What is the Priestly Order of Melchizedek?
According to the writer of Hebrews (7:13-17), Jesus is considered a priest in the order of Melchizedek because, like Melchizedek, Jesus was not a descendant of Aaron, and thus would not qualify for the Jewish priesthood under the Law of Moses.
What is the meaning of the word 'Melchizedek?'
Melchizedek is an old Canaanite name meaning “My King is [the God] Sedek” or “My King is Righteousness” (the meaning of the similar Hebrew cognate). Salem, of which he is said to be king, is very probably Jerusalem. He is the king of Salem and priest of El Elyon ("God most high") mentioned in the 14th chapter of the Book of Genesis. He brings out bread and wine and blesses Abram.
According to the writer of Hebrews (7:13-17), Jesus is considered a priest in the order of Melchizedek because, like Melchizedek, Jesus was not a descendant of Aaron, and thus would not qualify for the Jewish priesthood under the Law of Moses.
What is the meaning of the word 'Melchizedek?'
Melchizedek is an old Canaanite name meaning “My King is [the God] Sedek” or “My King is Righteousness” (the meaning of the similar Hebrew cognate). Salem, of which he is said to be king, is very probably Jerusalem. He is the king of Salem and priest of El Elyon ("God most high") mentioned in the 14th chapter of the Book of Genesis. He brings out bread and wine and blesses Abram.
