And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of Abraham:
HEBREWS 7:5KJVWhat does Hebrews 7:5 mean?
Hebrews 7:5 explains that the descendants of Levi, who serve as priests, were commanded by the law to collect tithes (a tenth of people’s income or produce) from the rest of the Israelites, even though both groups are descended from Abraham. The verse highlights the special authority given to the Levites among their fellow Israelites.
The writer of Hebrews is speaking to Jewish Christians, reminding them how the Old Testament law set apart the tribe of Levi for priestly duties, including the right to receive tithes from their own relatives. This sets up a comparison with Melchizedek, showing that the Levitical priesthood was unique but still connected to the larger family of Abraham.
The Greek behind Hebrews 7:5
- "Λευί" (Leui, Levi): This word refers to the tribe of Levi, which was set apart for priestly service. The emphasis on Levi helps the reader see the specific group being discussed.
- "δεκατόωσιν" (dekatōsin, tithes): This word means to collect a tenth, or tithe. The Greek here makes clear that the Levites were not just given offerings, but had the legal right to take a specific portion from the people.
- "κατὰ τὸν νόμον" (kata ton nomon, according to the law): This phrase underlines that the Levites’ authority to collect tithes was not a personal privilege but a commandment established by the law of Moses.
- "ἐκ τῶν ὀσφύων Ἀβραάμ" (ek tōn osphyōn Abraam, out of the loins of Abraham): This phrase stresses that both the Levites and the people they collect tithes from share the same ancestor, Abraham, highlighting the family connection and the special role of the Levites.
Why Hebrews 7:5 matters
- Hebrews 7:5 clarifies that the Levites’ right to collect tithes was not based on personal merit but on a commandment given in the law, which helps the reader understand the structure of Old Testament worship.
- The verse prepares the reader for the argument that someone outside the tribe of Levi (like Melchizedek) could have a priesthood even greater than the Levitical one, setting up the main point of the chapter.
- By pointing out that both priests and people come from Abraham, Hebrews 7:5 emphasizes the unity of God’s people and the special arrangement God made for worship and leadership in Israel.