Hebrews 7:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Hebrews 7:5
5 And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of Abraham:
Chapter Context
Hebrews 7 is a homiletical epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of holiness, righteousness, discipleship. Written during before Jerusalem's destruction (c. 60-70 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Jewish Christians faced persecution pressure to return to Judaism's legal protections.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-28: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Hebrews and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Hebrews 7:5
5 And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of Abraham:
Analysis
Levitical priests received tithes 'from the people according to the law,' though they too descended from Abraham. This was a legal obligation based on the Mosaic covenant. The point is that receiving tithes indicates priestly authority over those who pay. The Levitical system had authority, but it was derived and temporary. Christ's Melchizedekian priesthood is superior and eternal.
Historical Context
Numbers 18:21-26 prescribed tithes for Levites as their inheritance since they received no land. This legal arrangement sustained the Levitical priesthood but also revealed its dependence on others and its this-worldly nature.
Reflection
- What does the tithe system reveal about different levels of authority in redemptive history?
- How does Christ's priesthood surpass the authority of the Levitical priesthood?
Word Studies
- Law: νόμος (Nomos) G3551 - Law