What does Hebrews 5:6 mean?

As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. Hebrews 5:6

Explanation

Hebrews 5:6 refers to a declaration made by God about Jesus Christ, identifying Him as a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek. The verse is a quotation from Psalm 110:4, where the psalmist writes of the Messiah’s priesthood. Unlike the Levitical priesthood that descended from Aaron and was based on genealogical descent, the order of Melchizedek represents a different kind of priesthood — one that is eternal, not tied to an ancestry, and is based on personal calling from God.

The deeper meaning of this verse reflects the superiority of Christ’s priesthood. It suggests that Jesus’ priestly role transcends the traditional Jewish priesthood and is everlasting. The reference to Melchizedek connects Jesus to a mysterious and ancient figure who was both a king and a priest, thereby emphasizing both Jesus’ royal and priestly natures.

Historical Context

The Book of Hebrews was written to a group of early Christians who came from a Jewish background, likely before the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in 70 A.D. These believers would have been familiar with the Old Testament scriptures and the Levitical priesthood which was central to Jewish religious life. The use of Old Testament quotes and concepts, like the reference to Melchizedek, was meant to illustrate the supremacy of Christ’s new covenant compared to the old covenant.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse can be understood in various ways. In Protestant theology, it underscores the completeness and sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice and his ongoing role as an intercessor for humanity before God. Catholic and Orthodox traditions may also interpret it as a foundation for the priesthood of Jesus, which is participated in by ordained priests through apostolic succession. Furthermore, some theologians might emphasize the mystery of Melchizedek as prefiguration of the Incarnation, where Jesus embodies both divine and human natures.

Practical Applications

In daily life, this verse can encourage believers to trust in the perpetual intercession of Jesus on their behalf. Christ as a “priest forever” assures Christians that they have an eternal advocate before God. It also invites believers to ponder the nature of service and leadership, as exemplified by Jesus, and to consider how they might emulate his compassionate and sacrificial role in their own lives.

Cross-References

• Psalm 110:4: “The LORD hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.”
• Hebrews 6:20: “Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.”
• Hebrews 7:17: “For he testifieth, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.”

Language Study

The key word in the original Greek text from Hebrews 5:6 is “τάξεως” (taxis), which can be translated as “order” or “arrangement”. The use of this word suggests an ordained structure or specific manner of priesthood that is set by divine authority. The phrase “εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα” (eis ton aiōna) translates to “for ever,” signifying a priesthood that has no end.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Melchizedek is a figure who first appears in Genesis 14, where he blesses Abram and is described as “priest of the Most High God.” His uniqueness lies in the absence of genealogical context, making him an enigmatic character. This priesthood order is often compared to ancient mythological figures who were both kings and religious leaders. The Melchizedek priesthood stands in contrast to other ancient religious systems which were typically inherited or attained through human lineage.

Scientific Perspectives

A direct intersection of this verse with modern scientific understandings is not overt, as this is a theological statement beyond the scope of empirical science. However, the concept of a priesthood “forever” might touch on the philosophical or theoretical discussions about time, eternity, and the nature of existence, topics with which some areas of theoretical physics engage.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians offer a range of interpretations for Hebrews 5:6. Many agree that the emphasis is on the divine appointment of Jesus as a priest in an order that predates and transcends the Levitical priesthood. Commentators such as Matthew Henry have noted this as a comforting assurance of Christ’s completed work and his ongoing presence with God on behalf of believers. F. F. Bruce and other modern biblical scholars have highlighted the importance of understanding the cultural and religious background of Jewish Christians to fully grasp the significance of the comparison with Melchizedek.