The Meaning of Hebrews 7:1 Explained

Hebrews 7:1

KJV: 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;

YLT: For this Melchisedek, king of Salem, priest of God Most High, who did meet Abraham turning back from the smiting of the kings, and did bless him,

Darby: For this Melchisedec, King of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from smiting the kings, and blessed him;

ASV: For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of God Most High, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him,

KJV Reverse Interlinear

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; 

What does Hebrews 7:1 Mean?

Study Notes

God
Most high God. Genesis 14:18 .

Context Summary

Hebrews 7:1-10 - A Priesthood Superior To Aaron' S
Melchizedek was probably a literal king and priest in Salem. The blue smoke of his sacrifices rose morning and evening on the hill. Amid the turbulent lawlessness of those wild days, his realm was peace. Like him, Jesus meets us when flushed with success or wearied with some great effort, and therefore peculiarly liable to temptation. Notice the order! It is invariable! First righteousness, then peace, Zechariah 9:9.
The silences of Scripture are significant. In the case of this ancient priesthood no mention is made of parenthood. This was a matter of comparative indifference. So with our Lord. It is true that He did not come of the priestly family of Aaron, but this is quite unimportant. The one thing for us to notice is that Abraham paid tithes to Melchizedek, thus confessing him to be the greater. Levi was, so to speak, included in his grandfather's act, so that the Hebrew priesthood, which sprang from Levi, was confessedly inferior to Melchizedek's. If, then, Melchizedek is a type of Christ, we are taught that Christ's priesthood is evidently and eternally superior to all other priesthoods whatsoever. [source]

Chapter Summary: Hebrews 7

1  Christ Jesus is a priest after the order of Melchizedek;
11  and so far more excellent than the priests of Aaron's order

Greek Commentary for Hebrews 7:1

This Melchizedek [ουτος ο Μελχισεδεκ]
The one already mentioned several times with whose priesthood that of Christ is compared and which is older and of a higher type than that of Aaron. See Genesis 14:18-20; Psalm 110:1-7 for the only account of Melchizedek in the Old Testament. It is a daring thing to put Melchizedek above Aaron, but the author does it. Moffatt calls Hebrews 7:1-3 “a little sermon” on Hebrews 6:20. It is “for ever” Old word for cutting He is called “priest” and note του υπσιστου — tou hupsistou applied to God as the Canaanites, Phoenicians, Hebrews did. It is used also of Zeus and the Maccabean priest-kings. The demons apply it to God (Mark 5:7; Luke 8:28). [source]
For this Melchisedec, etc. []
See Genesis 14:18-20; Psalm 110:1-7. [source]

