Bible Strands
Hebrews 7:1
This Melchizedek was king of Salem and priest of God Most High. He met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him,
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — The author addresses readers to introduce Melchizedek immediately after noting Abraham’s return from battle. This placement establishes a historical figure whose priesthood predates the later Levitical system.
The words — Οὗτος (Houtos) translates literally as "this," pointing directly to the named individual. βασιλεὺς (basileus) means "king," establishing his political authority alongside his religious office.
The thread — The encounter is first recorded in Genesis 14:18, which identifies the same figure as king of Salem and priest of God Most High. The exact title "God Most High" also appears in Psalm 57:2.
Why it lands — The text requires the reader to recognize Melchizedek’s dual role as ruler and priest during Abraham’s military campaign. It demands acknowledgment of a priesthood that operates independently of later Israelite lineage.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
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;
Cross-references
- Genesis 14:18 Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine—since he was priest of God Most High—
- Psalms 57:2 I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills His purpose for me.
- Micah 6:6 With what shall I come before the LORD when I bow before the God on high? Should I come to Him with burnt offerings, with year-old calves?
- Hebrews 6:20 where Jesus our forerunner has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.
- Genesis 16:14 Therefore the well was called Beer-lahai-roi. It is located between Kadesh and Bered.
- Psalms 76:2 His tent is in Salem, His dwelling place in Zion.
- Psalms 78:35 And they remembered that God was their Rock, that God Most High was their Redeemer.
- Daniel 5:18 As for you, O king, the Most High God gave your father Nebuchadnezzar sovereignty and greatness, glory and honor.
- Mark 5:7 And he shouted in a loud voice, “What do You want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg You before God not to torture me!”
- Isaiah 41:2 Who has aroused one from the east and called him to his feet in righteousness? He hands nations over to him and subdues kings before him. He turns them to dust with his sword, to windblown chaff with his bow.