“of the doctrine of baptisms, of laying on of hands, of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment” (Hebrews 6:2).
There is some question regarding the exact meaning of the word “baptisms” here in Hebrews 6:2. For instance, the original language of this passage conveys the idea of “washings.” One commentator offers the following clarification regarding the use of this word: “The Greek word translated ‘washings’ is baptismos, which refers to Jewish ceremonial washings whenever it occurs in the New Testament (Mark 7:4, 8; Heb. 9:10). A different Greek word (baptisma) describes Christian baptism.” (1)
If the author of Hebrews had these ceremonial washings in mind, we can say that the need for such things was fulfilled through Jesus’ sacrificial death. As Jesus Himself said, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them” (Matthew 5:7 ESV).
Thus, we can say that our author is encouraging his readers to move forward from their elementary understanding of these Old Testament rituals and their fulfillment in Christ. To quote the source referenced earlier, “‘Purification by the blood of Christ has accomplished infinitely more than what Levitical washings did under the Old Covenant.'” (2)
On the other hand, it is possible that the author of Hebrews has something more than just these rituals in mind. If we expand this idea to include baptisms as well, then we might consider several other potential applications. For instance, this verse may reference the act of water baptism as recorded in the Gospels and referenced in the New Testament book of Acts (see also 1 Peter 3:21).
Another form of baptism is described in the Biblical book of Romans: “…do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:3-4).
We also have the baptism of the Holy Spirit as identified by John the Baptist in Luke 3:16: “I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”
So while this passage may be open to interpretation, the basic application remains unchanged: “baptism” is a foundational doctrine that enables us to move forward into spiritual maturity.
(1) Constable, Thomas. DD, Notes on Hebrews 2022 Edition “2. The needed remedy 6:1-3” [6:2] https://www.planobiblechapel.org/tcon/notes/html/nt/hebrews/hebrews.htm
(2) J. Paul Tanner, “The Epistle to the Hebrews,” in The Grace New Testament Commentary, 2:1052, quoted in Constable, Thomas. DD., Notes on Hebrews 2022 Edition, [6:2] https://www.planobiblechapel.org/tcon/notes/html/nt/hebrews/hebrews.htm