Reverse Greek Commentary Search for Hebrews 7:1

Luke 8:6 Sprung up [φυὲν]
Lit., having sprung up. Rev., better, grew. Sprung up is Matthew's ὲξανέτειλεν . Only here and Hebrews 7:15, where it is a quotation from the Septuagint. See on Matthew 13:7. [source]
Luke 9:37 They were come down [κατελτοντων αυτων]
Genitive absolute of second aorist active participle of κατερχομαι — katerchomai a common enough verb, but in the N.T. only in Luke‘s writings save James 3:15.Met him (συνηντησεν αυτωι — sunēntēsen autōi). First aorist active of συνανταω — sunantaō common compound verb, to meet with, only in Luke‘s writings in the N.T. save Hebrews 7:1. With associative instrumental case αυτωι — autōi f0). [source]
Luke 9:37 Met him [συνηντησεν αυτωι]
First aorist active of συνανταω — sunantaō common compound verb, to meet with, only in Luke‘s writings in the N.T. save Hebrews 7:1. With associative instrumental case αυτωι — autōi f0). [source]
Acts 26:23 How that the Christ must suffer [ει πατητος ο Χριστος]
Literally, “if the Messiah is subject to suffering.” Ει — Ei can here mean “whether” as in Hebrews 7:15. This use of a verbal in τος — ̇tos for capability or possibility occurs in the N.T. alone in πατητος — pathētos (Robertson, Grammar, p. 157). This word occurs in Plutarch in this sense. It is like the Latin patibilis and is from ει πρωτος εχ αναστασεως νεκρων — paschō Here alone in N.T. Paul is speaking from the Jewish point of view. Most rabbis had not rightly understood Isaiah 53:1-12. When the Baptist called Jesus “the Lamb of God” (John 1:29) it was a startling idea. It is not then “must suffer” here, but “can suffer.” The Cross of Christ was a stumbling-block to the rabbis. [source]
1 Corinthians 3:1 But as unto carnal [αλλ ως σαρκινοις]
Latin carneus. “As men o‘flesh,” Braid Scots; “as worldlings,” Moffatt. This form in ινος — ̇inos like λιτινος — lithinos in 2 Corinthians 3:3 means the material of flesh, “not on tablets of stone, but on fleshen tablets on hearts.” So in Hebrews 7:16. But in Romans 7:14 Paul says, “I am fleshen It is not culpable to a babe in Christ It is one of the tragedies of the minister‘s life that he has to keep on speaking to the church members “as unto babes in Christ” (ως νηπιοις εν Χριστωι — hōs nēpiois en Christōi), who actually glory in their long babyhood whereas they ought to be teachers of the gospel instead of belonging to the cradle roll. Paul‘s goal was for all the babes to become adults (Colossians 1:28). [source]
Galatians 4:9 Weak and beggarly elements [ἀσθενῆ καὶ πτωχὰ στοιχεῖα]
For elements see on Galatians 4:3. For πτωχὰ beggarlysee on Matthew 5:3. The two adjectives express the utter impotence of these “elements” to do and to bestow what was done and given by God in sending his Son into the world. Comp. Romans 8:3; Hebrews 7:18. [source]
Galatians 1:6 Removed [μετατίθεσθε]
A.V. misses the sense of the middle voice, removing or transferring yourselves, and also the force of the continuous present, are removing or going over, indicating an apostasy not consummated but in progress. The verb is used in Class. of altering a treaty, changing an opinion, desertion from an army. For other applications see Acts 7:16; Hebrews 7:12; Hebrews 11:5. Comp. lxx, Deuteronomy 27:17; Proverbs 23:10; Isaiah 29:17. Lightfoot renders are turning renegades. [source]
1 Thessalonians 1:3 Work - labor - patience [ἔπργου - κόπου - ὑπομονῆς]
Ἔργον workmay mean either the act, the simple transaction, or the process of dealing with anything, or the result of the dealing, - as a book or a picture is called a work. Κόπος laborfrom κόπτειν tostrike or hew; hence, laborious, painful exertion. Ὑπομονὴ patiencepatient endurance and faithful persistence in toil and suffering. See on 2 Peter 1:6; see on James 5:7. The genitives, of faith, love, hope, mark the generating principles of the work and labor and patience, which set their stamp upon each; thus, work which springs from faith, and is characteristic of faith. The phrase patience of hope is found only here; but see Romans 5:4; Romans 8:25; Romans 15:4; 1 Corinthians 8:7; Hebrews 7:11, Hebrews 7:12. ὑπομονὴ in lxx, see 1 Chronicles 29:15; Job 14:19; Psalm 9:18; Psalm 38:7; Jeremiah href="/desk/?q=jer+4:8&sr=1">Jeremiah 4:8. We have here the great triad of Christian graces, corresponding to 1 Corinthians 8:1-13. Hope is prominent throughout the two Epistles. The triad appears, 1 Thessalonians 5:8; Galatians 5:5, Galatians 5:6; 1 Corinthians 8:13; Ephesians 4:2-5; Colossians 1:4, Colossians 1:5; Hebrews 10:22-24; 1 Peter 1:21-22. Comp. 1 Thessalonians 2:9; 1 Thessalonians 5:8; 2 Thessalonians 3:5, 2 Thessalonians 3:8; 1 Corinthians 15:10, 1 Corinthians 15:58; 2 Corinthians 11:27; Revelation 2:2. [source]
1 Timothy 5:24 Open beforehand [προδηλοί]
A.V. wrong in giving πρὸ a temporal force, whereas it merely strengthens δηλοί evidentmanifest. The meaning is openly manifested to all eyes. In N.T. only here, 1 Timothy 5:25, and Hebrews 7:14. In lxx, see 2 Maccabees 3:17; 14:39. [source]
Titus 3:9 Shun [περιιστασο]
Present middle imperative of περιιστημι — periistēmi intransitive, step around, stand aside (2 Timothy 2:16). Common in this sense in the literary Koiné. Unprofitable (ανωπελεις — anōpheleis). Old compound adjective (α — a privative and οπελος — ophelos), in N.T. only here and Hebrews 7:18. [source]
Titus 3:9 Unprofitable [ανωπελεις]
Old compound adjective (α — a privative and οπελος — ophelos), in N.T. only here and Hebrews 7:18. [source]
Titus 3:9 Unprofitable [ἀνωφελεῖς]
Only here and Hebrews 7:18. [source]
Hebrews 9:9 Make him that did the service perfect [τελειῶσαι τὸν λατρεύοντα]
Rend. as Rev. “make the worshipper perfect.” See Hebrews 7:11. [source]
Hebrews 9:26 To put away sin [εἰς ἀθίτησιν τῆς ἁμαρτίας]
Lit. for the putting away of sin. For ἀθέτησις see on Hebrews 7:18. Note the singular number, sin. The sacrifice of Christ dealt with sin as a principle: the Levitical sacrifices with individual transgressions. [source]
Hebrews 9:14 Through the eternal spirit [διὰ πνεύματος αἰωνίου]
For the rend. an. Διὰ through= by virtue of. Not the Holy Spirit, who is never so designated, but Christ's own human spirit: the higher element of Christ's being in his human life, which was charged with the eternal principle of the divine life. Comp. Romans 1:4; 1 Corinthians 15:45; 1 Peter 3:18; Hebrews 7:16. This is the key to the doctrine of Christ's sacrifice. The significance and value of his atonement lie in the personal quality and motive of Christ himself which are back of the sacrificial act. The offering was the offering of Christ's deepest self - his inmost personality. Therein consists the attraction of the cross, not to the shedding of blood, but to Christ himself. This is Christ's own declaration, John 12:32. “I will draw all men unto me.” Therein consists its potency for men: not in Christ's satisfaction of justice by suffering a legal penalty, but in that the cross is the supreme expression of a divine spirit of love, truth, mercy, brotherhood, faith, ministry, unselfishness, holiness, - a spirit which goes out to men with divine intensity of purpose and yearning to draw them into its own sphere, and to make them partakers of its own eternal quality. This was a fact before the foundation of the world, is a fact today, and will be a fact so long as any life remains unreconciled to God. Atonement is eternal in virtue of the eternal spirit of Christ through which he offered himself to God. [source]
Hebrews 8:7  []
d The statement that a better covenant was enacted upon better promises is justified by the very existence of that second covenant. “If that first covenant had been faultless, there would no place have been sought for a second.” The argument is like that in Hebrews 7:11(see note). Notice the imperfect tense ἐξητείτο , lit. would have been being sought. A search would not have been going on. This implies a sense of dissatisfaction while the old covenant was still in force, and a looking about for something better. This hint is now expanded. It is to be shown that the Levitical system answered to a covenant which was recognized as imperfect and transitory by an O.T. prophet, since he spoke of a divine purpose to establish a new covenant. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
[source]

