbs 5:4</a> But her end is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a twoedged sword.and is.<a href="/psalms/139-2.htm">Psalm 139:2</a> Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off.<a href="/jeremiah/17-10.htm">Jeremiah 17:10</a> I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.<a href="/1_corinthians/14-24.htm">1 Corinthians 14:24,25</a> But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all: … <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/hebrews/4-6.htm">Able</a> <a href="/philemon/1-6.htm">Active</a> <a href="/acts/15-39.htm">Asunder</a> <a href="/philippians/1-10.htm">Discern</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-15.htm">Dividing</a> <a href="/hebrews/2-2.htm">Full</a> <a href="/hebrews/4-11.htm">God's</a> <a href="/hebrews/4-7.htm">Heart</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-10.htm">Intentions</a> <a href="/jeremiah/30-24.htm">Intents</a> <a href="/colossians/2-19.htm">Joints</a> <a href="/habakkuk/1-8.htm">Keener</a> <a href="/hebrews/2-16.htm">Life</a> <a href="/isaiah/25-6.htm">Marrow</a> <a href="/hebrews/4-2.htm">Message</a> <a href="/isaiah/36-6.htm">Pierces</a> <a href="/ezekiel/28-24.htm">Piercing</a> <a href="/hebrews/2-14.htm">Power</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/2-11.htm">Powerful</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-21.htm">Purposes</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-1.htm">Quick</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-25.htm">Secret</a> <a href="/micah/7-4.htm">Sharper</a> <a href="/job/41-30.htm">Sharpest</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-23.htm">Soul</a> <a href="/hebrews/3-7.htm">Spirit</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-17.htm">Sword</a> <a href="/hebrews/3-1.htm">Thoughts</a> <a href="/revelation/1-16.htm">Twoedged</a> <a href="/proverbs/5-4.htm">Two-Edged</a> <a href="/hebrews/4-6.htm">Word</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/hebrews/4-13.htm">Able</a> <a href="/james/2-22.htm">Active</a> <a href="/hebrews/11-37.htm">Asunder</a> <a href="/hebrews/5-14.htm">Discern</a> <a href="/genesis/49-27.htm">Dividing</a> <a href="/hebrews/5-14.htm">Full</a> <a href="/hebrews/4-13.htm">God's</a> <a href="/hebrews/6-12.htm">Heart</a> <a href="/1_chronicles/29-18.htm">Intentions</a> <a href="/jeremiah/23-20.htm">Intents</a> <a href="/1_kings/22-34.htm">Joints</a> <a href="/habakkuk/1-8.htm">Keener</a> <a href="/hebrews/5-7.htm">Life</a> <a href="/job/21-24.htm">Marrow</a> <a href="/hebrews/13-7.htm">Message</a> <a href="/2_kings/18-21.htm">Pierces</a> <a href="/psalms/22-16.htm">Piercing</a> <a href="/hebrews/6-5.htm">Power</a> <a href="/hebrews/11-34.htm">Powerful</a> <a href="/revelation/10-7.htm">Purposes</a> <a href="/james/1-19.htm">Quick</a> <a href="/revelation/1-20.htm">Secret</a> <a href="/micah/7-4.htm">Sharper</a> <a href="/job/41-30.htm">Sharpest</a> <a href="/hebrews/6-19.htm">Soul</a> <a href="/hebrews/6-4.htm">Spirit</a> <a href="/hebrews/11-34.htm">Sword</a> <a href="/james/2-4.htm">Thoughts</a> <a href="/revelation/1-16.htm">Twoedged</a> <a href="/revelation/1-16.htm">Two-Edged</a> <a href="/hebrews/5-12.htm">Word</a><div class="vheading2">Hebrews 4</div>1. <a href="/hebrews/4-1.htm">The Sabbath-Rest for Christians is attained by faith.</a> 12. <a href="/hebrews/4-12.htm">The power of God's word.</a> 14. <a href="/hebrews/4-14.htm">By our high priest Jesus, the Son of God,</a> 16. <a href="/hebrews/4-16.htm">we may and must go boldly to the throne of grace.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/hebrews/4.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/hebrews/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/hebrews/4.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>For the word of God is living and active. The phrase emphasizes the dynamic and powerful nature of God's word. Unlike static texts, the word of God is described as "living," indicating its ongoing relevance and ability to impact lives. The term "active" suggests that it is effective and accomplishes its purpose (<a href="/isaiah/55-11.htm">Isaiah 55:11</a>). The living nature of the word is seen in its ability to transform individuals, as evidenced in the lives of biblical figures like David and Paul. Historically, the word of God has been a catalyst for change, revival, and reformation throughout church history.Sharper than any double-edged sword, The imagery of a double-edged sword conveys the precision and penetrating power of God's word. In ancient times, a double-edged sword was a formidable weapon, capable of cutting in both directions. This metaphor highlights the word's ability to discern and penetrate deeply into the human condition. The sword imagery is also