1. Hebrews 5:2 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

What image lies behind the verb "is beset"?

Hebrews 5:2 (ESV)

2 He can deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is beset with weakness.

The verb used (perikeitai) is reminiscent of being burdened with a garment (see Hebrews 12:1; Acts 28:20). The high priest himself also sins. He is a sinner in the midst of a congregation full of sinners.1