Hebrews 7:2

KJV

To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace;

KJV (with Strong's)

To whom {G3739} also {G2532} Abraham {G11} gave {G3307} a tenth part {G1181} of {G575} all {G3956}; first {G4412}{G3303} being by interpretation {G2059} King {G935} of righteousness {G1343}, and {G1161} after that {G1899} also {G2532} King {G935} of Salem {G4532}, which is {G3603}, King {G935} of peace {G1515};

Complete Jewish Bible

also Avraham gave him a tenth of everything.

Now first of all, by translation of his name, he is “king of righteousness”; and then he is also king of Shalem, which means “king of peace.”

Berean Standard Bible

and Abraham apportioned to him a tenth of everything. First, his name means “king of righteousness.” Then also, “king of Salem” means “king of peace.”

American Standard Version

to whom also Abraham divided a tenth part of all (being first, by interpretation, King of righteousness, and then also King of Salem, which is, King of peace;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 7:2 continues the author's intricate argument for the superiority of Melchizedek's priesthood, and by extension, that of Jesus Christ, over the Levitical order. This verse highlights two pivotal aspects: Abraham's act of giving a tithe (a tenth part) of his spoils to Melchizedek, and the profound, divinely intended meanings embedded in Melchizedek's very titles—"King of righteousness" and "King of peace"—which are revealed through their interpretation. This establishes Melchizedek's preeminence and his prophetic role as a type of the Messiah.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows [Hebrews 7:1](/hebrews/7-1 "Hebrews 7:1 - Introduction of Melchizedek"), which introduces Melchizedek as "King of Salem, priest of the most high God," who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him. The author of Hebrews is building a theological case, drawing from the historical account in [Genesis 14:18-20](/genesis/14-18-20 "Genesis 14:18-20 - Melchizedek Blesses Abraham"), to demonstrate the superiority of Jesus' priesthood. The argument hinges on Melchizedek's unique status, which transcends the Levitical priesthood that had not yet been established but was implicitly "in Abraham's loins." The giving of the tithe by Abraham, the patriarch from whom the Levitical priests descended, signifies Melchizedek's greater authority.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The practice of tithing was a recognized act of worship and homage in the ancient Near East, often given to deities or their representatives. For Abraham, a prominent patriarch, to give a tithe of his war spoils to Melchizedek signified a recognition of Melchizedek's superior status and priestly authority. The historical setting is the aftermath of Abraham's victory over the confederation of kings who had captured Lot ([Genesis 14:1-16](/genesis/14-1-16 "Genesis 14:1-16 - Abraham Rescues Lot")). Melchizedek's appearance as "King of Salem" (likely an early name for Jerusalem) and "priest of the Most High God" is significant, as it places him outside the later Mosaic covenant and Levitical system, yet establishes his legitimate authority. This pre-Mosaic encounter is crucial for the author's argument that a priesthood existed and was recognized as legitimate even before Aaron and the Levitical line.

