Lexical Summary duserméneutos: Difficult to interpret Original Word: δυσερμήνευτος Strong's Exhaustive Concordance hard to utter or explain. From dus- and a presumed derivative of hermeneuo; difficult of explanation -- hard to be uttered. see GREEK dus- see GREEK hermeneuo NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom dus- and herméneuó Definition hard of interpretation NASB Translation hard to explain (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 1421: δυσερμήνευτοςδυσερμήνευτος, δυσερμηνευτον (ἑρμηνεύω), hard to interpret, difficult of explanation: Hebrews 5:11. (Diodorus 2, 52; Philo de somn. § 32 at the end; Artemidorus Daldianus, oneir. 3, 66.) Topical Lexicon Term and linguistic insight The word δυσερμήνευτος (Strong’s Greek 1421) combines δυσ- (“with difficulty”) and ἐρμηνεύω (“to interpret” or “to explain”). It characterises a message whose depth or complexity surpasses the hearer’s present ability—or willingness—to grasp. Biblical context in Hebrews Hebrews 5:11 stands at the transition between the exposition of Christ’s high-priestly work “in the order of Melchizedek” (Hebrews 5:6) and a warning against spiritual sluggishness. “Concerning this we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing”. 1. “Hard to explain” does not indict the doctrine itself but the spiritual lethargy of the audience. Theological significance: readiness and receptivity • Revelation in Scripture is sufficient, yet its riches unfold progressively to those who grow in faith (Proverbs 2:3-5; 1 Corinthians 2:14-15). Hermeneutical implications 1. Depth does not negate clarity; rather, clarity is apprehended through humble, diligent study (2 Timothy 2:15). Historical reception • Origen saw the remark as proof that divine mysteries are disclosed in stages, urging readers toward moral purification to receive deeper insight. Practical ministry applications • Preachers: present the whole counsel of God while leading listeners from foundational doctrines to advanced themes. Related scriptural parallels John 6:60 – “This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?” Proverbs 1:5 – “Let the wise listen and increase in learning.” Luke 8:18 – “Pay attention to how you listen.” 2 Peter 3:16 – “Some things are hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist.” Acts 8:30-31 – “How can I, unless someone guides me?” Conclusion Strong’s 1421 appears only once, yet its solitary use powerfully reminds the Church that divine revelation, while complete in Christ, yields its treasures to those who hear with diligence, reverence, and growing maturity. Forms and Transliterations δυσερμηνευτος δυσερμήνευτος δύσιν δυσκολίας dusermeneutos dusermēneutos dysermeneutos dysermēneutos dysermḗneutosLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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