Hebrews 9:17 - New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition 2021

For a will takes effect only at death, since it is not in force as long as the one who made it is alive.

More versions

King James Version (Oxford) 1769

For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth.

Amplified Bible - Classic Edition

For a will and testament is valid and takes effect only at death, since it has no force or legal power as long as the one who made it is alive.

American Standard Version (1901)

For a testament is of force where there hath been death: for it doth never avail while he that made it liveth.

Common English Bible

This is because a will takes effect only after a death, since it’s not in force while the one who made the will is alive.

Catholic Public Domain Version

For a testament is confirmed by death. Otherwise, it as yet has no force, as long as the one who testifies lives.

Douay-Rheims version of The Bible - 1752 version

For a testament is of force, after men are dead: otherwise it is as yet of no strength, whilst the testator liveth.

Hebrews 9:17 Cross References

Genesis 48:21

Then Israel said to Joseph, “I am about to die, but God will be with you and will bring you again to the land of your ancestors.

John 14:27

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.

Galatians 3:15

Brothers and sisters, I give an example from daily life: once a person’s will has been ratified, no one adds to it or annuls it.

Hebrews 9:16

Where a will is involved, the death of the one who made it must be established.

Hebrews 9:18

Hence not even the first covenant was inaugurated without blood.