What does Hebrews 7:14 mean?

For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood. Hebrews 7:14

Explanation

Hebrews 7:14 states, “For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood.” In this verse, the writer of Hebrews is underscoring the fact that Jesus Christ descended from the tribe of Judah, a fact known to his readers and considered evident, or obvious. What the author is highlighting here is a significant point of Jewish law: the tribe of Judah was not the tribe assigned by the Law of Moses to the priesthood. That role was given exclusively to the tribe of Levi. The most profound implication of this is in relation to the legitimacy and nature of Jesus’ priesthood, which the author argues is of a different order—that of Melchizedek, not Aaron (the first high priest of Israel from the tribe of Levi).

Historical Context

The Epistle to the Hebrews was written to a community that was likely familiar with Jewish traditions and the Old Testament. The priesthood, particularly that of the Levitical order, was central to the Jewish faith as it was the vehicle through which the Law was upheld and sacrifices were made for the forgiveness of sins. Priesthood in ancient Israel was hereditary, originating with Aaron of the tribe of Levi, and all subsequent priests were to come from this tribe. The writer of Hebrews introduces a radical concept by identifying Jesus as a priest, not in the Levitical sense, but in the order of Melchizedek, who was a priest and king and predated the Levitical priesthood.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints may emphasize various aspects of this verse. For instance:

• From a traditional Christian perspective, this verse supports the idea that Jesus is the fulfillment of Old Testament promises and prophecies, but in an unexpected way.
• A covenantal theologian might point out that Jesus’ priesthood signifies a new covenant that transcends the old covenant priesthood requirements.
• A dispensationalist may see this verse as one of the Bible segments that distinguish between different economical and time-bound divine arrangements – from the Levitical priesthood to the priestly role of Jesus.

Practical Applications

This verse can be applied in several ways:

• It can encourage believers to embrace the reality that God’s plans often do not fit human expectations or limitations.
• The verses also comfort people with the understanding that Jesus is a high priest who represents a priesthood accessible to all, not just a specific lineage.
• It can serve as a reminder of the importance of not being bound by tradition when God is doing something new.

Cross-References

• Genesis 49:10: “The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto him shall the gathering of the people be.”
• 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.”

Language Study

The Greek word for “evident” in this verse is “prodelos,” which means manifest or clear. It emphasizes the obvious nature of the claim regarding Jesus’ lineage. “Sprang out of Juda” refers to the physical descent or genealogical lineage from the tribe of Judah. Juda (or Judah) is the Greek rendering of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, which was also the name of one of the sons of Jacob.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In cultural and religious comparisons, one might refer to the various ancient civilizations that had their own priesthood systems and rites, such as the priests of Ra in ancient Egypt or the Vestal Virgins of Rome. Like the Hebrew Levitical priesthood, many of these priesthoods had specific lineage or purity requirements. The concept of Jesus breaking away from the traditional lineage-based priesthood is thus radically different from most ancient religions which held strict rules for priestly office.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, discussions might focus on the genetic lineage and how it’s traced through DNA. Although the specifics of Jesus’ DNA are obviously not available, the discussion could center on the importance of genetic markers in defining tribal associations in ancient times, contrasting that with the spiritual and non-genetic priesthood Jesus represents.

Commentaries

Experts and Bible commentators offer various interpretations of this verse:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary notes that Christ did not derive any glory from the priesthood of the Jews which was then passing away, but He had a more excellent ministry.
• John Calvin discusses the significance of the change in the law and the priesthood, arguing that since the priesthood is changed, a change in the law must necessarily follow.
• The Pulpit Commentary reflects on the order of Melchizedek as being one that combines kingly and priestly aspects, which prefigures Christ’s own ministry.

Overall, commentators agree that this verse plays a pivotal role in demonstrating Jesus as the fulfillment of the scriptures in an unexpected manner, serving as a high priest not after the order of Levi, but that of Melchizedek.