King James Version

What Does Hebrews 7:9 Mean?

Hebrews 7:9 in the King James Version says “And as I may so say , Levi also, who receiveth tithes, payed tithes in Abraham. — study this verse from Hebrews chapter 7 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And as I may so say , Levi also, who receiveth tithes, payed tithes in Abraham.

Hebrews 7:9 · KJV


Context

7

And without all contradiction the less is blessed of the better.

8

And here men that die receive tithes; but there he receiveth them, of whom it is witnessed that he liveth.

9

And as I may so say , Levi also, who receiveth tithes, payed tithes in Abraham.

10

For he was yet in the loins of his father, when Melchisedec met him.

11

If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law,) what further need was there that another priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron?


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
A remarkable claim: 'through Abraham even Levi paid tithes,' though Levi wasn't yet born. The logic is representative - Levi was 'in the loins of his father' Abraham, so Abraham's actions counted as Levi's. This establishes that the entire Levitical priesthood acknowledged Melchizedek's (and thus Christ's) superiority by paying tithes through their ancestor. Reformed federal theology sees similar representation in Adam (we fell in him) and Christ (we're redeemed in Him).

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

This argument would resonate with Jewish readers who valued genealogical continuity and representation. The idea that descendants were 'in' their ancestors was common in Hebrew thought (cf. Romans 5:12 regarding Adam).

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the principle of representation in Adam and Christ help you understand salvation?
  2. What does Levi's 'payment' of tithes to Melchizedek reveal about the temporary nature of the old covenant?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 12 words
καὶ1 of 12

And

G2532

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

ὡς2 of 12

as

G5613

which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)

ἔπος3 of 12

I may so say

G2031

a word

εἰπεῖν4 of 12
G2036

to speak or say (by word or writing)

διὰ5 of 12

in

G1223

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

Ἀβραὰμ6 of 12

Abraham

G11

abraham, the hebrew patriarch

καὶ7 of 12

And

G2532

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

Λευὶ8 of 12

Levi

G3017

levi, the name of three israelites

9 of 12

who

G3588

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

δεκάτας10 of 12

tithes

G1181

a tenth, i.e., as a percentage or (technically) tithe

λαμβάνων11 of 12

receiveth

G2983

while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))

δεδεκάτωται·12 of 12

payed tithes

G1183

to tithe, i.e., to give or take a tenth


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 7:9 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 7:9 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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