Genesis 14:18

KJV

And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Melchizedek {H4442} king {H4428} of Salem {H8004} brought forth {H3318} bread {H3899} and wine {H3196}: and he was the priest {H3548} of the most high {H5945} God {H410}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Malki-Tzedek king of Shalem brought out bread and wine. He was cohen of El 'Elyon [God Most High],

Berean Standard Bible

Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine—since he was priest of God Most High—

American Standard Version

And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was priest of God Most High.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 14:18 introduces the enigmatic figure of Melchizedek, king of Salem and priest of the Most High God, who unexpectedly appears to Abraham after his military triumph. This pivotal encounter features Melchizedek bringing forth bread and wine and bestowing a blessing upon Abraham, establishing a unique pre-Levitical priesthood that profoundly foreshadows the superior and eternal priesthood of Jesus Christ.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Genesis 14:18 immediately follows Abraham's (then Abram's) decisive victory over the confederate kings who had captured Lot. Having pursued and defeated Chedorlaomer and his allies, Abraham is returning from battle when he is met by two kings in the Valley of Shaveh (also known as the King's Valley): the king of Sodom and Melchizedek. The sudden, almost parenthetical, appearance of Melchizedek in the narrative is striking. He is not introduced with a genealogy or backstory, but simply emerges as a pre-existing authority. This abrupt entrance serves to highlight his unique significance, setting the stage for Abraham's tithe and Melchizedek's blessing, which are central to the theological implications of the passage. The narrative then quickly shifts back to Abraham's interaction with the king of Sodom, underscoring Melchizedek's distinct, transient, yet profound role.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Genesis 14 are set in the early second millennium BC, a period characterized by city-states and regional conflicts. Kings often led their armies, and treaties or tributes were common after battles. Salem, generally identified with ancient Jerusalem (meaning "peace"), would have been a significant regional center. The concept of a "priest" was widespread in the ancient Near East, with various deities having their own cultic servants. However, a king also serving as a priest, especially of a monotheistic "Most High God" (*El Elyon*), was highly unusual and significant. This suggests a recognition of a supreme deity even among non-Israelite peoples, or at least a unique divine appointment for Melchizedek that transcends typical regional religious structures. The act of bringing bread and wine could signify a treaty meal, a gesture of hospitality, or a priestly offering, all common practices in the ancient world.
* **Key Themes:** Genesis 14:18 contributes to several overarching themes within Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. It underscores God's **sovereignty and provision** for Abraham, demonstrating that Abraham's victory was not merely by his own strength but by divine empowerment, as Melchizedek's blessing explicitly states God's role in delivering Abraham's enemies (cf. [Genesis 14:19-20](/genesis/14-19-20 "Melchizedek's Blessing and Abraham's Tithe")). The verse also introduces the theme of **divine election and blessing**, as Abraham, the recipient of God's covenant promises, is blessed by this mysterious priest-king. Crucially, it introduces the concept of a **pre-Levitical priesthood**, hinting at a universal divine order that predates the Mosaic Law and the Aaronic lineage. This foreshadows a priesthood that is not bound by tribal or national distinctions, a theme extensively developed in the New Testament concerning the priesthood of Christ (cf. [Hebrews 7](/hebrews/7 "The Priesthood of Melchizedek and Christ")). Finally, the mention of "bread and wine" subtly introduces elements of **communion and covenant**, which hold profound typological significance for future divine interactions.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **wine (Hebrew, _yayin'_):** From an unused root meaning "to effervesce," *yayin* refers to fermented grape juice, often associated with celebration, banqueting, or, conversely, intoxication. In this context, its presentation alongside bread signifies an act of hospitality, sustenance, and possibly a covenantal meal, hinting at deeper symbolic meaning beyond mere physical refreshment.
* **priest (Hebrew, _kôhên'_):** An active participle meaning "one officiating," *kôhên* denotes a priest—a person authorized to perform sacred rites, offer sacrifices, and mediate between God and humanity. Melchizedek's designation as a *kôhên* of the Most High God highlights his legitimate spiritual authority and unique divine appointment, distinct from any known lineage or institutional structure.
* **most high (Hebrew, _ʻelyôwn'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to ascend" or "elevate," *ʻelyôwn* signifies an elevation, denoting loftiness or supremacy. As a title, it refers to the Supreme Being, *El Elyon*, emphasizing God's transcendence, ultimate authority, and exalted position above all other gods, powers, and earthly rulers. This title underscores the universal scope of Melchizedek's God and the supreme source of Abraham's blessing.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine":** This clause introduces Melchizedek, identifying him by his name and his royal office as "king of Salem." The act of "bringing forth bread and wine" is a gesture of hospitality and provision. In the ancient world, sharing food and drink often symbolized peace, friendship, and covenantal agreement. For a king to personally bring these items to a returning warrior signifies respect and an acknowledgment of Abraham's victory, possibly as a blessing from his deity.
* **"and he [was] the priest of the most high God":** This crucial phrase reveals Melchizedek's second, equally significant, office: that of a priest. His deity is explicitly identified as "the most high God" (*El Elyon*), a title emphasizing God's supreme sovereignty and transcendence. This dual role of king and priest is highly unusual in the biblical narrative, particularly outside of the later established Levitical priesthood and Davidic monarchy. It immediately sets Melchizedek apart as a unique and divinely appointed figure, whose authority stems directly from the ultimate divine power.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Juxtaposition** is evident in the immediate contrast between the worldly king of Sodom (mentioned in the preceding verse) and the divinely appointed Melchizedek, highlighting the spiritual significance of the latter. **Symbolism** is rich in the "bread and wine," elements that transcend their literal meaning to prefigure spiritual sustenance, peace, and communion, most notably in the New Covenant. The very name **Melchizedek** (King of Righteousness) and his city **Salem** (Peace) function as **epithets** or **allusions**, imbuing the character and setting with profound theological meaning that points to a future, greater King and Priest. Finally, the abrupt and unexplained appearance of Melchizedek creates a sense of **mystery** and **divine intervention**, emphasizing his extraordinary nature and the sovereign hand of God at work.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Melchizedek's appearance in Genesis 14:18 provides a foundational theological insight into God's universal reach and the nature of true spiritual authority. His dual role as king and priest, combined with his identification as a priest of *El Elyon* (God Most High), suggests a divine order that transcends the later, specific Israelite institutions. This encounter highlights that God's plan of salvation and blessing is not confined to a single lineage or nation but operates through various channels, even before the formal establishment of the covenant with Israel. Melchizedek's blessing of Abraham and Abraham's subsequent tithe acknowledge a superior spiritual authority, underscoring the principle of recognizing and honoring God's appointed representatives and His ultimate sovereignty over all things, including military victories and material wealth.

