The word δυσερμήνευτος (Strong’s Greek 1421) combines δυσ- (“with difficulty”) and ἐρμηνεύω (“to interpret” or “to explain”). It characterises a message whose depth or complexity surpasses the hearer’s present ability—or willingness—to grasp.

Biblical context in Hebrews

Hebrews 5:11 stands at the transition between the exposition of Christ’s high-priestly work “in the order of Melchizedek” (Hebrews 5:6) and a warning against spiritual sluggishness. “Concerning this we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing”.

1. “Hard to explain” does not indict the doctrine itself but the spiritual lethargy of the audience.
2. The statement prepares for both reproof (Hebrews 5:12-14) and encouragement (Hebrews 6:9-12).
3. The chosen word underlines the Epistle’s pattern: profound Christology coupled with pastoral urgency.

Theological significance: readiness and receptivity

• Revelation in Scripture is sufficient, yet its riches unfold progressively to those who grow in faith (Proverbs 2:3-5; 1 Corinthians 2:14-15).
• Spiritual immaturity renders even basic truths “milk” (Hebrews 5:12), whereas maturity welcomes “solid food” (Hebrews 5:14).
• The Spirit illumines the heart, but believers must “pay much closer attention to what we have heard” (Hebrews 2:1).

Hermeneutical implications

1. Depth does not negate clarity; rather, clarity is apprehended through humble, diligent study (2 Timothy 2:15).
2. Teachers must balance fidelity to the text with sensitivity to the congregation’s capacity (Nehemiah 8:8; Luke 24:27).
3. The verse anticipates later concerns about “things hard to understand” (2 Peter 3:16) and reminds interpreters to guard against twisting truth.

Historical reception

• Origen saw the remark as proof that divine mysteries are disclosed in stages, urging readers toward moral purification to receive deeper insight.
• John Chrysostom linked the phrase to negligence, warning that spiritual indifference, not intellectual deficiency, breeds obscurity.
• Reformers highlighted the pastoral tone: Scripture is perspicuous in essentials, yet diligent exposition is required for its more intricate portions.

Practical ministry applications

• Preachers: present the whole counsel of God while leading listeners from foundational doctrines to advanced themes.
• Disciple-makers: diagnose whether difficulty arises from the subject or from dullness of hearing, then prescribe study, prayer, and obedience.
• Believers: cultivate a teachable spirit; “let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity” (Hebrews 6:1).

Related scriptural parallels

John 6:60 – “This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?”

Proverbs 1:5 – “Let the wise listen and increase in learning.”

Luke 8:18 – “Pay attention to how you listen.”

2 Peter 3:16 – “Some things are hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist.”

Acts 8:30-31 – “How can I, unless someone guides me?”

Conclusion

Strong’s 1421 appears only once, yet its solitary use powerfully reminds the Church that divine revelation, while complete in Christ, yields its treasures to those who hear with diligence, reverence, and growing maturity.