Note: I have come across a PHD thesis by David Mark Heath, 2011, University of Stellenbosch.
The summary of the history of chiasmus is useful. One quote is as follows:
“In his 1742 book Gnomon Novi Testamenti, German scholar John Albert Bengel mentions the presence of chiastic structures in the book of Hebrews. In his introduction to Hebrews, he states, “The Chiasmus is so common in this epistle, that the observation of this figure alone contributes very much to explanation of the epistle” (1742/1970:2.578). He refers to finding chiastic structures in all thirteen chapters. However, although Bengel mentions the existence of chiastic structures in the text itself, he does not clearly define the structures.”
I haven’t had opportunity to compare what we have on the website with this thesis but here is one of interest –
“A number of scholars suggest a chiastic structuring of Heb 5:1-10 that highlights a contrast between the high priest (vv1-4) and Jesus (vv5-10) (Lightfoot 1976:47; Neeley 1987:15).”
A The function of a high priest is to offer sacrifices for sin v1
(1) For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins:
B The qualifications of a high priest are to be:
B1 Gentle and understanding with people v2-3
(2) Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity. (3) And by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins.
B2 Appointed by God not by himself v4
(4) And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron.
C Jesus has these qualifications
B2′ He was appointed by God v5-6
(5) So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee.
(6) As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.
B1′ He shared human sufferings v7-8
(7) Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; (8) Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;
A’ So Jesus can perform the functions of a high priest v9-10
(9) And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; (10) Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec.
Note: RS has suggested that verses 5- 10 are a chiasm focussed on the Son learning obedience. Perhaps verses 1-4 can be considered a chiasm also.
A.(1) For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins:
B. (2) Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way;
C. for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity.
B’.(3) And by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins.
A’.(4) And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron.