Hebrews 7:5

And verily they that are of the sonnes of Leui, who receiue the office of the Priesthood, haue a commandement to take Tithes of the people according to the Law, that is of their brethren, though they come out of the loines of Abraham: Hebrews 7:5 (KJV)

The book of Hebrews is written to Jewish Christians who were facing persecution and contemplating a return to Judaism. The author seeks to demonstrate the superiority of Christ’s priesthood over the Levitical priesthood.

Sons of Levi: In the Old Testament the tribe of Levi was set apart by God for religious service (Numbers 3:5‑10) and for the priesthood and other religious duties (Exodus 28:1). The Levitical priests, descended from Aaron, served as intermediaries between God and the people of Israel, offering sacrifices and performing various religious rituals.

Commandment to take tithes: Under the Law of Moses the Levites were given the responsibility to collect tithes from the people of Israel. A tithe refers to the giving of a tenth of one’s income or produce (Leviticus 27:30). This tithe was used to support the Levites since they did not receive any land inheritance like the other tribes (Numbers 18:21‑24).

From their brethren: The Levitical priests collected tithes from their fellow Israelites, who were their brethren or fellow descendants of Abraham. This highlights the fact that the Levitical priests and the people of Israel were from the same lineage.

Though they come out of the loins of Abraham: This phrase emphasizes the ancestral connection between the Levites and Abraham. The Levites were descendants of Levi, who was one of the twelve sons of Jacob (also known as Israel). Abraham, the father of the nation, was Jacob’s grandfather. Therefore the Levites could trace their lineage back to Abraham.

The significance of Hebrews 7:5: This verse establishes the authority and legitimacy of the Levitical priesthood. The Jewish Christians to whom the book of Hebrews was addressed respected and honored the Levitical priesthood, considering it central to their religious practices. By acknowledging the Levitical priests’ right to collect tithes from their brethren, the author shows that the Levitical system was established by God and had a purpose within the context of the Old Covenant. However, in subsequent verses the author of Hebrews explains that Christ’s priesthood, according to the order of Melchizedek (Hebrews 7:11‑28), is superior to the Levitical priesthood. Christ’s priesthood is eternal and unchangeable, unlike the Levitical priests who died and needed successors. This argument encourages readers to place their faith in Jesus Christ as the ultimate High Priest who offers a perfect and everlasting sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins.