Hebrews 7:12

KJV

For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} the priesthood {G2420} being changed {G3346}, there is made {G1096} of {G1537} necessity {G318} a change {G3331} also {G2532} of the law {G3551}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For if the system of cohanim is transformed, there must of necessity occur a transformation of Torah.

Berean Standard Bible

For when the priesthood is changed, the law must be changed as well.

American Standard Version

For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 7:12 is a foundational statement within the Epistle to the Hebrews, succinctly articulating a profound theological truth: the necessary and divinely ordained transition from the Old Covenant to the New. It declares that the radical change in the priestly order, from the temporary Levitical system to the eternal priesthood of Jesus Christ, inherently and inevitably required a corresponding transformation in the law governing humanity's relationship with God, particularly concerning atonement and access to His presence. This verse underscores the absolute necessity of Christ's superior ministry for true and lasting salvation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Hebrews 7:12 is a climactic declaration within the author's intricate and sustained argument for the superiority of Jesus Christ's priesthood over the Levitical priesthood. Chapters 5 and 6 introduce Christ as a High Priest "after the order of Melchizedek," a mysterious figure from [Genesis 14](/genesis/14 "Genesis 14 - Abraham and Melchizedek"). Chapter 7 meticulously develops this theme, arguing that Melchizedek's unique, non-Levitical priesthood foreshadows Christ's eternal and perfect ministry. The author highlights Melchizedek's superiority by noting that Abraham, the patriarch from whom Levi (and thus the Aaronic priesthood) descended, paid tithes to Melchizedek. The argument culminates in [Hebrews 7:11](/hebrews/7-11 "Hebrews 7:11 - The Imperfection of the Levitical Priesthood"), which explicitly states that if perfection could have been achieved through the Levitical priesthood, there would have been no need for a different kind of priest to arise. This sets the stage for the logical conclusion presented in verse 12, demonstrating that the change in priesthood is not an arbitrary shift but a divine imperative born of the Levitical system's inherent limitations.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Epistle to the Hebrews was written to a community of Jewish Christians, likely facing persecution or social pressure, who were tempted to revert to the familiar practices of Judaism, including the temple rituals and the Levitical sacrificial system. For these believers, the Levitical priesthood and the Mosaic Law were deeply ingrained in their identity and spiritual heritage. The author's argument directly addresses their understanding of salvation and worship, challenging their reliance on an earthly, temporary system. The concept of a changing law or priesthood would have been revolutionary and potentially unsettling to those steeped in the traditions of the Torah. The author's emphasis on "necessity" (anánkē) underscores that this change was not a human innovation but a divine fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, designed to bring about a more perfect and lasting access to God than the Old Covenant could provide.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Hebrews. Primarily, it asserts the **Superiority of Christ's Priesthood**, demonstrating that His Melchizedekian order is not merely an alternative but a divinely appointed replacement for the Levitical system, capable of achieving what the former could not: perfect atonement and sanctification. Secondly, it highlights the **Interconnectedness of Priesthood and Law**, revealing that the Mosaic Law, particularly its sacrificial and ceremonial aspects, was intrinsically tied to the Levitical priesthood. A change in one necessarily entailed a change in the other, leading to the **Inauguration of a New Covenant**. This new covenant, mediated by Christ, operates under a superior law, offering a "better hope" ([Hebrews 7:19](/hebrews/7-19 "Hebrews 7:19 - A Better Hope")) and direct access to God's presence, fulfilling the limitations of the old system and providing a permanent solution to sin, as foreshadowed by the very nature of God's redemptive plan throughout salvation history.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Priesthood (Greek, _hierōsýnē'_):** This term refers to the sacred office and function of a priest. In the context of Hebrews, it specifically denotes the Levitical priesthood established under the Mosaic Law, which involved hereditary succession, temple service, and the offering of animal sacrifices for the sins of the people. The author argues that this human, temporary, and imperfect system has been superseded by Christ's eternal and perfect priesthood.
* **Changed (Greek, _metatíthēmi'_):** This verb signifies a transfer, exchange, or removal. It implies a fundamental alteration or transposition, not merely a minor adjustment. When applied to the priesthood, it means the entire system has been disestablished and replaced. This change is presented as a divine act, indicating that the old order has been set aside by God Himself to make way for a new and superior arrangement.
* **Necessity (Greek, _anánkē'_):** This word conveys the idea of compulsion, inevitability, or divine imperative. The change was not arbitrary or optional but absolutely required by God's perfect plan. The limitations of the Levitical system, its inability to truly perfect the worshiper or provide lasting atonement, made a fundamental change unavoidable if humanity was to achieve genuine reconciliation with God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For the priesthood being changed,"**: This opening clause establishes the premise of the verse. The Greek verb `metatíthēmi` (changed) indicates a complete transfer or removal of the Levitical priesthood. This change is not a mere modification but a fundamental shift in the very nature of how humanity approaches God, moving from a system based on human lineage and repeated animal sacrifices to one centered on the divine, eternal Son.
* **"there is made of necessity"**: This phrase highlights the divine imperative behind the change. The Greek `anánkē` (necessity) underscores that this was not an arbitrary decision but a logical and unavoidable consequence of the old system's inability to achieve perfection. God's perfect plan for salvation *required* a new and better way, as the old covenant, tied to the Levitical priesthood, could not ultimately deal with sin or provide full access to God.
* **"a change also of the law."**: This is the profound conclusion drawn from the premise. The "change of the law" (Greek: `metáthesis nómou`) refers to the disestablishment or transformation of the Mosaic Law, particularly its ceremonial and sacrificial aspects that were inextricably linked to the Levitical priesthood. Since the priesthood that administered those laws has been superseded, the legal framework itself must also be transformed or fulfilled, making way for the superior provisions of the New Covenant. This does not imply the abolition of God's moral standards but a shift in the means by which humanity approaches God and receives atonement.

#### Literary Devices
Hebrews 7:12 employs several key literary devices to convey its powerful message. The primary device is **Logical Deduction**, presenting a clear cause-and-effect relationship: because the priesthood has changed, a change in the law is a necessary consequence. This forms a crucial step in the author's overarching **Theological Argument** for the superiority of Christ and the New Covenant. The verse also utilizes **Conciseness** to deliver a profound theological truth in a remarkably compact statement, making it memorable and impactful. Furthermore, there is an implicit **Contrast** between the old, imperfect Levitical system and the new, perfect Melchizedekian order of Christ, which underpins the entire chapter's discussion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 7:12 is a pivotal theological statement that undergirds the entire argument of the Epistle to the Hebrews. It asserts that the transition from the Levitical priesthood to the eternal priesthood of Jesus Christ is not merely an upgrade but a fundamental shift that necessitates a new legal framework for humanity's relationship with God. The old covenant, with its laws and sacrificial system, was intrinsically tied to the Levitical priesthood and, by its very nature, could not bring about perfect cleansing or lasting access to God. Christ's perfect, once-for-all sacrifice, offered by a High Priest who lives forever, inaugurates a superior covenant and a new way of approaching God, one based on grace and faith rather than ritual and lineage. This verse thus clarifies that the New Covenant is not merely an addendum to the Old but a fulfillment and replacement of its temporary provisions, offering a complete and permanent solution to the problem of sin and alienation from God.

* [Hebrews 7:11](/hebrews/7-11 "Hebrews 7:11 - Imperfection of the Levitical Priesthood")
* [Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - Christ, Mediator of a Better Covenant")
* [Galatians 3:24-25](/galatians/3-24-25 "Galatians 3:24-25 - The Law as a Guardian Leading to Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hebrews 7:12 offers immense assurance and freedom for believers today, profoundly shaping our understanding of salvation and our access to God. It signifies that our relationship with God and the forgiveness of sins are not dependent on adherence to the intricate rituals, dietary laws, or animal sacrifices of the Old Covenant, which could never truly take away sins or perfect the worshiper. Instead, our salvation rests entirely on the finished, perfect, and eternal work of Jesus Christ, our great High Priest. His single, perfect sacrifice has inaugurated a new and better covenant, making direct, confident, and unhindered access to God's presence possible for all who believe. This verse reminds us that we live under grace, not under the limitations and shadows of the Mosaic Law, because Christ has fulfilled its righteous requirements and ushered in a superior way of reconciliation, enabling us to draw near to God with full assurance of faith ([Hebrews 10:22](/hebrews/10-22 "Hebrews 10:22 - Drawing Near with Full Assurance")). We are called to live in the freedom and confidence that comes from knowing our High Priest has secured our eternal redemption.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the "necessity" of the change in priesthood and law deepen your appreciation for Christ's work?**
* **In what ways might we, even today, be tempted to rely on human effort or external rituals rather than the finished work of Christ?**
* **How does the truth of Hebrews 7:12 impact your daily walk with God and your confidence in prayer?**

### FAQ
**What does "the priesthood being changed" mean in practical terms?**

Answer: In practical terms, "the priesthood being changed" means that the Levitical system, which involved priests from the tribe of Levi (specifically the lineage of Aaron) offering animal sacrifices in the temple according to the Mosaic Law, has been superseded. This system was temporary and imperfect, requiring repeated sacrifices because it could not fully cleanse sins or bring worshipers to perfection. The change refers to the establishment of Jesus Christ's priesthood, which is "after the order of Melchizedek" ([Hebrews 7:17](/hebrews/7-17 "Hebrews 7:17 - Christ, a Priest Forever After the Order of Melchizedek")). Christ, as our High Priest, offered Himself as the perfect, once-for-all sacrifice, thereby fulfilling and rendering the Levitical system obsolete. This new priesthood provides a permanent and complete solution for sin and grants direct access to God.

**Why was a "change also of the law" necessary if the priesthood changed?**

Answer: The Mosaic Law, particularly its ceremonial and sacrificial components, was inextricably linked to the Levitical priesthood. The laws concerning sacrifices, temple worship, and purification rituals were administered by the Levitical priests. If the priesthood itself was found to be insufficient for bringing perfection and was therefore changed by God, then the legal framework that supported and governed its functions also had to change. The author of Hebrews argues that the old law was a "shadow of the good things to come" ([Hebrews 10:1](/hebrews/10-1 "Hebrews 10:1 - The Law as a Shadow")), not the reality itself. With the advent of Christ, the reality arrived, making the shadow unnecessary. This change in law does not abolish God's moral standards but fulfills the old covenant's requirements and ushers in a new covenant based on Christ's perfect sacrifice and a superior way of relating to God.

**Does this verse mean the Old Testament Law is completely irrelevant for Christians?**

Answer: No, it does not mean the Old Testament Law is completely irrelevant, but it clarifies its role and fulfillment. Hebrews 7:12 primarily refers to the ceremonial and sacrificial aspects of the Mosaic Law, which were intrinsically tied to the Levitical priesthood and pointed forward to Christ. These aspects have been fulfilled and superseded by Christ's perfect work. However, the moral principles and ethical commands of the Old Testament Law, which reflect God's unchanging character, remain foundational for Christian living. Jesus Himself stated that He "did not come to abolish the Law or the Prophets but to fulfill them" ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Christ Fulfills the Law")). Christians are no longer under the condemnation or ritualistic demands of the Mosaic Law but are called to live by the Spirit, fulfilling the righteousness of the law through love ([Romans 8:4](/romans/8-4 "Romans 8:4 - Living by the Spirit")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hebrews 7:12 stands as a powerful testament to the Christ-centered nature of God's redemptive plan. The "change of the priesthood" finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is not merely a priest but the eternal, sinless Son of God, appointed by divine oath as a High Priest "forever after the order of Melchizedek" ([Hebrews 7:21](/hebrews/7-21 "Hebrews 7:21 - Christ's Priesthood by Oath")). This unique priesthood, unlike the temporary Levitical one, is "unchangeable" ([Hebrews 7:24](/hebrews/7-24 "Hebrews 7:24 - Christ's Unchangeable Priesthood")), meaning Christ's ministry on our behalf is permanent and perpetually effective. Consequently, the "change also of the law" signifies that the Mosaic Law, with its sacrificial demands and ceremonial rituals, has been fulfilled in Christ. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), the ultimate sacrifice that perfects those who draw near ([Hebrews 10:14](/hebrews/10-14 "Hebrews 10:14 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). Through His death and resurrection, Christ inaugurated a "new covenant" ([Hebrews 8:8](/hebrews/8-8 "Hebrews 8:8 - The New Covenant")), establishing a superior way for humanity to approach God, not through the blood of animals or the mediation of human priests, but directly through His own shed blood, granting us bold access to the throne of grace ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Bold Access to the Throne of Grace")). Thus, Hebrews 7:12 beautifully encapsulates how Christ is the culmination of all God's promises, the perfect High Priest, and the living embodiment of the new and better way to God.

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

Jeremiah 31:31

Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:

Jeremiah 31:34

And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the LORD: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.

Isaiah 66:21

And I will also take of them for priests [and] for Levites, saith the LORD.

Ezekiel 16:61

Then thou shalt remember thy ways, and be ashamed, when thou shalt receive thy sisters, thine elder and thy younger: and I will give them unto thee for daughters, but not by thy covenant.

Acts 6:13

And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law:

Acts 6:14

For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us.