2:17 like unto his brethren. Christ had to be a true man in all points, from conception to death, apart from innate sin. This required a miraculous, virginal, conception, but in every other respect he partook of true human flesh.

2:17 high priest. This is the first specific reference to Christ as our High Priest, a theme which is prominent throughout the rest of Hebrews.

2:18 tempted. See note on Hebrews 4:15.