Hebrews 5:6

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

As {G2531} he saith {G3004} also {G2532} in {G1722} another {G2087} place, Thou {G4771} art a priest {G2409} for {G1519} ever {G165} after {G2596} the order {G5010} of Melchisedec {G3198}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Also, as he says in another place,

“You are a cohen forever,
to be compared with Malki-Tzedek.”

Berean Standard Bible

And in another passage God says: “You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.”

American Standard Version

as he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever After the order of Melchizedek.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 5:6 is a pivotal verse that firmly establishes Jesus Christ's unique and eternal priesthood, not according to the Levitical order, but "after the order of Melchisedec." This declaration, drawn directly from Old Testament prophecy in [Psalm 110:4](/psalm/110-4 "Psalm 110:4 - The Lord's Oath to the Messiah"), underscores the divine appointment and enduring nature of Christ's high priestly office, which is superior to and supersedes the temporary Aaronic priesthood, providing the foundation for His perpetual intercession and the new covenant.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Hebrews 5:6 is nestled within the author's detailed exposition of Jesus Christ as the ultimate High Priest. The preceding verses (Hebrews 5:1-4) describe the qualifications of a human high priest: chosen by God, able to empathize with human weaknesses, and appointed to offer sacrifices. The author then transitions in [Hebrews 5:5](/hebrews/5-5 "Hebrews 5:5 - Christ Did Not Glorify Himself") to assert that Christ did not glorify Himself to become High Priest but was appointed by God, citing [Psalm 2:7](/psalm/2-7 "Psalm 2:7 - God's Declaration of His Son"). Hebrews 5:6 then provides a second, crucial Old Testament witness from [Psalm 110:4](/psalm/110-4 "Psalm 110:4 - The Messiah's Priesthood"), solidifying Christ's divine appointment and introducing the unique Melchisedec order, which will be extensively developed in [Hebrews 7](/hebrews/7 "Hebrews 7 - The Superior Priesthood of Christ").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The original audience of the book of Hebrews was Jewish Christians who were likely facing persecution and temptation to revert to Judaism, with its familiar rituals, temple worship, and Levitical priesthood. For them, the concept of a high priest was central to their religious identity and access to God. The Aaronic priesthood, established under the Mosaic Law, was hereditary, temporary, and required repeated sacrifices. Introducing a priesthood "after the order of Melchisedec" would have been both surprising and challenging, as Melchisedec predated the Law and the Aaronic system, and his priesthood was not based on lineage. This concept required a profound re-evaluation of their understanding of priesthood, sacrifice, and the very nature of the Messiah's ministry, highlighting its superiority and permanence compared to the old covenant.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Hebrews. Firstly, it establishes **Christ's Eternal Priesthood**, emphasizing that His priestly office is permanent and unending, unlike the temporary Levitical priests who died and had to be replaced (as explored further in [Hebrews 7:23-24](/hebrews/7-23-24 "Hebrews 7:23-24 - The Permanence of Christ's Priesthood")). Secondly, it introduces the critical theme of **Priesthood after the Order of Melchisedec**, presenting a superior and pre-Mosaic model for Christ's ministry. Melchisedec, as described in [Genesis 14:18-20](/genesis/14-18-20 "Genesis 14:18-20 - Melchisedec Blesses Abraham"), was both a king and a priest, foreshadowing Christ's dual role as King and High Priest. Finally, the opening phrase "As he saith also in another [place]" highlights the theme of **Divine Appointment and Prophetic Fulfillment**, asserting that Christ's priesthood is not self-proclaimed but divinely ordained and prophesied in the Old Testament, lending immense authority and legitimacy to His role as the mediator of the new covenant, as discussed in [Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - Christ, Mediator of a Better Covenant").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **priest (Greek, _hiereús'_):** (G2409) Derived from ἱερός (hieros), meaning "sacred" or "holy." A priest is one who is consecrated to sacred offices, particularly for offering sacrifices and mediating between God and humanity. In the context of Hebrews, it refers to the one who represents humanity before God, offering atonement and intercession. The term here is applied to Jesus, indicating His divine appointment to this sacred role.
* **ever (Greek, _aiṓn'_):** (G165) Properly, "an age"; by extension, "perpetuity." This word signifies an unending duration, an eternity. When used with "for" (eis, G1519), "for ever" (εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα) emphatically conveys an eternal, perpetual, or unending state. In Hebrews 5:6, it highlights the permanent nature of Christ's priesthood, contrasting sharply with the mortal and temporary Levitical priesthood.
* **order (Greek, _táxis'_):** (G5010) From τάσσω (tassō), meaning "to arrange" or "to appoint." This term denotes a regular arrangement, fixed succession, or official dignity. It refers to a specific class, rank, or manner. Here, "after the order of Melchisedec" indicates that Christ's priesthood belongs to the same type, pattern, or category as Melchisedec's, rather than being a continuation of the Aaronic lineage. It implies a qualitative difference and a unique, divinely established arrangement.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"As he saith also in another [place]":** This introductory phrase immediately signals that the author is drawing upon Old Testament scripture to support his argument. The "he" refers to God, indicating divine pronouncement and authority. The "another [place]" refers specifically to [Psalm 110:4](/psalm/110-4 "Psalm 110:4 - The Lord's Oath to the Messiah"), a messianic psalm widely understood by Jewish readers to refer to the coming Messiah. This establishes Christ's priesthood as divinely ordained and prophetically foretold, not a human invention or a temporary arrangement.
* **"Thou [art] a priest for ever":** This is a direct quotation from [Psalm 110:4](/psalm/110-4 "Psalm 110:4 - The Lord's Oath to the Messiah"), addressed by God to the Messiah. The declaration "Thou art a priest" confirms the Messiah's priestly role, which was unexpected for a king from the tribe of Judah. The crucial phrase "for ever" emphasizes the eternal and unending nature of this priesthood. Unlike the Levitical priests whose service ended with death, Christ's priesthood is perpetual, ensuring His continuous intercession and the lasting efficacy of His sacrifice.
* **"after the order of Melchisedec.":** This final clause specifies the unique nature of Christ's eternal priesthood. It's not "after the order of Aaron" or "Levi," but "after the order of Melchisedec." Melchisedec, introduced in [Genesis 14:18-20](/genesis/14-18-20 "Genesis 14:18-20 - Melchisedec Blesses Abraham"), was a king of Salem (meaning "peace") and a priest of God Most High, who blessed Abraham. He had no recorded genealogy, beginning, or end of life, making him a fitting **type** of Christ, whose priesthood is not based on human lineage or temporal limitations but on the power of an indestructible life ([Hebrews 7:16](/hebrews/7-16 "Hebrews 7:16 - Christ's Indestructible Life")). This "order" signifies a superior, pre-Mosaic, and divinely appointed priesthood that combines both royal and priestly functions, unlike the Levitical system.

