Book of Hebrews - Chapter 1 - Verse 13
Meaning
Hebrews 1:13 raises the question of the superiority of Jesus over the angels. The verse alludes to the Old Testament Psalm 110:1, where God the Father invites someone to sit at His right hand until His enemies are made a footstool. The traditional Jewish interpretation of this verse was that the figure being addressed was an angel or the Davidic king. However, the author of Hebrews presents a different perspective. By quoting this verse, the author emphasizes that God never spoke such words to any angel, indicating the unique status of Jesus. The invitation to sit at the right hand of God signifies the highest place of honor, authority, and power. The imagery of enemies being made a footstool beneath one's feet signifies complete victory and dominion. In this way, Hebrews 1:13 underscores the exaltation and supremacy of Jesus over all creation, including the angels.
Theological Overview
This verse from Hebrews highlights the superiority of the Son over the angels. The author of Hebrews is emphasizing that Jesus holds a special place of honor and power at the right hand of God, a position never granted to angels. The phrase "Sit on my right hand" is a symbol of the highest authority and power, indicating that Jesus is exalted above all creation. The reference to making Jesus' enemies his footstool echoes Psalm 110:1, a Messianic psalm that speaks of the victorious rule of the coming King. In Jewish tradition, a person placing their feet on an enemy’s neck symbolizes complete victory and control. This verse emphasizes the unique status of Jesus as the exalted Son of God, far above the angels and all other powers, and points to his ultimate triumph over all opposition.