Hebrews 7:2
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;
Original Language Analysis
ὅ
To whom
G3739
ὅ
To whom
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
1 of 21
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
2 of 21
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
δεκάτην
a tenth part
G1181
δεκάτην
a tenth part
Strong's:
G1181
Word #:
3 of 21
a tenth, i.e., as a percentage or (technically) tithe
ἀπὸ
of
G575
ἀπὸ
of
Strong's:
G575
Word #:
4 of 21
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
ἐμέρισεν
gave
G3307
ἐμέρισεν
gave
Strong's:
G3307
Word #:
6 of 21
to part, i.e., (literally) to apportion, bestow, share, or (figuratively) to disunite, differ
μὲν
G3303
μὲν
Strong's:
G3303
Word #:
9 of 21
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
δικαιοσύνης
of righteousness
G1343
δικαιοσύνης
of righteousness
Strong's:
G1343
Word #:
12 of 21
equity (of character or act); specially (christian) justification
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
15 of 21
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ὅ
To whom
G3739
ὅ
To whom
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
18 of 21
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
Cross References
Numbers 18:21And, 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.Psalms 72:7In his days shall the righteous flourish; and abundance of peace so long as the moon endureth.1 Chronicles 22:9Behold, 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.Genesis 28:22And this stone, which I have set for a pillar, shall be God's house: and of all that thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth unto thee.1 Samuel 8:17He will take the tenth of your sheep: and ye shall be his servants.1 Samuel 8:15And he will take the tenth of your seed, and of your vineyards, and give to his officers, and to his servants.2 Samuel 8:15And David reigned over all Israel; and David executed judgment and justice unto all his people.2 Samuel 23:3The 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.
Historical Context
The Hebrew names and titles are not coincidental but providentially designed to prefigure Christ. Salem (shalom—peace) connects to Jerusalem, the city of the Great King (Psalm 48:2; Matthew 5:35).
Questions for Reflection
- How have you experienced Christ first as your righteousness, then as your peace?
- Why must righteousness precede peace in your relationship with God?
Analysis & Commentary
Abraham gave Melchizedek 'tithes of all,' acknowledging his superiority. His name means 'King of righteousness' and his title 'King of Salem' means 'King of peace.' This typology is significant—Christ is first our righteousness (justification must precede peace) then our peace (reconciliation with God). The order matters: peace with God comes through the righteousness of Christ.