Hebrews 8:6 Was established upon better promises [ἐπὶ κρείττοσιν ἐπαγγελίαις νενομοθέτηται]
For established rend. enacted. Νομοθετεῖν toenact a law, only here and Hebrews 7:11. A few times in lxxclass="greek normal"> Νομοθεσία enactingonly Romans 9:4 νομοθέτης lawgiveronly James 4:12. The better covenant was enacted as truly as was the law. See Hebrews 8:10. The new covenant was a new law - the perfect law, the law of liberty, James 1:25. [source]
Hebrews 8:4  []
d Rend. “Now if he were on earth he would not be a priest at all, seeing that there are those who offer the gifts according to the law.” Christ could not be a priest on earth, because there is an order of priests already established by law; and as Christ was not of the tribe of Levi (Hebrews 7:13, Hebrews 7:14) he could have nothing in common with them. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
[source]

Hebrews 7:25 Come unto God [προσερχομένους τῷ θεῷ]
The verb oP., and in this sense only in Hebrews and 1 Peter 2:4. See a peculiar usage in 1 Timothy 6:3. Comp. ἐγγίζειν todraw near, James 4:8; Hebrews 7:19. [source]
Hebrews 7:18 There is verily a disannulling of the commandment going before [ἀθέτησις μὲν γὰρ γίνεται προαγούσης ἐντολῆς]
Verily is superfluous. Ἀθέτησις only here and Hebrews 9:26; a very few times in lxx: The fundamental idea is the doing away of something established ( θετόν ). The verb ἀθετεῖν tomake void, do away with, is common in N.T. and in lxx, where it represents fifteen different Hebrew words, meaning to deal falsely, to make merchandise of, to abhor, to transgress, to rebel, to break an oath, etc. The noun, in a technical, legal sense, is found in a number of papyri from 98 to 271 a.d., meaning the making void of a document. It appears in the formula εἰς ἀθίτησιν καὶ ἀκύρωσιν forannulling and canceling. Προαγούσης ἐντολῆς rend. of a foregoing commandment. The expression is indefinite, applying to any commandment which might be superseded, although the commandment in Hebrews 7:16is probably in the writer's mind. Foregoing, not emphasizing mere precedence in time, but rather the preliminary character of the commandment as destined to be done away by a later ordinance. With foregoing comp. 1 Timothy 1:18; 1 Timothy 5:24. [source]
Hebrews 7:15 Evident [κατάδηλον]
N.T.oThoroughly evident. Not referring to that which is declared to be πρόδηλον evidentin Hebrews 7:14, viz., that Christ sprang out of Judah, but to the general proposition - the unsatisfactory character of the Levitical priesthood. [source]
Hebrews 7:11 Should rise [ἀνίστασθαι]
In Hebrews only here and Hebrews 7:15, both times in connection with priest. [source]
Hebrews 7:11 Priesthood [ἱερωσύνης]
Only in Hebrews. See Hebrews 7:12, Hebrews 7:14. It expresses the abstract notion of the priest's office; while ἱερατία Hebrews 7:5, expresses the priestly service. [source]
Hebrews 5:9 And being made perfect [καὶ τελεωθεὶς]
Comp. Hebrews 2:10. The fundamental idea in τελειοῦν is the bringing of a person or thing to the goal fixed by God. Comp. Hebrews 7:11, Hebrews 7:19; Hebrews 9:9; Hebrews 10:1, Hebrews 10:14; Hebrews 11:40; Hebrews 12:23. Here of Christ's having reached the end which was contemplated in his divinely-appointed discipline for the priesthood. The consummation was attained in his death, Philemon 2:8; his obedience extended even unto death. [source]
Hebrews 12:27 The removing [τὴν μετάθεσιν]
See on Hebrews 7:12. For the thought comp. 1 John 2:17; 1 Corinthians 7:31. [source]
Hebrews 11:5 Was translated [μετετέθη]
The verb used of Enoch's translation, lxx, Genesis href="/desk/?q=ge+5:24&sr=1">Genesis 5:24. In Acts 7:16of the transporting of the remains of Jacob and his sons to Sychem. In Galatians 1:6, of the sudden change in the religious attitude of the Galatians. In Hebrews 7:12, of the change in the priesthood. [source]
Hebrews 13:12 That he might sanctify the people [ἵνα ἁγιάσῃ τὸν λαόν]
Ἁγιάζειν tosanctify had a peculiar significance to Jews. It meant to set them apart as holy. Hence, the Israelites were called ἅγιοι , as separated from other nations and consecrated to God. Our writer extends the application of the word to Christians. For Christ's work he claims the same efficacy which the Jew claimed for the special call of God to Israel, and for the operation of the Jewish sacrificial system. The office of his atoning work is to sanctify; to make for himself a holy nation ( ἔθνος ἅγιον ), a people “prepared for the Lord” (Luke 1:17); a true Israel of God. Ὁ λαός thepeople, or λαός mypeople, occurs constantly in O.T. as a designation of Israel, and also in N.T. See, in this epistle, Hebrews 5:3; Hebrews 7:5, Hebrews 7:11, Hebrews 7:27; Hebrews 9:7, Hebrews 9:19. The N.T. extends the title to all who, under the new dispensation, occupy the position of Israel. See 1 Peter 2:10; Matthew 1:21; Luke 2:10; Hebrews 4:9; Hebrews 8:10; Hebrews 10:30; Hebrews 11:25. [source]
Hebrews 12:2 The author and finisher of our faith [τὸν τῆς πίστεως ἀρχηγὸν καὶ τελειωτὴν]
The A.V. is misleading, and narrows the scope of the passage. For author, rend. leader or captain, and see on Hebrews 2:10. For finisher, rend. perfecter. For our faith, rend. faith or the faith. Not our Christian faith, but faith absolutely, as exhibited in the whole range of believers from Abel to Christ. Christ cannot be called the author or originator of faith, since the faith here treated existed and worked before Christ. Christ is the leader or captain of faith, in that he is the perfecter of faith. In himself he furnished the perfect development, the supreme example of faith, and in virtue of this he is the leader of the whole believing host in all time. Notice the recurrence of the favorite idea of perfecting. Comp. Hebrews 2:10; Hebrews 5:9; Hebrews 6:1; Hebrews 7:11, Hebrews 7:19, Hebrews 7:28; Hebrews 9:9; Hebrews 10:1, Hebrews 10:14; Hebrews 11:40. Τελειωτής perfecterN.T.oolxx, oClass. [source]
Hebrews 11:2 The elders obtained a good report [ἐμαρτυρηθήσαν οἱ πρεσβύτεροι]
