### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Malkîy-Tsedeq**, represented by `{{H4442}}`, is defined as **king of right**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible and refers to Malki-Tsedek, an early king in Palestine known as Melchizedek.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4442}}` identifies a unique figure who holds both royal and priestly offices. In his first appearance, **Melchizedek** is presented as the **king** `{{H4428}}` of Salem who brought forth bread and wine, and he is identified as "the **priest** `{{H3548}}` of the most high `{{H5945}}` God" [[Genesis 14:18]]. Later, the name is invoked in an oath from the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`, establishing a perpetual priesthood with the declaration, "Thou art a **priest** `{{H3548}}` for ever after the order of **Melchizedek**" [[Psalms 110:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the roles associated with Melchizedek:
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This title establishes the royal authority of Melchizedek [[Genesis 14:18]]. It is also used to describe the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` as the **King** of Israel [[Isaiah 44:6]].
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (one officiating, a priest): This word defines Melchizedek’s sacred function [[Genesis 14:18]]. The term is also applied to the nation of Israel, which was to be a "kingdom of **priests**" [[Exodus 19:6]].
* `{{H5945}}` **ʻelyôwn** (the Supreme): This title describes the God whom Melchizedek serves as priest [[Genesis 14:18]]. It is used as a name for God, as seen in the declaration to "sing praises unto thy name, O **most High**" [[Psalms 92:1]].
* `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh** (Jehovah, the Lord): This is the Jewish national name of God. It is **Yᵉhôvâh** who swears the oath that establishes the eternal priesthood in the order of Melchizedek [[Psalms 110:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4442}}` is centered on the union of kingship and priesthood.
* **A Royal Priesthood:** Melchizedek is shown to be both a **king** and a **priest** [[Genesis 14:18]], a rare combination of roles in the scriptures that represents both civil and spiritual authority.
* **A Model of Righteousness:** The name itself means "**king of right**," embedding the concept of righteousness directly into his identity and rule.
* **An Everlasting Order:** The significance of Melchizedek extends beyond his own time, as he becomes the namesake for an eternal priesthood established by a divine oath from the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`, as stated in [[Psalms 110:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4442}}` introduces a pivotal figure whose name, **Malkîy-Tsedeq**, means "king of right." Though mentioned only twice, his character establishes a powerful precedent. By functioning as both king of Salem and priest of the most high God, he embodies a unique unification of royal and sacred authority that becomes the model for a perpetual priesthood sworn by the LORD himself.
TRV