Hebrews 5:2

2 He is able to deal gently with those who have gone down the wrong path without knowing it. He can do that because he himself is weak.

Hebrews 5:2 Meaning and Commentary

Hebrews 5:2

Who can have compassion on the ignorant
Who have committed sins of ignorance, and bring their sacrifices for them; these he does not insult and upbraid, nor break out into anger and indignation against; but pities them, and sympathizes with them; has a just measure of compassion suitable to their condition, and bears with them with great moderation and temper:

and on them that are out of the way;
of God's commandments; who are like sheep going astray, and turn to their own way; who transgress the law of God, and err from it; perhaps such who sin knowingly and wilfully, and through infirmity, are meant:

for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity;
not of body only, but of mind, sinful infirmity; he had much of it, it beset him all around; he was "clothed" with it, as the Syriac version renders it; as Joshua the high priest was with filthy garments, ( Zechariah 3:3 ) .

Hebrews 5:2 In-Context

1 Every high priest is chosen from among men. He is appointed to act for them in everything that has to do with God. He offers gifts and sacrifices for their sins.

2 He is able to deal gently with those who have gone down the wrong path without knowing it. He can do that because he himself is weak.

3 That's why he has to offer sacrifices for his own sins. He must also do it for the sins of the people.

4 No one can take that honor for himself. He must be appointed by God, just as Aaron was.

5 Even Christ did not take the glory of becoming a high priest for himself. God said to him, "You are my Son. Today I have become your Father." (Psalm 2:7)