The elders for the more common the fathers: the saints of the O.T. dispensation, many of whose names are recorded in this chapter. Εμαρτυρηθήσαν , lit. were borne witness to. God bore witness to them in the victory of their faith over all obstacles, and their characters and deeds as men of faith were recorded in Scripture. For this use of ματυρεῖν in the passive, see Acts 6:3; Acts 10:22; Acts 16:12; Romans 3:21; Hebrews 7:8, Hebrews 7:17. Notice that the statement in this verse does not begin the list of examples, which commences with Hebrews 11:4, but is closely attached to the definition in Hebrews 11:1as a comprehensive justification of it. [source]
Hebrews 10:28 He that despised [ἀφετήσας τις]
Lit. one that despised; any transgressor. The verb only here in Hebrews. The kindred noun ἀθέτησις only in Hebrews. See Hebrews 7:18; Hebrews 9:26. [source]
Hebrews 10:23 Profession of our faith [τὴν ὁμολογίαν τῆς ἐλπίδος]
Rend. “confession of our hope.” Faith does not appear among Ms. readings. It is an innovation of the translators. Hope is the rendering of Tyndale, Coverdale, the Great Bible, the Geneva, the Bishops', and Rheims. On confession see on 2 Corinthians 9:13, and comp. notes on 1 Timothy 6:12, 1 Timothy 6:13. The phrase confession of hope N.T.oThey are steadfastly to confess their hope in God's promise and salvation. Comp. Hebrews 3:6; Hebrews 6:11, Hebrews 6:18; Hebrews 7:19. Hope is here = the object of hope. [source]
Hebrews 10:14 He hath perfected forever [τετελείωκεν εἰς τὸ διηνεκές]
Note the continued emphasis upon the τελείωσις perfection. Comp. Hebrews 7:11, Hebrews 7:19; Hebrews 9:9; Hebrews 10:1; Hebrews 12:2. No more sacrifices are needed. The reign of the Great High Priest is not to be interrupted by the duty of sacrifice. [source]
Hebrews 1:5 To which [τίνι]
Note the author's characteristic use of the question to express denial. Comp. Hebrews 1:14; Hebrews 2:3; Hebrews 3:17; Hebrews 7:11; Hebrews 12:7. First quotation from Psalm 2:7. The Psalm is addressed as a congratulatory ode to a king of Judah, declaring his coming triumph over the surrounding nations, and calling on them to render homage to the God of Israel. The king is called Son of Jahveh, and is said to be “begotten” on the day on which he is publicly recognized as king. Words of the same Psalm are quoted Acts 4:25, and these words Acts 13:33. [source]
Hebrews 1:1 Spake [λαλήσας]
See on Matthew 28:18. Often in the Epistle of the announcement of the divine will by men, as Hebrews 7:14; Hebrews 9:19; by angels, as Hebrews 2:2; by God himself or Christ, as Hebrews 2:3; Hebrews 5:5; Hebrews 12:25. In Paul, almost always of men: once of Christ, 2 Corinthians 13:3; once of the Law, personified, Romans 3:9. [source]
Hebrews 10:28 Hath set at naught [ατετησας]
First aorist active participle of ατετεω — atheteō late compound, very common in lxx, from alpha privative and τιτημι — tithēmi to render null and void, to set aside, only here in Hebrews (see Mark 7:9), but note ατετησις — athetēsis (Hebrews 7:18; Hebrews 9:26). Without mercy See 2 Corinthians 1:3. This was the law (Deuteronomy 17:6) for apostates. On the word of two or three “On the basis of two or three.” For this use of επι — epi with the locative see Hebrews 9:17. [source]
Hebrews 11:5 Was translated [μετετετη]
First aorist passive indicative of μετατιτημι — metatithēmi old verb to transpose, to change as in Hebrews 7:12; Acts 7:16. That he should not see death Here again του — tou with the infinitive usually expresses purpose, but in this case result is the idea as in Matthew 21:23; Romans 1:24; Romans 7:3, etc. (Robertson, Grammar, p. 1002). He was not found Imperfect passive of ευρισκω — heuriskō from Genesis 5:24. Was still not found. Translated First aorist active of same verb as μετετετη — metetethē just before. Translation Substantive from the same verb μετατιτημι — metatithēmi used already in Hebrews 7:12 for change. See also Hebrews 12:27. Our very word “metathesis.” He hath had witness borne him Perfect passive indicative of μαρτυρεω — martureō stands on record still, “he has been testified to.” That he had been well-pleasing unto God Perfect active infinitive of ευαρεστεω — euaresteō late compound from ευαρεστος — euarestos (well-pleasing), in N.T. only in Hebrews 11:5.; Hebrews 13:16. With dative case τεωι — theōi Quoted here from Genesis 5:22, Genesis 5:24. The word is common of a servant pleasing his master. [source]
Hebrews 12:27 And this word [το δε]
He uses the article to point out “ετι απαχ — eti hapax ” which he explains The removing For this word see Hebrews 7:12; Hebrews 11:5. For the transitory nature of the world see 1 Corinthians 7:31; 1 John 2:17. “There is a divine purpose in the cosmic catastrophe” (Moffatt). Made Perfect passive participle of ποιεω — poieō Made by God, but made to pass away. That those things which are not shaken may remain Final clause with μη — mē and the first aorist active subjunctive of μενω — menō The Kingdom of God is not shaken, fearful as some saints are about it. [source]
Hebrews 7:1 This Melchizedek [ουτος ο Μελχισεδεκ]
The one already mentioned several times with whose priesthood that of Christ is compared and which is older and of a higher type than that of Aaron. See Genesis 14:18-20; Psalm 110:1-7 for the only account of Melchizedek in the Old Testament. It is a daring thing to put Melchizedek above Aaron, but the author does it. Moffatt calls Hebrews 7:1-3 “a little sermon” on Hebrews 6:20. It is “for ever” Old word for cutting He is called “priest” and note του υπσιστου — tou hupsistou applied to God as the Canaanites, Phoenicians, Hebrews did. It is used also of Zeus and the Maccabean priest-kings. The demons apply it to God (Mark 5:7; Luke 8:28). [source]
Hebrews 7:2 A tenth [δεκατην]
It was common to offer a tenth of the spoils to the gods. So Abraham recognized Melchizedek as a priest of God. Divided First aorist active of μεριζω — merizō from μερος — meros (portion), to separate into parts. From this point till near the end of Hebrews 7:3 (the Son of God) is a long parenthesis with ουτος — houtos of Hebrews 7:1 as the subject of μενει — menei (abideth) as the Revised Version punctuates it. Philo had made popular the kind of exegesis used here. The author gives in Greek the meaning of the Hebrew words Melchizedek (King of righteousness, cf. Hebrews 1:8) and Salem (peace). [source]
Hebrews 7:12 The priesthood being changed [μετατιτεμενης της ιεροσυνης]
Genitive absolute with present passive participle of μετατιτημι — metatithēmi old word to transfer (Galatians 1:6). A change Old substantive from μετατιτημι — metatithēmi In N.T. only in Heb. (Hebrews 7:12; Hebrews 11:5; Hebrews 12:27). God‘s choice of another kind of priesthood for his Son, left the Levitical line off to one side, forever discounted, passed by “the order of Aaron” (την ταχιν Ααρων — tēn taxin Aarōn). [source]
Hebrews 7:11 Perfection [τελειωσις]
Abstract substantive of τελειοω — teleioō More the act than the quality or state The condition is of the second class, “if there were perfection, etc.” The Levitical priesthood failed to give men “a perfectly adequate relation to God” (Moffatt). Priesthood Old word, in N.T. only here, Hebrews 7:12, Hebrews 7:24. Cf. ιερετια — hieretia in Hebrews 7:5. The adjective Λευειτικη — Leueitikē occurs in Philo. Received the law Perfect passive indicative of νομοτετεω — nomotheteō old compound to enact law No copula expressed, but it would normally be ην — ēn an not just ετερον ιερεα — ēn “What need still would there be?” Another priest (ετερον — heteron hierea). Of a different line (αλλον — heteron), not just one more (ανιστασται — allon). Accusative of general reference with the infinitive ανιστημι — anistasthai (present middle of και ου λεγεσται — anistēmi intransitive). And not to be reckoned (ου — kai ou legesthai). The negative ou belongs rather to the descriptive clause than just to the infinitive. [source]
Hebrews 7:11 Priesthood [ιεροσυνης]
Old word, in N.T. only here, Hebrews 7:12, Hebrews 7:24. Cf. ιερετια — hieretia in Hebrews 7:5. The adjective Λευειτικη — Leueitikē occurs in Philo. Received the law Perfect passive indicative of νομοτετεω — nomotheteō old compound to enact law No copula expressed, but it would normally be ην — ēn an not just ετερον ιερεα — ēn “What need still would there be?” Another priest (ετερον — heteron hierea). Of a different line (αλλον — heteron), not just one more (ανιστασται — allon). Accusative of general reference with the infinitive ανιστημι — anistasthai (present middle of και ου λεγεσται — anistēmi intransitive). And not to be reckoned (ου — kai ou legesthai). The negative ou belongs rather to the descriptive clause than just to the infinitive. [source]
Hebrews 7:15 Yet more abundantly evident [περισσοτερον ετι καταδηλον]
Only N.T. instance of the old compound adjective καταδηλος — katadēlos thoroughly clear with ετι — eti (still) added and the comparative περισσοτερον — perissoteron (more abundantly) piling Ossa on Pelion like Philemon 1:23. Likeness See Hebrews 4:15, only N.T. examples. Cf. the verb in Hebrews 7:3. Ariseth another priest As said in Hebrews 7:11, now assumed in condition of first class. [source]
Hebrews 7:18 A disannulling [ατετησις]
Late word from ατετεω — atheteō (alpha privative and τιτημι — tithēmi), to set aside (Mark 6:26), in N.T. only here and Hebrews 9:26. Common in the papyri in a legal sense of making void. Involved in μετατεσις — metathesis (change in Hebrews 7:12). Foregoing Present active participle of προαγω — proagō to go before (1 Timothy 1:18). Because of its weakness Neuter abstract adjective with article for quality as in Hebrews 7:7 with δια — dia and accusative case for reason. Unprofitableness Old compound (alpha privative and οπελος — ophelos) useless, and neuter singular like αστενες — asthenes In N.T. only here and Titus 3:9. [source]
Hebrews 7:19 Made nothing perfect [ουδεν ετελειωσεν]
Another parenthesis. First aorist active indicative of τελειοω — teleioō See Hebrews 7:11. And yet law is necessary. A bringing in thereupon An old double compound Here only in N.T. Used by Josephus (Ant. XI. 6, 2) for the introduction of a new wife in place of the repudiated one. Of a better hope This better hope (Hebrews 6:18-20) does bring us near to God (εγγιζομεν τωι τεωι — eggizomen tōi theōi) as we come close to God‘s throne through Christ (Hebrews 4:16). [source]
Hebrews 7:22 By so much also [κατα τοσουτο και]
Correlative demonstrative corresponding to κατ οσον — kath' hoson (the relative clause) in Hebrews 7:20. The surety Vulgate sponsor. Old word, here only in the N.T., adjective (one pledged, betrothed), from εγγυη — egguē a pledge, here used as substantive like εγγυητης — egguētēs one who gives a pledge or guarantee. There may be a play on the word εγγιζω — eggizō in Hebrews 7:19. Εγγυαω — Egguaō is to give a pledge, εγγυαλιζω — eggualizō to put a pledge in the hollow of the hand. It is not clear whether the author means that Jesus is God‘s pledge to man, or man‘s to God, or both. He is both in fact, as the Mediator (ο μεσιτης — ho mesitēs Hebrews 8:6) between God and man (Son of God and Son of man). [source]
Hebrews 7:24 Because he abideth [δια το μενειν αυτον]
Same idiom as in Hebrews 7:23, “because of the abiding as to him” (accusative of general reference, αυτον — auton). Unchangeable Predicate adjective in the accusative (feminine of compound adjective like masculine), late double compound verbal adjective in Plutarch and papyri, from alpha privative and παραβαινω — parabainō valid or inviolate. The same idea in Hebrews 7:3. God placed Christ in this priesthood and no one else can step into it. See Hebrews 7:11 for ιερωσυνη — hierōsunē f0). [source]
Hebrews 7:28 After the law [μετα τον νομον]
As shown in Hebrews 7:11-19, and with an oath (Psalm 110:4). Son As in Psalm 2:7; Hebrews 1:2 linked with Psalm 110:4. Perfected Perfect passive participle of τελειοω — teleioō The process (Hebrews 2:10) was now complete. Imperfect and sinful as we are we demand a permanent high priest who is sinless and perfectly equipped by divine appointment and human experience (Hebrews 2:17.; Hebrews 5:1-10) to meet our needs, and with the perfect offering of himself as sacrifice. [source]
Hebrews 8:7 That first covenant [η πρωτη εκεινη]
The word διατηκη — diathēkē (covenant) is not expressed, but clearly meant by the feminine gender πρωτη — prōtē Faultless Old compound adjective for which see Luke 1:6; Philemon 2:15. The condition is second class and assumes that the old covenant was not “blameless,” apparently a serious charge which he hastens to explain. For a second Objective genitive with διατηκης — diathēkēs understood. The conclusion with αν — an and the imperfect passive indicative (εζητειτο — ezēteito) is clearly a second-class condition. See a like argument in Hebrews 7:11. [source]
Hebrews 8:6 But now [νυν δε]
Logical use of νυν — nun as the case now stands, with Jesus as high priest in heaven. Hath he obtained Perfect active indicative of τυγχανω — tugchanō with the genitive, a rare and late form for τετευχεν — teteuchen (also τετευχηκεν — teteuchēken), old verb to hit the mark, to attain. A ministry the more excellent “A more excellent ministry.” For the comparative of διαπορος — diaphoros see Hebrews 1:4. This remark applies to all the five points of superiority over the Levitical priesthood. By how much Instrumental case of the relative οσος — hosos between two comparative adjectives as in Hebrews 1:4. The mediator Late word from μεσος — mesos (amid) and so a middle man (arbitrator). Already in Galatians 3:19. and see 1 Timothy 2:5. See Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 12:24 for further use with διατηκη — diathēkē Of a better covenant Called “new” For νενομοτετηται — diathēkē see Matthew 26:28; Luke 1:72; Galatians 3:17, etc. This idea he will discuss in Hebrews 8:7-13. Hath been enacted (νομοτετεω — nenomothetētai). Perfect passive indicative of επι κρειττοσιν επαγγελιαις — nomotheteō as in Hebrews 7:11 which see. Upon better promises (επι — epi kreittosin epaggeliais). Upon the basis of (κρεισσων — epi). But how “better” if the earlier were also from God? This idea, alluded to in Hebrews 6:12-17, Will be developed in 10:19-12:3 with great passion and power. Thus it is seen that “better” (kreissōn) is the keynote of the Epistle. At every point Christianity is better than Judaism. [source]
Hebrews 8:6 Hath he obtained [τετυχεν]
Perfect active indicative of τυγχανω — tugchanō with the genitive, a rare and late form for τετευχεν — teteuchen (also τετευχηκεν — teteuchēken), old verb to hit the mark, to attain. A ministry the more excellent “A more excellent ministry.” For the comparative of διαπορος — diaphoros see Hebrews 1:4. This remark applies to all the five points of superiority over the Levitical priesthood. By how much Instrumental case of the relative οσος — hosos between two comparative adjectives as in Hebrews 1:4. The mediator Late word from μεσος — mesos (amid) and so a middle man (arbitrator). Already in Galatians 3:19. and see 1 Timothy 2:5. See Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 12:24 for further use with διατηκη — diathēkē Of a better covenant Called “new” For νενομοτετηται — diathēkē see Matthew 26:28; Luke 1:72; Galatians 3:17, etc. This idea he will discuss in Hebrews 8:7-13. Hath been enacted (νομοτετεω — nenomothetētai). Perfect passive indicative of επι κρειττοσιν επαγγελιαις — nomotheteō as in Hebrews 7:11 which see. Upon better promises (επι — epi kreittosin epaggeliais). Upon the basis of (κρεισσων — epi). But how “better” if the earlier were also from God? This idea, alluded to in Hebrews 6:12-17, Will be developed in 10:19-12:3 with great passion and power. Thus it is seen that “better” (kreissōn) is the keynote of the Epistle. At every point Christianity is better than Judaism. [source]
Hebrews 8:6 A ministry the more excellent [διαπορωτερας λειτουργιας]
“A more excellent ministry.” For the comparative of διαπορος — diaphoros see Hebrews 1:4. This remark applies to all the five points of superiority over the Levitical priesthood. By how much Instrumental case of the relative οσος — hosos between two comparative adjectives as in Hebrews 1:4. The mediator Late word from μεσος — mesos (amid) and so a middle man (arbitrator). Already in Galatians 3:19. and see 1 Timothy 2:5. See Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 12:24 for further use with διατηκη — diathēkē Of a better covenant Called “new” For νενομοτετηται — diathēkē see Matthew 26:28; Luke 1:72; Galatians 3:17, etc. This idea he will discuss in Hebrews 8:7-13. Hath been enacted (νομοτετεω — nenomothetētai). Perfect passive indicative of επι κρειττοσιν επαγγελιαις — nomotheteō as in Hebrews 7:11 which see. Upon better promises (επι — epi kreittosin epaggeliais). Upon the basis of (κρεισσων — epi). But how “better” if the earlier were also from God? This idea, alluded to in Hebrews 6:12-17, Will be developed in 10:19-12:3 with great passion and power. Thus it is seen that “better” (kreissōn) is the keynote of the Epistle. At every point Christianity is better than Judaism. [source]
Hebrews 8:6 By how much [οσωι]
Instrumental case of the relative οσος — hosos between two comparative adjectives as in Hebrews 1:4. The mediator Late word from μεσος — mesos (amid) and so a middle man (arbitrator). Already in Galatians 3:19. and see 1 Timothy 2:5. See Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 12:24 for further use with διατηκη — diathēkē Of a better covenant Called “new” For νενομοτετηται — diathēkē see Matthew 26:28; Luke 1:72; Galatians 3:17, etc. This idea he will discuss in Hebrews 8:7-13. Hath been enacted (νομοτετεω — nenomothetētai). Perfect passive indicative of επι κρειττοσιν επαγγελιαις — nomotheteō as in Hebrews 7:11 which see. Upon better promises (επι — epi kreittosin epaggeliais). Upon the basis of (κρεισσων — epi). But how “better” if the earlier were also from God? This idea, alluded to in Hebrews 6:12-17, Will be developed in 10:19-12:3 with great passion and power. Thus it is seen that “better” (kreissōn) is the keynote of the Epistle. At every point Christianity is better than Judaism. [source]
Hebrews 8:6 The mediator [μεσιτης]