* **Key Themes:** The central theme in [Hebrews 7](/hebrews/7 "Hebrews 7 - The Superior Priesthood of Christ") is the **superiority of Christ's priesthood** over the Levitical priesthood, which is argued through the figure of Melchizedek. This verse specifically contributes to the themes of **Melchizedek's preeminence** (demonstrated by Abraham's tithe, acknowledging a greater authority) and the **prophetic significance of names and titles**. The interpretation of "Melchizedek" as "King of Righteousness" and "Salem" as "peace" highlights the moral and eschatological dimensions of his kingship and priesthood, directly foreshadowing the dual role of Jesus as the ultimate King who brings both righteousness and peace ([Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6-7 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - The Prince of Peace")). The author uses these details to build the case that Jesus' priesthood is "after the order of Melchizedek" ([Hebrews 5:6](/hebrews/5-6 "Hebrews 5:6 - Christ as High Priest")), a superior and eternal order.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **interpret (Greek, _hermēneúō'_):** From G2059, meaning "to translate." In this context, it refers to the act of explaining or revealing the meaning of a name or concept. Here, it underscores that the significance of Melchizedek's titles is not coincidental but divinely intended and understood, providing a deeper theological insight into his identity and role.
* **righteousness (Greek, _dikaiosýnē'_):** From G1343, meaning "equity (of character or act); specially (Christian) justification." This term signifies moral uprightness, justice, and conformity to God's standard. Melchizedek's title "King of righteousness" points to an inherent quality of his rule, establishing a foundation of moral integrity and divine justice.
* **peace (Greek, _eirḗnē'_):** From G1515, meaning "peace (literally or figuratively); by implication, prosperity." This word denotes a state of tranquility, harmony, and well-being, both internally and externally. "King of peace" highlights the beneficial and restorative nature of Melchizedek's reign, bringing reconciliation and wholeness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all;":** This clause establishes the historical fact from [Genesis 14:20](/genesis/14-20 "Genesis 14:20 - Abraham's Tithe to Melchizedek") that Abraham, the revered patriarch, recognized Melchizedek's authority by giving him a tithe of the spoils of war. This act of tithing is critical to the author's argument, as it demonstrates Abraham's submission to Melchizedek, thereby implicitly acknowledging Melchizedek's superior priestly status even before the Mosaic Law or the Levitical priesthood existed. The "all" refers to the spoils Abraham recovered from the kings.
* **"first being by interpretation King of righteousness, ":** This part reveals the profound meaning of Melchizedek's name. "Melchizedek" (Hebrew: _Malki-Tzedek_) literally means "My King is Righteousness" or "King of Righteousness." The author emphasizes that this is not merely a name but an "interpretation" that carries theological weight, pointing to the inherent character of his kingship—one founded on justice and moral rectitude. This attribute is foundational to understanding his role as a type of Christ.
* **"and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace;":** This clause further unpacks Melchizedek's identity by interpreting his geographical title. "Salem" (Hebrew: _Shalem_) is derived from the root _shalom_, meaning "peace." Thus, Melchizedek is not only the "King of Righteousness" but also the "King of Peace." This dual title powerfully foreshadows the Messiah, who would establish a kingdom characterized by both perfect justice and profound peace. The phrase "which is" (Greek: _hó esti_) explicitly states the interpretive link, leaving no ambiguity about the intended theological significance.

#### Literary Devices
The author of Hebrews masterfully employs **Typology** throughout this passage, presenting Melchizedek as a pre-Mosaic **type** or foreshadowing of Jesus Christ. Melchizedek's historical encounter with Abraham is not merely recounted but is imbued with profound theological significance, serving as a divinely appointed pattern for understanding the greater reality of Christ's priesthood. The verse also utilizes **Etymological Interpretation**, where the literal meanings of Melchizedek's name and the city of Salem are explicitly drawn out to reveal deeper spiritual truths. This interpretative method highlights the **Symbolism** inherent in these titles: "King of Righteousness" and "King of Peace" are not arbitrary but are divinely chosen to describe the essential nature of Melchizedek's rule and, more importantly, the perfect character of the Messiah's reign. This careful unpacking of names serves to elevate Melchizedek's status and strengthen the argument for Christ's superior and eternal priesthood.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 7:2 is a cornerstone in the author's argument for the superiority of Christ's priesthood. By demonstrating that Abraham, the father of the Israelite nation and the progenitor of the Levitical priesthood, paid homage to Melchizedek through a tithe, the author establishes Melchizedek's preeminence. This preeminence, rooted in his unique, non-Levitical priesthood and his inherent titles of "King of Righteousness" and "King of Peace," points directly to Jesus. Christ is the ultimate King who perfectly embodies righteousness through His atoning sacrifice and establishes true peace between God and humanity. The theological implication is that a priesthood greater than the Levitical order was necessary and foreseen, culminating in Christ, who fulfills both the kingly and priestly roles in a perfect, eternal manner.

