Hebrews 7:9

"Here people who die receive tithes, but there one receives tithes of whom it is testified that he lives."

Key Reflection

In Hebrews 7:9, this verse contrasts the mortal nature of the Levitical priesthood with the eternal priesthood of Melchizedek. Those who die under the old covenant receive tithes as part of a system where death is inevitable, but in the new covenant represented by Melchizedek, one receives tithes from someone testified to be alive, pointing to the everlasting nature of Jesus' priesthood.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 9. And as I may so say. So to speak--wv epov eipein. For numerous examples in the classic writers of this expression, see Wetstein, in loc. It is used precisely as it is with us when we say, "so to speak," or, "if I may be allowed the expression." It is employed when what is said is not strictly and literally true, but when it amounts to the same thing, or when about the same idea is conveyed. "It is a softening down of an expression which a writer supposes his readers may deem too strong, or which may have the appearance of excess or severity. It amounts to an indirect apology for employing an unusual or unexpected assertion or phrase." Prof. Stuart.

Related Verses

More from Hebrews 7

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

Go deeper with Bible.talk - your AI Bible study companion