CINXE.COM

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Hebrews 7:11 Now if perfection could have been attained through the Levitical priesthood (for on this basis the people received the law), why was there still need for another priest to appear--one in the order of Melchizedek and not in the order of Aaron?</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/hebrews/7-11.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/18/58_Heb_07_11.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Hebrews 7:11 - A Superior Priesthood" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Now if perfection could have been attained through the Levitical priesthood (for on this basis the people received the law), why was there still need for another priest to appear--one in the order of Melchizedek and not in the order of Aaron?" /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/hebrews/7-11.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/hebrews/7-11.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/hebrews/">Hebrews</a> > <a href="/hebrews/7.htm">Chapter 7</a> > Verse 11</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad11.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/hebrews/7-10.htm" title="Hebrews 7:10">◄</a> Hebrews 7:11 <a href="/hebrews/7-12.htm" title="Hebrews 7:12">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/hebrews/7.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/hebrews/7.htm">New International Version</a> If perfection could have been attained through the Levitical priesthood—and indeed the law given to the people established that priesthood—why was there still need for another priest to come, one in the order of Melchizedek, not in the order of Aaron? <a href="/nlt/hebrews/7.htm">New Living Translation</a> So if the priesthood of Levi, on which the law was based, could have achieved the perfection God intended, why did God need to establish a different priesthood, with a priest in the order of Melchizedek instead of the order of Levi and Aaron? <a href="/esv/hebrews/7.htm">English Standard Version</a> Now if perfection had been attainable through the Levitical priesthood (for under it the people received the law), what further need would there have been for another priest to arise after the order of Melchizedek, rather than one named after the order of Aaron? <a href="/bsb/hebrews/7.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Now if perfection could have been attained through the Levitical priesthood (for on this basis the people received the law), why was there still need for another priest to appear—one in the order of Melchizedek and not in the order of Aaron? <a href="/blb/hebrews/7.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Then indeed, if perfection were by the Levitical priesthood (for upon it the people had received the Law) what need was there still for another priest to arise, according to the order of Melchizedek, and not to be named according to the order of Aaron? <a href="/kjv/hebrews/7.htm">King James Bible</a> 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? <a href="/nkjv/hebrews/7.htm">New King James Version</a> Therefore, if perfection were through the Levitical priesthood (for under it the people received the law), what further need was there that another priest should rise according to the order of Melchizedek, and not be called according to the order of Aaron? <a href="/nasb_/hebrews/7.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> So if perfection was through the Levitical priesthood (for on the basis of it the people received the Law), what further need was there for another priest to arise according to the order of Melchizedek, and not be designated according to the order of Aaron? <a href="/nasb/hebrews/7.htm">NASB 1995</a> Now if perfection was through the Levitical priesthood (for on the basis of it the people received the Law), what further need was there for another priest to arise according to the order of Melchizedek, and not be designated according to the order of Aaron? <a href="/nasb77/hebrews/7.htm">NASB 1977 </a> Now if perfection was through the Levitical priesthood (for on the basis of it the people received the Law), what further need was there for another priest to arise according to the order of Melchizedek, and not be designated according to the order of Aaron? <a href="/lsb/hebrews/7.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Now if perfection was through the Levitical priesthood (for on the basis of it the people received the Law), what further need was there for another priest to arise according to the order of Melchizedek, and not be designated according to the order of Aaron? <a href="/amp/hebrews/7.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Now if perfection [a perfect fellowship between God and the worshiper] had been attained through the Levitical priesthood (for under it the people were given the Law) what further need was there for another and different kind of priest to arise, one in the manner of Melchizedek, rather than one appointed to the order of Aaron? <a href="/csb/hebrews/7.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Now if perfection came through the Levitical priesthood (for on the basis of it the people received the law ), what further need was there for another priest to appear, said to be according to the order of Melchizedek and not according to the order of Aaron? <a href="/hcsb/hebrews/7.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> If then, perfection came through the Levitical priesthood (for under it the people received the law), what further need was there for another priest to appear, said to be in the order of Melchizedek and not in the order of Aaron? <a href="/asv/hebrews/7.htm">American Standard Version</a> Now if there was perfection through the Levitical priesthood (for under it hath the people received the law), what further need was there that another priest should arise after the order of Melchizedek, and not be reckoned after the order of Aaron? <a href="/cev/hebrews/7.