### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The word **Melchisedék**, represented by `{{G3198}}`, refers to the patriarch **Melchisedec**. It is of Hebrew origin and appears **9 times** in **9 unique verses** in the Bible. The name itself identifies **Melchisedec** as a significant patriarchal figure, whose role as both king and priest is central to his meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3198}}` is exclusively used in the book of Hebrews to describe a unique figure. **Melchisedec** is introduced as the "**king** `{{G935}}` of **Salem**" `{{G4532}}` and "**priest** `{{G2409}}` of the most high **God**" `{{G2316}}`, who met and **blessed** `{{G2127}}` **Abraham** `{{G11}}` [[Hebrews 7:1]]. The recurring phrase "after the **order** `{{G5010}}` of **Melchisedec**" establishes a distinct priesthood applied to **Jesus** `{{G2424}}`, who is called a "**high priest** `{{G749}}` for **ever**" `{{G165}}` in this same order ([[Hebrews 5:6]], [[Hebrews 6:20]]). This order is presented as different from the Levitical **priesthood** `{{G2420}}`, raising questions about its necessity [[Hebrews 7:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the significance of **Melchisedec** `{{G3198}}`:
* `{{G2409}}` **hiereús** (priest): This title is fundamental to his identity, as he is described as a "**priest** of the most high God" [[Hebrews 7:1]]. The term is used repeatedly to establish his priestly role, which is then applied to Jesus.
* `{{G5010}}` **táxis** (order): This word signifies a "regular arrangement" or "official dignity." It is used to define the unique and perpetual nature of the priesthood of **Melchisedec**, a model that is distinct from the Levitical system [[Hebrews 7:11]].
* `{{G935}}` **basileús** (king): In addition to being a priest, **Melchisedec** is identified as a "**king** of Salem," showing the union of royal and priestly authority in one person [[Hebrews 7:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3198}}` is centered on the establishment of a superior priesthood:
* **A Priesthood of a Different Order:** The constant refrain "after the **order** `{{G5010}}` of **Melchisedec**" is used to contrast this priesthood with the Levitical **priesthood** `{{G2420}}`. The text questions why another **priest** `{{G2409}}` would need to **rise** `{{G450}}` if **perfection** `{{G5050}}` were attainable through the order of **Aaron** `{{G2}}` [[Hebrews 7:11]].
* **The Union of King and Priest:** **Melchisedec** uniquely holds the titles of both "**king** `{{G935}}` of **Salem**" and "**priest** `{{G2409}}` of the most high **God**" `{{G2316}}`, demonstrating a combined royal and sacred authority [[Hebrews 7:1]].
* **A Priesthood Established by Divine Oath:** Unlike the Levitical priests, this priesthood is confirmed by an **oath** `{{G3728}}` from the **Lord** `{{G2962}}`, who declared, "**Thou** `{{G4771}}` art a **priest** for **ever** `{{G165}}`" [[Hebrews 7:21]].
* **Jesus as the Fulfillment:** **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` is identified as the "**forerunner** `{{G4274}}` and **high priest** `{{G749}}`" who is "**made** `{{G1096}}`" after this eternal order, fulfilling the pattern established by **Melchisedec** [[Hebrews 6:20]].
### Summary
In summary, **Melchisedék** `{{G3198}}` is more than a patriarchal name; it is the foundation for a profound theological concept. This figure, who is both **king** `{{G935}}` and **priest** `{{G2409}}`, establishes a unique **order** `{{G5010}}` of priesthood that is eternal and confirmed by a divine **oath** `{{G3728}}`. The significance of **Melchisedec** culminates in the identification of **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` as the great **high priest** `{{G749}}` who fulfills this pattern, demonstrating a priesthood superior to the Levitical system.
TRV