Is the Greek word “de” (1161) necessary for an accurate English translation of Hebrews 9:27?
The ESV translation creates an implied redundant judgment concept in the reader’s mind.
Heb 9:27 And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment, ESV
The KJV implies the same thing but does not, in its translation state it as obviously as the ESV.
Heb 9:27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this “the” judgment:
The above translation is an exact quote from the KJV. I simply eliminated the word “the” in the following sentence, since the Greek word “de” (1161) can be a simple continuative word.
“It is appointed unto men once to die after this judgment.”
This direct statement from Heb 9:27 is seen to be in conflict with the parables of Rev chapters 2,20 and 21 and the references to a “Second Death”. This seeming disagreement is reconciled by referring to Jesus own statement . In Mark 4:11-12. There He said that the purpose of a parable was to mislead unbelievers. So the comments regarding the Second death, although true are purposely veiled and the truths are concealed from those who are unlearned.
Thus, the judgment can be seen to have already been accomplished and the result was death.
There is no judgment after the sentence of death has been pronounced. Death is God’s judgment upon sin.
Eze 18:4 Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine: the soul that sinneth, it shall die.
Jesus died once, v 26, and Man dies once as a result of sinning, v 27.
Verse 28 then says that Jesus bore the sins of the people that “look for Him”. His followers then do not die as a result of God’s judgment. They are not judged guilty and sentenced to death.
The concept of ascribing judgment after death is incorrect because death is God’s judgment upon sin.
The insertion of a definite article (de 1161) causes a faulty doctrinal construct within the English translations of this verse resulting in a perceived redundant judgment, “after” the sentence of death has already been imposed.