And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest,

HEBREWS 7:15KJV
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Hebrews 7:15 (KJV)

What does Hebrews 7:15 mean?

Hebrews 7:15 says it is even more obvious that another priest has appeared, one who is like Melchisedec. The verse points out that this new priest is not following the traditional line but comes in a unique way, resembling Melchisedec rather than the usual priests.

The writer of Hebrews is explaining to Jewish Christians that Jesus’ priesthood is different from the Levitical priests descended from Aaron. The verse stresses that Jesus’ role as priest is clear and stands out because it follows the pattern of Melchisedec, a mysterious Old Testament figure, rather than the established priestly system. This sets up the argument that Jesus’ priesthood is special and not bound by old rules.

The Greek behind Hebrews 7:15

  • ὁμοιότης (homoiotēs, “similitude”): This word means “likeness” or “resemblance.” The verse highlights that the new priest (Jesus) is not just another priest but one who shares a unique similarity with Melchisedec, emphasizing a different kind of priesthood.
  • ἕτερος (heteros, “another”): This word means “another of a different kind.” The verse is not just talking about a replacement priest, but one who is fundamentally different from the previous priests, reinforcing the idea that Jesus’ priesthood is unique.

Why Hebrews 7:15 matters

  • Hebrews 7:15 clarifies that Jesus’ priesthood is not a minor variation but a completely new and different order, which helps readers understand why the old priestly system does not apply to him.
  • The verse connects Jesus directly to Melchisedec, a figure who appears suddenly in Genesis and is described as both king and priest, suggesting a broader and deeper priestly role than the Levitical tradition.
  • This verse helps set up the argument in Hebrews that Jesus’ priesthood is permanent and superior, preparing the reader for the following verses that explain why this matters for faith and worship.

Where else these words appear

“similitude” Greek G3665 · used in 2 verses

  • Hebrews 4:15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

“more” Greek G4054 · used in 4 verses

  • Mark 7:36 And he charged them that they should tell no man: but the more he charged them, so much the more a great deal they published it;
  • 1 Corinthians 15:10 But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.
  • Hebrews 6:17 Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath:

“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 7:11 If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood,(for under it the people received the law,) what further need was there that another priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron?

“priest” Greek G2409 · used in 30 verses

  • Matthew 8:4 And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man; but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.
  • Luke 17:14 And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.
  • Hebrews 7:17 For he testifieth, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.