Μελχισεδέκ (Melchisedek)

Melchisedek

Melchizedek

G3198 · Greek · New Testament · 9 verses

Language: Koine Greek
Testament: New Testament
Occurrences: 9 verses
Root: —

Word Overview

The name Melchizedek, appearing nine times in the New Testament, translates the Hebrew מַלְכִּי־צֶדֶק, meaning "king of righteousness." He is introduced in Genesis as both king of Salem and priest of God Most High, a unique figure who blesses Abraham and receives tithes from him. This dual role of royal and religious authority sets him apart in the biblical narrative.

In the New Testament, Melchizedek serves primarily as a theological typology for Jesus Christ. The Epistle to the Hebrews draws extensively on this connection, arguing that Jesus belongs to a priesthood not based on Levitical descent but on the order of Melchizedek (Hebrews 5:6, 10; 7:1-17). This comparison highlights a superior, eternal priesthood that transcends the old covenant laws.

The significance of his name and role underscores the universality of Christ’s ministry. By linking Jesus to a priest-king from before the Law of Moses, the New Testament presents a salvation history that reaches back beyond Israel’s specific tribal structures. Melchizedek thus becomes a bridge, showing how Christ fulfills ancient patterns of kingship and priesthood in a new, enduring way.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The name Melchizedek means 'king of righteousness' and appears nine times in the New Testament, mostly in Hebrews. This figure from Genesis serves as a powerful picture of Jesus Christ. Unlike the Levitical priests who served under the old law, Jesus is described as a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek. This shows that His ministry goes beyond tribal lines or ancient rituals to touch every part of human life.

When we read about Melchizedek meeting Abraham and blessing him, it reminds us that God’s plan for salvation existed long before the Law of Moses. Jesus does not just follow rules; He embodies righteousness and peace as King of Salem. This connection helps us see that our hope rests on a priesthood that is eternal and unchanging.

Knowing that Jesus serves in this unique order brings deep comfort. It means His work is complete and secure, not dependent on human lineage or temporary systems. We can trust in a Savior who bridges the gap between heaven and earth with lasting authority.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 9 verses where it appears, by frequency.

of Melchizedek.3×
of Melchizedek3×
of Melchizedek;1×
Melchizedek.1×
Melchizedek,1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

Μελχισέδεκ3×
Μελχισέδεκ.¶2×
Μελχισέδεκ.2×
Μελχισέδεκ,1×
Μελχισεδέκ·1×

Key Verses

Hebrews 7:1
For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of God Most High, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him,

This verse introduces Melchizedek's dual role as king and priest, establishing the pattern that Hebrews uses to describe Jesus.
Hebrews 5:6
As he says also in another place, “You are a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek.”

The author quotes Psalm 110 to show that God himself designated Jesus to this superior, eternal priesthood.
Hebrews 7:11
Now if perfection was through the Levitical priesthood (for under it the people have received the law), what further need was there for another priest to arise after the order of Melchizedek, and not be called after the order of Aaron?

This rhetorical question highlights why a new priest was needed if the old Levitical system could not bring true perfection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Melchizedek mean?

The name translates to 'king of righteousness.' In Genesis, he is introduced as both the king of Salem and a priest of God Most High. This unique combination of royal and religious authority makes him a special figure in biblical history.

Why is Melchizedek important for understanding Jesus?

The book of Hebrews uses Melchizedek to show that Jesus’ priesthood is superior to the Levitical system. Because Melchizedek existed before the Law of Moses, Jesus serves in an eternal order that transcends tribal lineage and old covenant restrictions.

How many times does Melchizedek appear in the New Testament?

His name appears nine times in the New Testament. Most occurrences are in the book of Hebrews, where he is used as a theological type to explain the nature and permanence of Christ’s high priesthood.

Every Occurrence (9 verses across 1 books)

Hebrews 9 verses

Hebrews 5:6

As he says also in another place, “You are a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek.”

Hebrews 5:10

named by God a high priest after the order of Melchizedek.

Hebrews 6:20

where as a forerunner Jesus entered for us, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.

Hebrews 7:1

For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of God Most High, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings…

Hebrews 7:10

for he was yet in the body of his father when Melchizedek met him.

Hebrews 7:11

Now if perfection was through the Levitical priesthood (for under it the people have received the law), what further…

Hebrews 7:15

This is yet more abundantly evident, if after the likeness of Melchizedek there arises another priest,

Hebrews 7:17

for it is testified, “You are a priest forever, according to the order of Melchizedek.”

Hebrews 7:21

(for they indeed have been made priests without an oath), but he with an oath by him that says of him, “The Lord swore…