What does Hebrews 7:1 mean?

For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; Hebrews 7:1

Explanation

Hebrews 7:1 introduces Melchisedec (Melchizedek), a figure who appears briefly in the Old Testament. Literally, the verse describes him as the “king of Salem” and a “priest of the most high God,” who met and blessed Abraham after his victory over the kings. On a deeper level, this verse sets the stage for the author of Hebrews to draw parallels between Melchizedek and Jesus Christ in terms of their priesthoods, suggesting an eternal and superior priesthood compared to the Levitical priesthood.

Historical Context

Hebrews is a New Testament book written to a group of Jewish Christians who were familiar with the Old Testament. The mention of Melchizedek refers back to a story in Genesis 14, where Abraham encounters this king and priest after rescuing his nephew Lot. The context in Hebrews is the explanation of Jesus’ priesthood, which the author claims is in the order of Melchizedek, transcending the Aaronic priesthood of the Levitical line.

Theological Insights

Theologically, Melchizedek is seen as a type of Christ—a figure who prefigures Christ. The reference indicates that Jesus’ priesthood, like Melchizedek’s, is not based on hereditary Levitical lines but is a higher, divinely appointed priestly order. Discussions vary among denominations. Some see this as a proof of the superiority of Christ’s priesthood, whereas others see it as a typological illustration of Jesus’ role as mediator.

Practical Applications

The teachings of this verse can help believers understand the priesthood of Jesus in their lives. It encourages Christians to rely on Jesus’ eternal intercessory role for them, strengthening their faith in the permanence and efficacy of Jesus’ mediation and blessings. It is also an invitation for believers to consider their roles as a “royal priesthood” in reflecting God’s blessings to others.

Cross-References

• Genesis 14:18-20: “And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God.”
• Psalm 110:4: “The LORD hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.”
• Hebrews 5:6: “As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.”
• Hebrews 6:20: “Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.”

Language Study

The name “Melchisedec” in the original Hebrew is מַלְכִּי־צֶדֶק (Malki-Tzedek), which means “king of righteousness.” “Salem,” שָׁלֵם (Shalem), likely refers to ancient Jerusalem and means “peace.” Thus, his name and title express kingly and priestly attributes bound up in righteousness and peace.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Melchizedek’s figure is unique and intriguing due to the scant historical details. In Jewish tradition, he is sometimes identified with Shem, the son of Noah. Other ancient myths have god-king figures that bridge divine and human realms, but Melchizedek stands out in the biblical narrative serving the “most high God” and blessing Abraham.

Scientific Perspectives

There is no direct scientific evidence for the existence of Melchizedek and his link to Salem or specific historical events. The discussion of his role is more theological and literary than scientific. However, archaeology can shed light on the historical realities of ancient Jerusalem, known as Salem in the time of Abraham.

Commentaries

Various experts and theologians offer diverse perspectives on this verse. Some focus on its Christological implications, suggesting that Melchizedek’s priesthood foreshadows Christ’s. Others view the passage as demonstrating the continuation and fulfillment of the Old Testament in Christ. The lack of genealogy for Melchizedek is often discussed, pointing to the eternal nature of Christ’s priesthood relative to the temporal priesthood of the Levites.