Late word from μεσος — mesos (amid) and so a middle man (arbitrator). Already in Galatians 3:19. and see 1 Timothy 2:5. See Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 12:24 for further use with διατηκη — diathēkē Of a better covenant Called “new” For νενομοτετηται — diathēkē see Matthew 26:28; Luke 1:72; Galatians 3:17, etc. This idea he will discuss in Hebrews 8:7-13. Hath been enacted (νομοτετεω — nenomothetētai). Perfect passive indicative of επι κρειττοσιν επαγγελιαις — nomotheteō as in Hebrews 7:11 which see. Upon better promises (επι — epi kreittosin epaggeliais). Upon the basis of (κρεισσων — epi). But how “better” if the earlier were also from God? This idea, alluded to in Hebrews 6:12-17, Will be developed in 10:19-12:3 with great passion and power. Thus it is seen that “better” (kreissōn) is the keynote of the Epistle. At every point Christianity is better than Judaism. [source]
Hebrews 8:6 Of a better covenant [κρειττονος διατηκης]
Called “new” For νενομοτετηται — diathēkē see Matthew 26:28; Luke 1:72; Galatians 3:17, etc. This idea he will discuss in Hebrews 8:7-13. Hath been enacted (νομοτετεω — nenomothetētai). Perfect passive indicative of επι κρειττοσιν επαγγελιαις — nomotheteō as in Hebrews 7:11 which see. Upon better promises (επι — epi kreittosin epaggeliais). Upon the basis of (κρεισσων — epi). But how “better” if the earlier were also from God? This idea, alluded to in Hebrews 6:12-17, Will be developed in 10:19-12:3 with great passion and power. Thus it is seen that “better” (kreissōn) is the keynote of the Epistle. At every point Christianity is better than Judaism. [source]
Hebrews 9:9 Which [ητις]
“Which very thing,” the first tent Only in the Synoptic Gospels in the N.T. and Hebrews 9:9; Hebrews 11:19. See note on Hebrews 10:1-44 for the word (from paraballō to place alongside). Here like παραβαλλω — tupos (type or shadow of “the heavenly reality,” Moffatt). For the time now present “For the present crisis “ Perfect active articular (repeated article) participle of παραβολη — enistēmi (intransitive), the age in which they lived, not the past, not the future. See 1 Corinthians 3:22; Romans 8:38 for contrast between σκηνης — enestōta and κατα συνειδησιν — mellonta This age of crisis, foreshadowed by the old tabernacle, pointed on to the richer fulfilment still to come. According to which Here the relative refers to τελειωσαι τον λατρευοντα — parabolē just mentioned, not to skēnēs See Hebrews 5:1; Hebrews 8:3. As touching the conscience For suneidēsis see 1 Corinthians 8:10; 1 Corinthians 10:17; Romans 2:15. This was the real failure of animal sacrifice (1713467919_67). Make the worshipper perfect First aorist active infinitive (Hebrews 2:10). At best it was only ritual or ceremonial purification (Hebrews 7:11), that called for endless repetition (Hebrews 10:1-4). [source]
Hebrews 9:10 Only with meats and drinks and divers washings [μονον επι βρωμασιν και πομασιν και διαποροις βαπτισμοις]
The parenthesis of the Revised Version here is unnecessary. The use of επι — epi here with the locative case is regular, “in the matter of” (Luke 12:52; John 12:16; Acts 21:24). What ritual value these Levitical sacrifices had was confined to minute regulations about diet and ceremonial cleansing (clean and unclean). For “divers” Carnal ordinances But the correct text is undoubtedly simply δικαιωματα σαρκος — dikaiōmata sarkos (nominative case), in apposition with δωρα τε και τυσιαι — dōra te kai thusiai (gifts and sacrifices). See Hebrews 9:1 for δικαιωματα — dikaiōmata Imposed Present middle or passive participle of επικειμαι — epikeimai old verb to lie upon (be laid upon). Cf. 1 Corinthians 9:16. Until a time of reformation Definite statement of the temporary nature of the Levitical system already stated in Hebrews 7:10-17; Hebrews 8:13 and argued clearly by Paul in Galatians 3:15-22. Διορτωσις — Diorthōsis is a late word, here alone in N.T. (from διορτοω — diorthoō to set right or straight), used by Hippocrates for making straight misshapen limbs like ανορτοω — anorthoō in Hebrews 12:12. Here for reformation like διορτωμα — diorthōma (reform) in Acts 24:2. Christianity itself is the great Reformation of the current Judaism (Pharisaism) and the spiritual Judaism foreshadowed by the old Abrahamic promise (see Gal 3; Rom 9). [source]
Hebrews 9:26 Else must he often have suffered [επει εδει αυτον πολλακις πατειν]
A common elliptical use of επει — epei after which one must supply “if that were true” or “in that case,” a protasis of a condition of the second class assumed to be untrue. The conclusion with εδει — edei is without αν — an (verbs of necessity, obligation, etc.). See Robertson, Grammar, p. 963. The conclusion with αν — an occurs in Hebrews 10:2. See also 1 Corinthians 5:10. “Since, if that were true, it would be necessary for him to suffer often.” Since the foundation of the world See Hebrews 4:3 for this phrase. The one sacrifice of Christ is of absolute and final value (1 Peter 1:19.; Revelation 13:8). At the end Consummation or completion as in Matthew 13:39. which see. Hath he been manifested Perfect passive indicative of πανεροω — phaneroō permanent state. See “the primitive hymn or confession of faith” (Moffatt) in 1 Timothy 3:16 and also 1 Peter 1:20. Jesus came once for all (Hebrews 1:2). To put away sin See Hebrews 7:18 for the word ατετησις — athetēsis “The sacrifice of Christ dealt with sin as a principle: the Levitical sacrifices with individual transgressions” (Vincent). [source]
James 4:12 The lawgiver [ο νομοτετης]
Old compound (from νομοσ τιτημι — nomosνομοτετεω — tithēmi), only here in N.T. In Psalm 9:20. Cf. σωσαι — nomotheteō in Hebrews 7:11; Hebrews 8:6.To save (σωζω — sōsai first aorist active infinitive of και απολεσαι — sōzō) and to destroy (απολλυμι — kai apolesai first aorist active infinitive of συ δε τις ει — apollumi to destroy). Cf. the picture of God‘s power in Matthew 10:28, a common idea in the O.T. (Deuteronomy 32:39; 1 Samuel 2:16; 2 Kings 5:7).But who art thou? Proleptic and emphatic position of τον πλησιον — su (thou) in this rhetorical question as in Romans 9:20; Romans 14:4.Thy neighbour (ton plēsion). “The neighbour” as in James 2:8. [source]

