Fathers

Loading…

What the Fathers say

Hebrews 5:2

Eastern Fathers

Theophylact of Ohrid

That is, to bring into proportion, to sympathize, to condescend, and to grant forgiveness to those who sin out of ignorance. But observe that ignorance and error produce every sin. For although it may seem that someone knows evil, yet, being darkened at the moment of action, he suffers from ignorance and error, carried away by the allure of pleasure. …

Commentary on Hebrews ↗

Oecumenius

"To deal gently." That is, to be sympathetic, to accommodate, and to forgive those who are ignorant, that is, those who sin out of ignorance and are misguided. And for those going astray, he says, from the people. "he himself is also surrounded by weakness." The simple interpretation, which I think is also the truer one, is this: that for this reason the high priest is gentle toward those who are ignorant; because he himself is subject to weakness; and knowing the measure of human weakness in himself, he also measures out mercy. …

The Pseudo-Oecumenian Catena on Hebrews ↗

Western Saints

Thomas Aquinas

245. – Then (v. 2) he shows what is required in the exercise of the high priesthood, namely, pity. In regard to this he does three things: first, he shows that for the exercise of the high priesthood mercy and compassion are required; secondly, a merciful motive (v. 2b); thirdly, the sign of mercy (v. 3). 246. – He says therefore: I say that he must be in the things that appertain to God; yet he should be mediator between man and God: 'I was the mediator and stood between the Lord and you at that time' (Dt. 5:5). …

Commentary on Hebrews ↗