found in <a href="/ephesians/6-17.htm">Ephesians 6:17</a>, where the word of God is described as the "sword of the Spirit," indicating its role in spiritual warfare and defense against falsehood.it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. This phrase illustrates the depth of the word's penetration, reaching the innermost parts of a person. The distinction between "soul and spirit" suggests the word's ability to discern between the natural and spiritual aspects of human existence. "Joints and marrow" further emphasizes the thoroughness of this penetration, as these are the deepest parts of the physical body. The word's ability to reach such depths signifies its role in revealing truths about human nature and God's will.It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart. The word of God acts as a judge, evaluating the innermost thoughts and motives of individuals. This function aligns with the biblical theme of God as the ultimate judge (<a href="/psalms/139-23.htm">Psalm 139:23-24</a>). The heart, in biblical terms, represents the center of human will and emotion. By judging the heart, the word exposes hidden motives and brings them into alignment with God's standards. This process is essential for spiritual growth and sanctification, as believers are called to live lives that reflect God's holiness (<a href="/1_peter/1-15.htm">1 Peter 1:15-16</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/t/the_author_of_hebrews.htm">The Author of Hebrews</a> Traditionally attributed to Paul, though the exact authorship is uncertain. The author writes to Jewish Christians, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their faith. 2. <a href="/topical/j/jewish_christians.htm">Jewish Christians</a> The primary audience of the book of Hebrews, who were facing persecution and temptation to revert to Judaism. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_word_of_god.htm">The Word of God</a> Refers to both the Scriptures and Jesus Christ, the living Word, emphasizing the power and authority inherent in God's revelation. 4. <a href="/topical/d/double-edged_sword.htm">Double-edged Sword</a> A metaphor for the penetrating and discerning power of God's Word, capable of reaching the deepest parts of a person's being. 5. <a href="/topical/s/soul_and_spirit,_joints_and_marrow.htm">Soul and Spirit, Joints and Marrow</a> Symbolic of the innermost parts of a person, illustrating the depth to which God's Word can penetrate and discern.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_living_word.htm">The Living Word</a> God's Word is not static; it is alive and active, continually working in the lives of believers to transform and guide them. <a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_discernment.htm">The Power of Discernment</a> The Word of God has the unique ability to discern our innermost thoughts and intentions, calling us to live with integrity and sincerity. <a href="/topical/s/spiritual_surgery.htm">Spiritual Surgery</a> Just as a surgeon uses a scalpel to heal, God's Word penetrates deeply to bring about spiritual healing and growth. <a href="/topical/d/daily_engagement.htm">Daily Engagement</a> Regular engagement with Scripture is essential for spiritual vitality, equipping believers to face life's challenges with wisdom and strength. <a href="/topical/a/accountability_and_growth.htm">Accountability and Growth</a> Allowing God's Word to judge our thoughts and intentions helps us grow in holiness and align our lives with God's will.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_hebrews_4.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Hebrews 4</a> <a href="/q/bible_reading_benefits.htm">What are the benefits of reading the Bible?</a> <a href="/q/can_hebrews_4_12_be_proven_historically.htm">Hebrews 4:12 describes God’s word as “living and active.” Is there any historical or empirical way to substantiate this claim, or does it rely solely on faith? </a> <a href="/q/how_do_bible_versions_differ.htm">What are the differences between Bible versions and translations?</a> <a href="/q/how_do_millennials_and_gen_z_differ.htm">How do Millennials and Generation Z differ?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/hebrews/4.