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Even though the Law of Moses says the priests must be descendants of Levi, those priests cannot make anyone perfect. So there needs to be a priest like Melchizedek, rather than one from the priestly family of Aaron. <a href="/erv/hebrews/7.htm">English Revised Version</a> Now if there was perfection through the Levitical priesthood (for under it hath the people received the law), what further need was there that another priest should arise after the order of Melchizedek, and not be reckoned after the order of Aaron? <a href="/gwt/hebrews/7.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> The people established the Levitical priesthood based on instructions they received. If the work of the Levitical priests had been perfect, we wouldn't need to speak about another kind of priest. However, we speak about another kind of priest, a priest like Melchizedek, not a Levitical priest like Aaron. <a href="/gnt/hebrews/7.htm">Good News Translation</a> It was on the basis of the levitical priesthood that the Law was given to the people of Israel. Now, if the work of the levitical priests had been perfect, there would have been no need for a different kind of priest to appear, one who is in the priestly order of Melchizedek, not of Aaron. <a href="/isv/hebrews/7.htm">International Standard Version</a> Now if perfection could have been attained through the Levitical priesthood—for on this basis the people received the Law—what further need would there be to speak of appointing another kind of priest according to the order of Melchizedek, not one according to the order of Aaron? <a href="/msb/hebrews/7.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Now if perfection could have been attained through the Levitical priesthood (for on this basis the people received the law), why was there still need for another priest to appear?one in the order of Melchizedek and not in the order of Aaron? <a href="/net/hebrews/7.htm">NET Bible</a> So if perfection had in fact been possible through the Levitical priesthood--for on that basis the people received the law--what further need would there have been for another priest to arise, said to be in the order of Melchizedek and not in Aaron's order? <a href="/nheb/hebrews/7.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Now if there was perfection through the Levitical priesthood (for under it the people have received the law), what further need was there for another priest to arise after the order of Melchizedek, and not be called after the order of Aaron? <a href="/wbt/hebrews/7.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> 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? <a href="/wey/hebrews/7.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Now if the crowning blessing was attainable by means of the Levitical priesthood--for as resting on this foundation the people received the Law, to which they are still subject-- what further need was there for a Priest of a different kind to be raised up belonging to the order of Melchizedek instead of being said to belong to the order of Aaron? <a href="/web/hebrews/7.htm">World English Bible</a> Now if perfection was through the Levitical priesthood (for under it the people have received the law), what further need was there for another priest to arise after the order of Melchizedek, and not be called after the order of Aaron? <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/hebrews/7.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> If indeed, then, perfection were through the Levitical priesthood—for the people under it had received law—what further need, according to the order of Melchizedek, for another priest to arise, and not to be called according to the order of Aaron? <a href="/blb/hebrews/7.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Then indeed, if perfection were by the Levitical priesthood (for upon it the people had received the Law) what need was there still for another priest to arise, according to the order of Melchizedek, and not to be named according to the order of Aaron? <a href="/ylt/hebrews/7.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> If indeed, then, perfection were through the Levitical priesthood -- for the people under it had received law -- what further need, according to the order of Melchisedek, for another priest to arise, and not to be called according to the order of Aaron? <a href="/slt/hebrews/7.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> If truly therefore completion were by the Levitical priesthood, (for the people received legislation by it,) what further need according to the order of Melchisedec for another priest to be raised, and not according to the order of Aaron?<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/hebrews/7.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> If then perfection was by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law,) what further need was there that another priest should rise according to the order of Melchisedech, and not be called according to the order of Aaron? <a href="/cpdv/hebrews/7.