What Does Hebrews 13:5 Mean?
Hebrews 13:5 meaning explained verse-by-verse: "Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I..." Original language, context & application.
"Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee."
— Hebrews 13:5 (KJV)
The Plain Meaning
The author connects contentment to God's promise of presence. Because God will never leave us, we don't need to grasp for more. His presence is enough.
Word Study
This phrase uses a double negative (ou mē) for emphatic denial—the strongest way in Greek to say 'absolutely never.' 'Anō' means to let go or abandon. Five negatives appear in the Greek text, making this the most emphatic promise of God's presence in all Scripture.
Living It Out
Contentment comes from knowing God is with you always. When His presence is your greatest treasure, material concerns fade in comparison.
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