What do the individual words in Hebrews 7:1 mean?

This for - Melchizedek king of Salem priest - of God Most High having met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings and having blessed him
Οὗτος γὰρ Μελχισέδεκ βασιλεὺς Σαλήμ ἱερεὺς τοῦ Θεοῦ Ὑψίστου συναντήσας Ἀβραὰμ ὑποστρέφοντι ἀπὸ τῆς κοπῆς τῶν βασιλέων καὶ εὐλογήσας αὐτόν

Οὗτος  This 
Parse: Demonstrative Pronoun, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root: οὗτος  
Sense: this.
  - 
Parse: Article, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root:  
Sense: this, that, these, etc.
Μελχισέδεκ  Melchizedek 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root: Μελχισέδεκ  
Sense: the king of Salem and priest of the most high God, who lived in the days of Abraham.
βασιλεὺς  king 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root: βασιλεύς  
Sense: leader of the people, prince, commander, lord of the land, king.
Σαλήμ  of  Salem 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Feminine Singular
Root: Σαλήμ  
Sense: the place where Melchizedek was king and thought to be the ancient name of Jerusalem.
ἱερεὺς  priest 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root: ἱερεύς  
Sense: a priest, one who offers sacrifices and in general in busied with sacred rites.
τοῦ  - 
Parse: Article, Genitive Masculine Singular
Root:  
Sense: this, that, these, etc.
Θεοῦ  of  God 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Masculine Singular
Root: θεός  
Sense: a god or goddess, a general name of deities or divinities.
Ὑψίστου  Most  High 
Parse: Adjective, Genitive Masculine Singular, Superlative
Root: ὕψιστος  
Sense: highest, most high.
συναντήσας  having  met 
Parse: Verb, Aorist Participle Active, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root: συναντάω  
Sense: to meet with.
Ἀβραὰμ  Abraham 
Parse: Noun, Dative Masculine Singular
Root: Ἀβραάμ  
Sense: the son of Terah and the founder of the Jewish nation.
ὑποστρέφοντι  returning 
Parse: Verb, Present Participle Active, Dative Masculine Singular
Root: ὑποστρέφω  
Sense: to turn back.
κοπῆς  slaughter 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Feminine Singular
Root: κοπή  
Sense: the act of cutting, a cut.
τῶν  of  the 
Parse: Article, Genitive Masculine Plural
Root:  
Sense: this, that, these, etc.
βασιλέων  kings 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Masculine Plural
Root: βασιλεύς  
Sense: leader of the people, prince, commander, lord of the land, king.
εὐλογήσας  having  blessed 
Parse: Verb, Aorist Participle Active, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root: εὐλογέω 
Sense: to praise, celebrate with praises.