Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.Hebrews 11:1
What does Hebrews 11:1 mean?
This verse offers a description of faith as confidence in what is hoped for and conviction about what is not seen. It defines faith not as blind guessing, but as a real, substantial trust in realities not yet visible.
Context
Hebrews 11:1 opens what's often called the 'faith chapter,' which goes on to recount example after example of Old Testament figures — Abel, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Moses, and others — who lived by this kind of faith (Hebrews 11:2-40). The verse functions as a thesis statement for the examples that follow, written to encourage believers under pressure to keep trusting God despite hardship.
Key themes
Related Bible verses
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
Bible study
- How does this verse describe faith differently from just 'believing without evidence'?
- Why do you think the author follows this definition with a long list of historical examples?
- What 'things hoped for' or 'not seen' are you currently exercising faith about?
Prayer
A short devotional prayer inspired by this verse — not scripture
Lord, grow my faith — give me confidence in what I hope for in You, and conviction about what I can't yet see. Amen.
Memorize this verse
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
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Frequently asked questions
Why is Hebrews 11 called 'the faith chapter'?
Because it opens with this description of faith (v.1) and then recounts a long list of Old Testament figures who exemplified faith in action (vv.2-40).
What does 'substance' mean in this verse?
It conveys the idea of a firm foundation or confident assurance — faith gives real, substantial grounding to hope, rather than being vague or uncertain.