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(12) As in <a href="/hebrews/3-12.htm" title="Take heed, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.">Hebrews 3:12</a> the warning against the "evil heart of unbelief" is solemnly enforced by the mention of the "Living God," so here, in pointing to the peril of disobedience, it is to the living power of the word of God that the writer makes appeal. But in what sense? Does he bring before us again the word of Scripture, or the divine Word Himself? Outside the writings of St. John there is no passage in the New Testament in which the word of God is as clearly invested with personal attributes as here. The word is "quick" (that is, living), "powerful" (or, active--mighty in operation, as most of our versions render the word), "able to discern the thoughts of the heart." Philo, whose writings are pervaded by the doctrine of the divine Word (see the Note appended to St. John's Gospel in Vol. I. of this Commentary, p. 553), in certain passages makes use of expressions so remarkably resembling some that are before us in this verse that we cannot suppose the coincidence accidental. Thus, in an allegorical explanation of <a href="/genesis/15-10.htm" title="And he took to him all these, and divided them in the middle, and laid each piece one against another: but the birds divided he not.">Genesis 15:10</a>, he speaks of the sacred and divine Word as cutting through all things, dividing all perceptible objects, and penetrating even to those called indivisible, separating the different parts of the soul. But though these and the many other resemblances that are adduced may prove the writer's familiarity with the Alexandrian philosophy, they are wholly insufficient to show an adoption of Philo's doctrinal system (if system it could be called) in regard to the divine Word, or to rule the interpretation of the single passage in this Epistle in which an allusion to that system could be traced. Nor is the first-mentioned argument conclusive. There certainly is personification here, and in part the language used would, if it stood alone, even suggest the presence of a divine Person; but it is not easy to believe that in the New Testament the words "sharper than a two-edged sword" would be directly applied to the Son of God. In this Epistle, moreover (and even in this context, <a href="/hebrews/4-2.htm" title="For to us was the gospel preached, as well as to them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.">Hebrews 4:2</a>), reference is repeatedly made to the word of God in revelation, without a trace of any other meaning. The key to the language of this verse, so far as it is exceptional, is found in that characteristic of the Epistle to which reference has been already made--the habitual thought of Scripture as a direct divine utterance. The transition from such a conception to those of this verse was very easy; and we need not feel surprise if with expressions which are naturally applied to the utterance are joined others which lead the thought to God as Speaker. It is, therefore, the whole word of God that is brought before us--mainly the word of threatening and judgment, but also (comp. <a href="/hebrews/4-2.htm" title="For to us was the gospel preached, as well as to them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.">Hebrews 4:2</a> and the last member of this verse) the word of promise.Piercing even to the dividing asunder . . .--Rather, and piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, both joints and marrow. For the comparison of God's word to a sword see <a href="/isaiah/49-2.htm" title="And he has made my mouth like a sharp sword; in the shadow of his hand has he hid me, and made me a polished shaft; in his quiver has he hid me;">Isaiah 49:2</a>; <a href="/ephesians/6-17.htm" title="And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:">Ephesians 6:17</a>; (<a href="/revelation/1-16.htm" title="And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp two edged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shines in his strength.">Revelation 1:16</a>); comp. also <a href="//apocrypha.org/wisdom_of_solomon/18-15.htm" title="Thine Almighty word leaped down from heaven out of thy royal throne, as a fierce man of war into the midst of a land of destruction,">Wisdom Of Solomon 18:15-16</a>, "Thine Almighty word leapt down from heaven out of Thy royal throne . . . and brought Thine unfeigned commandment as a sharp sword, and standing up filled all things with death." The keen two-edged sword penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit (not soul from spirit), with unfailing stroke severing bone from bone and piercing the very marrow. The latter words, by a very natural metaphor, are transferred from the material frame to the soul and spirit. . . . <a href="/commentaries/hebrews/4-12.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>For γὰρ (gar) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1063.htm">Strong's 1063: </a> For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason. the ὁ (ho) Article - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. word λόγος (logos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3056.htm">Strong's 3056: </a> From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression. of God Θεοῦ (Theou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. [is] living Ζῶν (Zōn) Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2198.htm">Strong's 2198: </a> To live, be alive. A primary verb; to live. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. active. ἐνεργὴς (energēs) Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1756.htm">Strong's 1756: </a> Effective, productive of due result, at work. From en and ergon; active, operative. Sharper τομώτερος (tomōteros) Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular - Comparative <a href="/greek/strongs_5114.htm">Strong's 5114: </a> Sharper, keener. Comparative of a derivative of the primary temno; more keen. than ὑπὲρ (hyper) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_5228.htm">Strong's 5228: </a> Gen: in behalf of; acc: above. any πᾶσαν (pasan) Adjective - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3956.htm">Strong's 3956: </a> All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole. double-edged δίστομον (distomon) Adjective - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1366.htm">Strong's 1366: </a> (lit: twain-mouthed; hence: of a sword, as a drinker of blood), two-edged. From dis and stoma; double-edged. sword, μάχαιραν (machairan) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3162.htm">Strong's 3162: </a> A sword. Probably feminine of a presumed derivative of mache; a knife, i.e. Dirk; figuratively, war, judicial punishment. it pierces διϊκνούμενος (diiknoumenos) Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1338.htm">Strong's 1338: </a> To pass through (to), come through (to), pierce. From dia and the base of hikanos; to reach through, i.e. Penetrate. even καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. to ἄχρι (achri) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_891.htm">Strong's 891: </a> As far as, up to, until, during. Or achris akh'-rece; akin to akron; until or up to. dividing μερισμοῦ (merismou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3311.htm">Strong's 3311: </a> From merizo; a separation or distribution. soul ψυχῆς (psychēs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5590.htm">Strong's 5590: </a> From psucho; breath, i.e. spirit, abstractly or concretely. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. spirit, πνεύματος (pneumatos) Noun - Genitive Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4151.htm">Strong's 4151: </a> Wind, breath, spirit. joints ἁρμῶν (harmōn) Noun - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_719.htm">Strong's 719: </a> A joint of the body. From the same as harma; an articulation. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. marrow. μυελῶν (myelōn) Noun - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3452.htm">Strong's 3452: </a> Marrow. Perhaps a primary word; the marrow. It judges κριτικὸς (kritikos) Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2924.htm">Strong's 2924: </a> Critical, able to judge or discern. From krites; decisive, i.e. Discriminative. [the] thoughts ἐνθυμήσεων (enthymēseōn) Noun - Genitive Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1761.htm">Strong's 1761: </a> Inward thought, reflection, plur: thoughts. From enthumeomai; deliberation. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. intentions ἐννοιῶν (ennoiōn) Noun - Genitive Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1771.htm">Strong's 1771: </a> From a compound of en and nous; thoughtfulness, i.e. Moral understanding. of [the] heart. καρδίας (kardias) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2588.htm">Strong's 2588: </a> Prolonged from a primary kar; the heart, i.e. the thoughts or feelings; also the middle. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/hebrews/4-12.htm">Hebrews 4:12 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/hebrews/4-12.htm">Hebrews 4:12 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/hebrews/4-12.htm">Hebrews 4:12 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/hebrews/4-12.htm">Hebrews 4:12 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/hebrews/4-12.htm">Hebrews 4:12 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/hebrews/4-12.htm">Hebrews 4:12 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/hebrews/4-12.htm">Hebrews 4:12 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/hebrews/4-12.htm">Hebrews 4:12 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/hebrews/4-12.htm">Hebrews 4:12 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/hebrews/4-12.htm">Hebrews 4:12 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/hebrews/4-12.htm">NT Letters: Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is living (Heb. 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