What does Hebrews 7:13 mean?

For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar. Hebrews 7:13

Explanation

The verse Hebrews 7:13 reads: “For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar.” In this verse, the author of Hebrews is addressing the identity of Jesus Christ as a priest, though He does not come from the traditional priestly tribe of Levi, to which the Old Testament priesthood belonged. Instead, Jesus is associated with the tribe of Judah, which was not recognized as having a role in temple service or priestly functions. This statement sets the stage for a discussion about the nature and change of the priesthood in light of the coming of Christ.

Historical Context

This verse is set within the broader discussion in the Book of Hebrews about the superiority of Jesus Christ’s priesthood compared to the Aaronic priesthood of the Old Testament. During the time of the New Testament, the traditional Jewish priesthood was hereditary, with the priestly role passed down through the tribe of Levi. The author of Hebrews is making a case to a Jewish audience that Jesus, despite not being from the priestly tribe, is the legitimate high priest in a new order, that of Melchizedek.

Theological Insights

• Priesthood of Melchizedek: Theological commentary often focuses on the significance of Melchizedek’s priesthood as a type or foreshadowing of Christ’s eternal priesthood, which is not bound by traditional lineage.
• The New Covenant: This verse underlines the concept of the New Covenant, in which Christ’s sacrifice replaces the need for the repetitive sacrifices performed by the Levitical priesthood, establishing a more perfect way to reconcile with God.
• The Fulfillment of the Law: Some theologians see Jesus’ priesthood as the fulfillment of the law because He meets the requirements in a deeper spiritual sense, transcending the literal tribe-based system.

Practical Applications

• Embracing Change: This verse encourages believers to be open to new paradigms that fulfill the essence of God’s law, even if they differ from traditional practices.
• Universal Access to God: The verse also supports the idea that access to God is not limited by ethnic or cultural backgrounds, as represented by the changing of the priesthood.
• Focusing on Substance Over Form: In practical terms, this can mean focusing on the substance of one’s faith and relationship with God rather than the external forms or traditions.

Cross-References

• Hebrews 5:5-6: “So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, today have I begotten thee.”
• Hebrews 7:14: “For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood.”
• Psalm 110:4: “The LORD hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.”

Language Study

The key phrase in the original Greek text from this verse is “ἐφ’ ὃν ταῦτα λέγεται φυλῆς ἑτέρας μετέσχηκεν,” where “μετέσχηκεν” is translated to “pertaineth” or “is a member of,” emphasizing a belongingness to another tribe outside of the tribe of Levi.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

This shift in priesthood could be compared with similar shifts in other religious traditions where a reformer comes and introduces a new interpretation or approach to spirituality that initially diverges from established norms. For example, figures like Buddha or Muhammad challenged the prevailing religious structures of their times to introduce new perspectives and practices.

Scientific Perspectives

While this verse does not directly relate to scientific viewpoints, the broader discussion about the historical evidence for Jesus’ life and the origins of Christian traditions can intersect with archaeological and historical sciences. Insights from these fields can enrich the understanding of the context and transmission of biblical texts.

Commentaries

Scholars and theologians have addressed this verse with a focus on the transition from the Levitical to the Melchizedekian priesthood. Matthew Henry’s Commentary underscores that Christ is of a different order and has inaugurated a new and better covenant. The Pulpit Commentary highlights the significance of the change in the law that allows for Jesus’ priesthood. Meanwhile, the Expositor’s Greek Testament discusses the legitimacy of Christ’s priesthood despite its divergence from the tribe of Levi, underlining the authority of Christ’s priesthood on scriptural and theological grounds.