What does Hebrews 13:2 mean?
“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.”
Quick answer
Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.
What it means
Hospitality is concrete: opening one's home, table, and time to those who are not family or friends yet.
"Entertained angels unawares" looks back to Abraham at Mamre and Lot in Sodom — strangers were not what they seemed.
In Christian community, hospitality has always been a frontline ministry. The stranger may carry God's message and presence.
Keep exploring
Original BibleDawn explanation · reviewed 2026-06-07. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.