#### Literary Devices
The author of Hebrews masterfully employs several literary devices in this verse. Foremost is **Quotation**, directly citing [Psalm 110:4](/psalm/110-4 "Psalm 110:4 - The Lord's Oath to the Messiah") to provide irrefutable Old Testament prophetic proof for Christ's priestly office. This demonstrates the continuity of God's redemptive plan and grounds the New Covenant in ancient promises. Closely related is **Typology**, where Melchisedec serves as a type (a prefiguring person or event) of Christ. Melchisedec's unique status as both king and priest, and his mysterious, seemingly eternal presence in the biblical narrative, perfectly foreshadow Christ's eternal, royal priesthood. Finally, there is implicit **Contrast**. By explicitly stating "after the order of Melchisedec," the author implicitly contrasts Christ's priesthood with the familiar, yet inferior and temporary, Aaronic/Levitical priesthood, setting the stage for the extensive comparison in [Hebrews 7](/hebrews/7 "Hebrews 7 - The Superior Priesthood of Christ").

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 5:6 is a theological cornerstone, asserting that Christ's priesthood is divinely appointed, eternal, and superior to the Levitical system. This profound truth means that believers have a High Priest who is not subject to death, whose sacrifice is eternally effective, and who perpetually intercedes on their behalf. This provides unwavering assurance of access to God, the permanence of salvation, and the superiority of the new covenant established through Christ's perfect ministry. His eternal priesthood guarantees that His work of atonement and mediation is complete and ongoing, securing our standing before a holy God.

