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also seems to preclude the idea of assuming, as in the rendering `assuming the nature of
angels'. It simply means to take hold upon, whether good or evil motives and objects.
We have already observed that the A.V. italics make Heb. 2: 16 a somewhat needless
repetition. May there not be some meaning which has been on the surface all the while?
We believe there is. There is a footnote in The Emphatic Diaglott which reads, "For truly
it", i.e., the fear of death, or death itself, `does not lay hold of, or seize on angels, but of
the seed of Abraham it does lay hold'. (Theolog Ref. and Kneeland). Those of our
readers who are not conversant with the original must know that the `he' or the `it' is
contained within the verb epilambanomai, and epilambanetai means equally it, as well as
he, takes hold. Let us look at the structure again, verses 14-16 are included together there
under one member:
C | 14-16. Oneness in death and deliverance. |
a | The death of Christ.
The destruction of the Devil who had the strength of death.
a | The deliverance of those subject to bondage of fear of death.
The seed of Abraham laid hold of by fear of death.
With the exception of the fourth line, the emphatic word is death. If the A.V. reading
be retained it introduces a discordant note. If the idea of `assisting' is adopted it
harmonizes with `deliverance', but has no relation with the emphatic word `death'. What
has Scripture to say about angels and death? Luke 20: 35, 36 says:
"But they which are accounted worthy to obtain that age (the very pith and marrow of
Hebrews) and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry nor are given in marriage
NEITHER CAN THEY DIE ANY MORE FOR THEY ARE EQUAL TO THE
ANGELS."
If the seed of Abraham, and flesh and blood, were laid hold of by the fear of death and
thereby brought into bondage, Christ's becoming flesh and delivering them from that
bondage is a fitting sequel.
"Wherefore in all things it behooved Him to be made like unto His brethren that He
might be a merciful and faithful High Priest" (verse 17).