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Hebrews 6:6 – Impossible – Causal or Temporal?
A causal translation reads as most do, including the NASB – it is impossible to renew them again to repentance, since they again crucify to themselves the Son of God and put Him to open shame.
A temporal translation, which is the minority view, translates such:
- IVS (International Standard Version) – and who have fallen away, as long as they continue to crucify to themselves the Son of God and to expose him to public ridicule.
- CJB (Complete Jewish Bible) – and then have fallen away – it is impossible to renew them so that they turn from their sin, as long as for themselves they keep executing the Son of God on the stake all over again and keep holding him up to public contempt.
Some translations chose not to make a choice:
- ALT (Analytical Literal Translation – and having fallen away, to be renewing [them] again to repentance, having crucified again to themselves the Son of God and having publicly disgraced [Him].
- LITV (Literal Translation of the Holy Bible) – and having fallen away, it is impossible for them again to renew to repentance, crucifying again for themselves the Son of God, and putting Him to open shame.
The Amplified Bible includes both – If they then deviate from the faith and turn away from their allegiance–[it is impossible] to bring them back to repentance, for (because, while, as long as) they nail upon the cross the Son of God afresh [as far as they are concerned] and are holding [Him] up to contempt and shame and public disgrace.
The determination is the context. Whether or not the correct understanding is temporal or causal, the meaning is the same, although a temporal translation is easier to understand and explain. While we neglect and because we neglect the sacrifice of Jesus, it is impossible for us to be saved. Likewise, when turn again and because we accept our High Priest, we can be brought to repentance.
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