* [Genesis 14:18-20](/genesis/14-18-20 "Genesis 14:18-20 - Melchizedek and Abraham")
* [Psalm 110:4](/psalms/110-4 "Psalm 110:4 - A Priest Forever After the Order of Melchizedek")
* [Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6-7 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - The Prince of Peace's Reign")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hebrews 7:2 invites us to contemplate the profound significance of Jesus' identity as our King of Righteousness and King of Peace. In a world often characterized by injustice and turmoil, Christ offers a reign founded on perfect justice and an enduring peace that transcends human understanding. Just as Abraham recognized Melchizedek's superior authority, we are called to acknowledge Jesus' supreme sovereignty over all aspects of our lives. This means trusting in His perfect righteousness for our salvation and embracing the peace He offers, even amidst life's challenges. Our response should be one of humble submission and joyful worship, recognizing that in Christ, we have a High Priest who not only intercedes for us but also reigns with absolute authority and unwavering benevolence. His kingdom is one where righteousness and peace truly kiss, transforming hearts and societies.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding Melchizedek as "King of Righteousness" and "King of Peace" deepen your appreciation for Jesus' multifaceted role in your life?**
* **In what areas of your life do you most need to experience Christ's righteousness and peace today?**
* **What does Abraham's act of tithing to Melchizedek teach us about recognizing and submitting to spiritual authority, especially that of Christ?**

### FAQ

**Why is Melchizedek's interpretation as "King of Righteousness" and "King of Peace" so important?**

Answer: The interpretation of Melchizedek's name ("King of Righteousness") and his city ("Salem" as "Peace") is crucial because it reveals his inherent character and foreshadows the Messiah. The author of Hebrews uses these divinely inspired titles to show that Melchizedek was a unique figure who embodied qualities that would be perfectly fulfilled in Jesus Christ. This dual identity—righteousness and peace—is central to Christ's mission: He brings righteousness through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, making us right with God ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")), and He establishes a lasting peace, reconciling humanity to God and offering inner tranquility ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hebrews 7:2 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the true and eternal King of Righteousness and King of Peace. Melchizedek, as a historical figure and a prophetic type, points forward to the Messiah in a profound way. Jesus perfectly embodies the "King of Righteousness" because He lived a sinless life, perfectly fulfilled the Law, and through His sacrificial death, provided the means for humanity's justification, imputing His righteousness to all who believe ([Romans 5:17-19](/romans/5-17-19 "Romans 5:17-19 - Righteousness Through Christ")). Furthermore, He is the "King of Peace," not only by establishing peace between God and humanity through the cross ([Colossians 1:20](/colossians/1-20 "Colossians 1:20 - Reconciling All Things Through Christ")), but also by offering an inner peace that surpasses all understanding to His followers ([Philippians 4:7](/Philippians/4-7 "Philippians 4:7 - The Peace of God")). Unlike Melchizedek, whose priesthood was temporary and symbolic, Jesus' kingship and priesthood are eternal and absolute, securing a lasting covenant of righteousness and peace for all who come to God through Him ([Hebrews 7:24-25](/hebrews/7-24-25 "Hebrews 7:24-25 - Jesus' Unchanging Priesthood")).

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

Numbers 18:21

And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation.

1 Samuel 8:17

He will take the tenth of your sheep: and ye shall be his servants.

1 Chronicles 22:9

Behold, a son shall be born to thee, who shall be a man of rest; and I will give him rest from all his enemies round about: for his name shall be Solomon, and I will give peace and quietness unto Israel in his days.

1 Samuel 8:15

And he will take the tenth of your seed, and of your vineyards, and give to his officers, and to his servants.

2 Samuel 23:3

The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men [must be] just, ruling in the fear of God.

Psalms 85:10

Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed [each other].

Psalms 85:11

Truth shall spring out of the earth; and righteousness shall look down from heaven.