Bible Strands
Hebrews 7:12
For when the priesthood is changed, the law must be changed as well.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — The author addresses Jewish Christians familiar with Mosaic regulations, explaining the theological consequence of Jesus assuming a Melchizedekian priestly office.
The words — μετατιθεμὲνης (metatithemenēs) literally means “when is being changed,” and ἀνάγκης (anagkēs) denotes “necessity” or compulsion.
The thread — The text explicitly ties priestly succession to legal authority in Hebrews 7:11 and Hebrews 7:13, while Jeremiah 31:31 provides the broader scriptural pattern of a covenant shift accompanying a new priestly arrangement.
Why it lands — The passage requires readers to accept that a change in priestly lineage necessitates a change in governing law, compelling them to evaluate their adherence to the old covenant structure against the stated reality of Christ’s ministry.
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 the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law.
Cross-references
- Jeremiah 31:31 Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah.
- Isaiah 66:21 “And I will select some of them as priests and Levites,” says the LORD.
- Ezekiel 16:61 Then you will remember your ways and be ashamed when you receive your older and younger sisters. I will give them to you as daughters, but not because of My covenant with you.
- Acts 6:13 where they presented false witnesses who said, “This man never stops speaking against this holy place and against the law.