* [Psalm 110:4](/psalm/110-4 "Psalm 110:4 - The Lord's Oath to the Messiah")
* [Hebrews 7:17](/hebrews/7-17 "Hebrews 7:17 - Christ's Eternal Priesthood")
* [Hebrews 7:24-25](/hebrews/7-24-25 "Hebrews 7:24-25 - Christ's Permanent Priesthood and Intercession")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The truth that Jesus is "a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec" offers an unparalleled source of comfort, confidence, and security for every believer. It means that our access to God is not dependent on fallible human priests or repeated sacrifices, but on the unchangeable, perfect, and eternal ministry of Jesus Christ. We have a High Priest who understands our weaknesses, having suffered Himself, and who ever lives to intercede for us before the Father. This should empower us to "draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need" ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace")). Our salvation is not tenuous but eternally secured by His perpetual priestly work. This encourages us to live lives of worship, gratitude, and bold faith, knowing that we are perfectly represented by our High Priest.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding Christ's eternal priesthood "after the order of Melchisedec" deepen your appreciation for His unique role in your salvation?**
* **In what ways does the permanence of Christ's priesthood provide you with greater confidence in your relationship with God compared to a temporary, human-led system?**
* **How should the truth of Christ's ongoing intercession for you impact your prayer life and your sense of security in times of struggle or sin?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of Jesus being a priest "after the order of Melchisedec" rather than the Levitical order?**

Answer: The significance is profound and multifaceted. The Levitical priesthood was temporary, hereditary, and required repeated animal sacrifices for sin, as detailed in the Mosaic Law. Its priests were mortal and imperfect. In contrast, Melchisedec was a mysterious figure in [Genesis 14](/genesis/14 "Genesis 14 - Abraham Rescues Lot and Meets Melchisedec") who was both a king and a priest of God Most High, predating the Law and the Aaronic priesthood. He had no recorded genealogy, beginning, or end, making his priesthood seem eternal. Jesus's priesthood "after the order of Melchisedec" signifies its superiority, eternality, and independence from human lineage or the Law. It means His priesthood is based on His indestructible life ([Hebrews 7:16](/hebrews/7-16 "Hebrews 7:16 - Christ's Indestructible Life")), combines royal and priestly functions (He is King and Priest), and His one sacrifice is eternally sufficient, eliminating the need for any further offerings. This new order establishes a better covenant ([Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - Christ, Mediator of a Better Covenant")) and provides permanent access to God.

**Why does the author of Hebrews emphasize "for ever" when describing Christ's priesthood?**

Answer: The emphasis on "for ever" (Greek: _eis ton aiōna_) is crucial for highlighting the permanence and unending nature of Jesus's high priestly ministry, directly contrasting it with the limitations of the Levitical priesthood. Under the Old Covenant, Levitical priests were mortal; their service was limited by their lifespan, requiring a succession of priests ([Hebrews 7:23](/hebrews/7-23 "Hebrews 7:23 - Many Priests Because of Death")). This meant their intercession and the efficacy of their sacrifices were inherently temporary and incomplete. By declaring Jesus a priest "for ever," the author asserts that Christ's priesthood is eternal, unchangeable, and therefore perfectly sufficient. His sacrifice never needs to be repeated ([Hebrews 7:27](/hebrews/7-27 "Hebrews 7:27 - Christ's One Sacrifice")), and He perpetually lives to intercede for believers ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Eternal Intercession")). This provides ultimate security and confidence for those who draw near to God through Him.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hebrews 5:6 finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who embodies the perfect, eternal High Priesthood foreshadowed by Melchisedec. While Melchisedec was a type, Jesus is the anti-type, the divine reality. He is not merely a priest but the "great high priest who has passed through the heavens" ([Hebrews 4:14](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Our Great High Priest")), divinely appointed by God Himself, as prophesied in [Psalm 110:4](/psalm/110-4 "Psalm 110:4 - The Lord's Oath to the Messiah")). Unlike the Levitical priests, whose service was limited by death and sin, Christ's priesthood is "for ever," rooted in His resurrected, indestructible life ([Hebrews 7:16](/hebrews/7-16 "Hebrews 7:16 - Christ's Indestructible Life")). He perfectly combines the roles of King and Priest, being the "King of Righteousness" and "King of Peace" ([Hebrews 7:2](/hebrews/7-2 "Hebrews 7:2 - Melchisedec, King of Righteousness and Peace")), just as Melchisedec's name and title suggested. Through His once-for-all sacrifice on the cross, Christ has secured eternal redemption, and now, as our High Priest, He continually lives to intercede for us before the Father ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Eternal Intercession")). His fulfillment of the Melchisedec order ensures that believers have permanent, confident access to God through a perfect mediator, establishing a new and superior covenant that brings full and final salvation ([Hebrews 9:11-12](/hebrews/9-11-12 "Hebrews 9:11-12 - Christ, the High Priest of the New Covenant")).

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

Psalms 110:4

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

Hebrews 7:17

For he testifieth, Thou [art] a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.

Hebrews 7:21

(For those priests were made without an oath; but this with an oath by him that said unto him, The Lord sware and will not repent, Thou [art] a 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.

Hebrews 5:10

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

Hebrews 6:20

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

Genesis 14:18

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