King James Version

What Does Hebrews 7:15 Mean?

Hebrews 7:15 in the King James Version says “And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest, — study this verse from Hebrews chapter 7 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest,

Hebrews 7:15 · KJV


Context

13

For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar.

14

For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood.

15

And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest,

16

Who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless life.

17

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


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
It becomes 'even more evident' when considering that Christ arose 'in the likeness of Melchizedek.' The Greek 'perissoteron' (more abundantly) emphasizes the clarity of the argument. Christ's priesthood is patterned after Melchizedek's, not Aaron's. The word 'likeness' (Greek 'homoiotēta') shows typological correspondence - Melchizedek foreshadowed Christ, who is the reality.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The author has been building this argument since 5:6. Now the conclusion becomes overwhelming: Christ's priesthood is different in kind, not merely degree, from the Levitical. It's based on different qualifications and produces different results.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does recognizing Melchizedek as a type of Christ enrich your understanding of Genesis 14?
  2. What makes Christ's priesthood not just better but different in kind from all human priesthoods?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 13 words
καὶ1 of 13

And

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

περισσότερον2 of 13

far more

G4054

in a more superabundant way

ἔτι3 of 13

yet

G2089

"yet," still (of time or degree)

κατάδηλόν4 of 13

evident

G2612

manifest

ἐστιν5 of 13

it is

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

εἰ6 of 13

for

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

κατὰ7 of 13

that after

G2596

(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)

τὴν8 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ὁμοιότητα9 of 13

the similitude

G3665

resemblance

Μελχισέδεκ10 of 13

of Melchisedec

G3198

melchisedek (also melchisedec or malki-tsedek)

ἀνίσταται11 of 13

there ariseth

G450

to stand up (literal or figurative, transitive or intransitive)

ἱερεὺς12 of 13

priest

G2409

a priest (literally or figuratively)

ἕτερος13 of 13

another

G2087

(an-, the) other or different


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Hebrews. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Hebrews 7:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Hebrews 7:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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