Thursday, January 18, 2024

Sigurd Grindheim on Hebrews 7:25 and απαραβατος meaning "unalterable"

  

With the adjective that is translated “unalterable” (aparabatos), the author underscores the decisive nature of the change that has taken place. This term is attested in papyri, where it is found in business contracts, stipulating that the terms of a contract can never be changed (M[oulton]M[illigan]). Whereas the Levitical priests kept being replaced and the legislation on which they based their existence was overturned and abolished (vv. 12, 18). Jesus has a priesthood that never changes. (Sigurd Grindheim, The Letter to the Hebrews [The Pillar New Testament Commentary; Grand Rapids, Mich.: Eerdmans, 2023], 368)