Hebrews 7:6

“But he whose descent is not counted from them received tithes of Abraham, and blessed him that had the promises.”

Context: The book of Hebrews is a letter written to Jewish Christians, emphasizing the superiority of Jesus Christ and His priesthood over the Old Testament Levitical priesthood. The author argues that Jesus is the perfect and eternal High Priest who fulfilled the law and brought a new and better covenant.

Melchizedek: In the preceding verses (Hebrews 7:1-3), the author introduces Melchizedek, an enigmatic figure from the book of Genesis (Genesis 14:17-20). Melchizedek was a priest-king who blessed Abraham and received a tithe from him. He is unique because he predates the Levitical priesthood, yet is described as a priest “after the order of Melchizedek” (Hebrews 7:17).

Comparison with Levi: Hebrews 7 contrasts Melchizedek with the Levitical priesthood. The Levites were descendants of Abraham’s great-grandson, Levi, and they received tithes from the people of Israel. However, Melchizedek, who was not from the lineage of Levi, received tithes from Abraham himself. This shows the superiority of Melchizedek’s priesthood over the Levitical priesthood.

Blessing and Promises: Hebrews 7:6 states that Melchizedek blessed Abraham, who had received the promises from God. In Genesis 12:1-3, God called Abraham, promising to bless him, make him a great nation, and bless all nations through him. Melchizedek’s blessing can be seen as a confirmation and enhancement of the promises already given to Abraham.

Jesus as the Greater Priest: The author of Hebrews uses Melchizedek as a type or foreshadowing of Jesus Christ. Jesus, like Melchizedek, is a priest forever (Hebrews 7:17) and not from the tribe of Levi but from the tribe of Judah (Hebrews 7:14). By drawing this parallel, the author demonstrates that Jesus’ priesthood is superior to the Levitical priesthood.