Devine Scripture

Hebrews 1:8

What does Hebrews 1:8 mean?

A plain-English look at Hebrews 1:8 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Hebrews 1:8 means

In striking contrast, about the Son God says, “Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever; And the sceptre of uprightness is the sceptre of thy kingdom.” Here the Son is directly addressed as God and enthroned eternally. His reign is marked by righteousness—He rules with straightness and justice at the core of His administration. This is not a temporary appointment but an everlasting kingship. The verse makes explicit that the Son is not merely above angels by degree; He is of a different category—divine, sovereign, and righteous. His throne, scepter, and forever-kingdom reveal His unassailable authority and the moral nature of His rule.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

but of the Sonhe saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever; And the sceptre of uprightness is the sceptre of thy kingdom.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

but of the Sonhe saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever; And the sceptre of uprightness is the sceptre of thy kingdom.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

But of the Son he says, Your seat of power, O God, is for ever and ever; and the rod of your kingdom is a rod of righteousness.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

and unto the Son: `Thy throne, O God, <FI>is<Fi> to the age of the age; a sceptre of righteousness <FI>is<Fi> the sceptre of thy reign;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

But to the Son: Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of justice is the sceptre of thy kingdom.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

but as to the Son, Thy throne, OGod, [is] to the age of the age, and a sceptre of uprightness [is] the sceptre of thy kingdom.

Context

Verse 8 shifts from angels as servants (v. 7) to the Son as God and King. It is the heart of the argument: the Son shares the divine name and sits on an eternal throne. This prepares verse 9, which explains the ethical basis and joyful anointing of His kingship. The progression shows not only the Son’s status but also the character of His reign. Together, verses 8–9 form a cohesive portrait of His royal, righteous authority in contrast to angelic servanthood.

v.7And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels winds, And his ministers a flame of fire:

v.8This passage

v.9Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; Therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee With the oil of gladness above thy fellows.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Psalms 72:7

    In his days shall the righteous flourish, And abundance of peace, till the moon be no more.

  • Psalms 72:11

    Yea, all kings shall fall down before him; All nations shall serve him.

  • Psalms 45:6

    Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: A sceptre of equity is the sceptre of thy kingdom.

  • John 10:30

    I and the Father are one.

  • Psalms 99:4

    The king’s strength also loveth justice; Thou dost establish equity; Thou executest justice and righteousness in Jacob.

  • Psalms 145:13

    Thy kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, And thy dominion endureth throughout all generations.

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