For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him;

HEBREWS 7:1KJV
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Hebrews 7:1 (KJV)

What does Hebrews 7:1 mean?

Hebrews 7:1 introduces Melchisedec as both king of Salem and priest of the most high God, describing how he met Abraham after Abraham’s victory over several kings and gave him a blessing. The verse sets up Melchisedec as a significant figure by linking him to Abraham and highlighting his unique roles.

The writer of Hebrews is explaining to Jewish Christians how Melchisedec’s story from Genesis is important for understanding Jesus’ priesthood. By mentioning Melchisedec’s meeting with Abraham and his dual titles, the verse prepares the reader to see why Melchisedec is a model for a different kind of priesthood—one not based on family lineage but on a special appointment by God.

The Greek behind Hebrews 7:1

  • Μελχισεδέκ (Melchisedek, transliterated “Melchisedec”): This name means “king of righteousness” and is left untranslated to highlight the historical figure’s special status.
  • βασιλεὺς (basileus, “king”): The word emphasizes Melchisedec’s authority, not just as a religious leader but as a ruler of a city, Salem.
  • ἱερεὺς (hiereus, “priest”): This term shows Melchisedec’s religious role, which is unusual because he is both king and priest—something rare in Israel’s history.
  • εὐλόγησεν (eulogēsen, “blessed”): The Greek word for “blessed” points to Melchisedec’s spiritual authority, as blessing Abraham shows a position of honor and significance.

Why Hebrews 7:1 matters

  • Hebrews 7:1 clears up that Melchisedec was not just a passing character but someone with both royal and priestly authority, which is key for understanding the argument about Jesus’ priesthood.
  • The verse emphasizes that Melchisedec’s blessing of Abraham is important, since Abraham was the ancestor of Israel, and being blessed by Melchisedec shows his superior status.
  • This introduction connects the story of Melchisedec to the larger discussion in Hebrews about a priesthood that is different from the traditional Levitical line, helping readers see why Jesus’ priesthood is unique.

Where else these words appear

“Salem” Greek G4532 · used in 2 verses

  • Hebrews 7:2 To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace;

“met” Greek G4876 · used in 6 verses

  • Luke 9:37 And it came to pass, that on the next day, when they were come down from the hill, much people met him.
  • Luke 22:10 And he said unto them, Behold, when ye are entered into the city, there shall a man meet you, bearing a pitcher of water; follow him into the house where he entereth in.
  • Acts 20:22 And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:

“Melchisedec” Greek G3198 · used in 9 verses

  • Hebrews 5:6 As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.
  • Hebrews 6:20 Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.
  • Hebrews 7:15 And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest,

“high” Greek G5310 · used in 13 verses

  • Matthew 21:9 And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest.
  • Luke 1:35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.
  • Luke 8:28 When he saw Jesus, he cried out, and fell down before him, and with a loud voice said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God most high? I beseech thee, torment me not.