Melchizedek

Definition

During the time when Abram lived, Melchizedek was the king of the city of Salem (later “Jerusalem”)

• Melchizedek’s name means “king of righteousness” and his title “king of Salem” means “king of peace.”
• He was also called a “priest of God Most High.”
• Melchizedek is first mentioned in the Bible when he served Abram bread and wine after Abram rescued his nephew Lot from powerful kings. Abram gave Melchizedek one-tenth of the plunder from his victory.
• In the New Testament, Melchizedek is described as someone who had no father or mother. He was called a priest and king who will reign forever.
• The New Testament also says that Jesus is a priest according to the priestly “order of Melchizedek.” Jesus was not descended from Levi as the Israelite priests were. His priesthood is directly from God, as Melchizedek’s was.
• Based on these descriptions of him in the Bible, Melchizedek was a human priest who was also chosen by God to represent or point forward to Jesus, the eternal king of peace and righteousness and our great high priest.

(Translation suggestions: How to Translate Names)

(See also: Abraham, everlasting, high priest, Jerusalem, Levite, priest, righteous)

Bible References

• Genesis 14:18
• Hebrews 6:20
• Hebrews 7:17
• Psalm 110:4

Word Data

• Strong’s: H4442, G31980