* [Psalm 110:4](/psalms/110-4 "Psalm 110:4 - A Priest Forever After the Order of Melchizedek")
* [Hebrews 7:1-3](/hebrews/7-1-3 "Hebrews 7:1-3 - Melchizedek as a Type of Christ")
* [Hebrews 7:11-17](/hebrews/7-11-17 "Hebrews 7:11-17 - The Superiority of Christ's Priesthood")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The brief yet profound encounter with Melchizedek in Genesis 14:18 invites us to consider the mysterious ways in which God works throughout history, often through unexpected figures and outside conventional systems. This encounter challenges us to look beyond established norms and human expectations to discern God's sovereign hand. Just as Abraham recognized Melchizedek's unique authority and received spiritual sustenance and blessing, we are called to acknowledge the ultimate source of all true provision, peace, and righteousness as coming from the Most High God. This passage encourages us to cultivate a posture of humility and receptivity to divine truth, wherever and however it is revealed. It reminds us that God's redemptive plan is expansive and transcends human limitations, always pointing towards His ultimate King and Priest.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Melchizedek's dual role as king and priest challenge or expand your understanding of leadership and spiritual authority?**
* **In what ways might God be working in unexpected places or through unconventional people in your own life or in the world today?**
* **What does the act of bringing bread and wine signify for you in terms of spiritual nourishment and communion with God?**

### FAQ

**Who was Melchizedek and why is his appearance so brief yet significant?**

Answer: Melchizedek was the king of Salem (generally identified as ancient Jerusalem) and a priest of *El Elyon*, the Most High God. His appearance is remarkably brief, confined to just a few verses in [Genesis 14](/genesis/14 "Genesis 14 - Abraham Rescues Lot and Meets Melchizedek"), yet profoundly significant because he serves as a unique "type" or foreshadowing of Jesus Christ. His significance lies in his dual role as king and priest, his pre-Levitical priesthood that predates the Mosaic Law, and his act of blessing Abraham, which establishes his spiritual superiority and points to a greater, eternal priesthood. The New Testament book of Hebrews extensively unpacks his typological importance.

**What is the significance of Melchizedek bringing bread and wine?**

Answer: The act of Melchizedek bringing bread and wine to Abraham signifies more than simple hospitality. Theologically, it is highly significant as it prefigures the elements of the New Covenant meal (the Lord's Supper or Eucharist) instituted by Jesus Christ. In this Old Testament context, the bread and wine represent sustenance, peace, and communion, offered by a priest-king who embodies righteousness and peace. It's a priestly act of provision and blessing, setting a powerful precedent for future divine-human interactions and pointing to the ultimate spiritual nourishment provided by Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Melchizedek stands as one of the most compelling "types" of Christ in the Old Testament, his brief appearance rich with prophetic significance. As the "King of Righteousness" (from his name) and "King of Peace" (from his city, Salem), Melchizedek perfectly prefigures Jesus Christ, who is indeed the [King of Righteousness and the Prince of Peace](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - Jesus as the Prince of Peace"). The New Testament book of Hebrews dedicates an entire chapter to explaining how Jesus' priesthood is "after the order of Melchizedek" ([Hebrews 7:11](/hebrews/7-11 "Hebrews 7:11 - Christ's Superior Priesthood")), not the Levitical order. This Melchizedekian priesthood is superior because it is eternal, without beginning or end, and combines both kingship and priesthood in one person, unlike the separate offices in Israel. Just as Melchizedek blessed Abraham and received tithes, Christ, our eternal High Priest and King, offers us ultimate blessing, spiritual sustenance (symbolized by the [bread and wine of the New Covenant](/luke/22-19-20 "Luke 22:19-20 - Institution of the Lord's Supper")), and lasting peace through His once-for-all sacrifice. To Him, all believers owe their ultimate allegiance and worship, for He is the [mediator of a better covenant](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - Christ, Mediator of a Better Covenant") and the [author of eternal salvation](/hebrews/5-9 "Hebrews 5:9 - Christ, Author of Eternal Salvation").

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Hebrews 6:20

Whither the forerunner is for us entered, [even] Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.

Hebrews 7:3

Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually.

Psalms 110:4

The LORD hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou [art] a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.

Hebrews 5:6

As he saith also in another [place], Thou [art] a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.

Hebrews 5:10

¶ Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec.

Psalms 76:2

In Salem also is his tabernacle, and his dwelling place in Zion.

Acts 16:17

The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation.