Hebrews 9:17

For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth.

King James Version

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Other Translations for Hebrews 9:17

BSB

because a will does not take effect until the one who made it has died; it cannot be executed while he is still alive.

AKJV

For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator lives.

CPDV

For a testament is confirmed by death. Otherwise, it as yet has no force, as long as the one who testifies lives.

ERV

For a testament is of force where there hath been death: for doth it ever avail while he that made it liveth?

NHEB

For a will is in force where there has been death, for it is never in force while he who made it lives.

SMT

For a will is firm by the dead: since it has no power when he having willed lives.

Word Study (Strong’s) for Hebrews 9:17

ForG1063ConjunctionatestamentG1242Noun FeminineisofforceG949Adjective afterG1909PrepositionmenaredeadG3498Adjective otherwiseG1893ConjunctionitisofG2480Verb noG3379Conjunction strengthG2480VerbatallG3379Conjunction whileG3753thetestatorG1303Verb livethG2198Verb

Commentary for Hebrews 9:17

Please note: this is not Scripture

These study resources are provided for informational purposes only. They reflect human interpretation, are subject to human error, and should not be considered divinely inspired or authoritative.

Barnes’ Notes Classic commentary from Albert Barnes Matthew Henry Commentary Classic commentary from Matthew Henry

Overview of Hebrews 9:17

Summary

Agreement becomes effective only after testator's demise

Event

Explaining testament activation requirement

Estimated Time Period

1st century AD