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Therefore, if consummation had occurred through the Levitical priesthood (for under it the people received the law), then what further need would there be for another Priest to rise up according to the order of Melchizedek, one who was not called according to the order of Aaron? <a href="/nabre/hebrews/7.htm">New American Bible</a> If, then, perfection came through the levitical priesthood, on the basis of which the people received the law, what need would there still have been for another priest to arise according to the order of Melchizedek, and not reckoned according to the order of Aaron? <a href="/nrsvce/hebrews/7.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Now if perfection had been attainable through the levitical priesthood—for the people received the law under this priesthood—what further need would there have been to speak of another priest arising according to the order of Melchizedek, rather than one according to the order of Aaron?<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/hebrews/7.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> If therefore perfection had been reached by the Le-vit’ic-al priesthood, by which the law was enacted for the people, what further need was there that another priest should rise after the order of Mel-chis'e-dec? Otherwise, the scriptures would have said, that he would be after the order of Aaron. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/hebrews/7.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> If perfection therefore is by Priesthood of Levi, ( for by it The Written Law was established to the people ), why was another Priest needed to arise in the image of Melchizedek? But does it say that he would be in the image of Aaron?<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/hebrews/7.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> If, then, there had been a perfect expiation by means of the Levitical priesthood, (for with reference to it, the people received the law,) what further need was there that another priest should be raised up after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron? <a href="/godbey/hebrews/7.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> Then indeed if perfection was through the Levitical priesthood, for unto it the people have been tithed, what need is there still that another priest shall rise after the order of Melchizedek, and not be called after the order of Aaron? <a href="/haweis/hebrews/7.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> If therefore there was perfection by the Levitical priesthood (for under that the people had the law given to them), what farther need was there that another priest should arise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron? <a href="/mace/hebrews/7.htm">Mace New Testament</a> If therefore the Levitical priesthood, concerning which the people received a law, could have given perfection, what further need was there that another priest should rise, to be named after the order of Melchisedec, and not after the order of Aaron? <a href="/wey/hebrews/7.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Now if the crowning blessing was attainable by means of the Levitical priesthood--for as resting on this foundation the people received the Law, to which they are still subject-- what further need was there for a Priest of a different kind to be raised up belonging to the order of Melchizedek instead of being said to belong to the order of Aaron? <a href="/worrell/hebrews/7.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> If, therefore, there was perfection through the Levitical priesthood (for under it the people have received the law), what further need was there, that another Priest should arise according to the rank of Melchizedek, and not be reckoned according to the rank of Aaron? <a href="/worsley/hebrews/7.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> Now if perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law) what farther need was there that another priest should arise after the order of Melchisedec, and not after the order of Aaron? <a href="/parallel/hebrews/7-11.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/x-IAXXp5zcA?start=1072" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/hebrews/7.htm">A Superior Priesthood</a> 10For when Melchizedek met Abraham, Levi was still in the loin of his ancestor. 11<a href="/greek/3767.htm" title="3767: oun (Conj) -- Therefore, then. Apparently a primary word; certainly, or accordingly.">Now</a> <a href="/greek/1487.htm" title="1487: Ei (Conj) -- If. A primary particle of conditionality; if, whether, that, etc.">if</a> <a href="/greek/5050.htm" title="5050: teleiōsis (N-NFS) -- Completion, fulfillment, perfection. From phusioo; completion, i.e. verification, or absolution.">perfection</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: ēn (V-IIA-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">could have been attained</a> <a href="/greek/3303.htm" title="3303: men (Conj) -- A primary particle; properly, indicative of affirmation or concession; usually followed by a contrasted clause with de."></a> <a href="/greek/1223.htm" title="1223: dia (Prep) -- A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.">through</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/3020.htm" title="3020: Leuitikēs (Adj-GFS) -- Belonging to the tribe of Levi; Levitical. From Leuites; Levitic, i.e. Relating to the Levites.">Levitical</a> <a href="/greek/2420.htm" title="2420: hierōsynēs (N-GFS) -- The abstract notion of the priestly office. From hieros; sacredness, i.e. the priestly office.">priesthood</a> <a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.">(for</a> <a href="/greek/1909.htm" title="1909: ep’ (Prep) -- On, to, against, on the basis of, at. ">on</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autēs (PPro-GF3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">this basis</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/2992.htm" title="2992: laos (N-NMS) -- Apparently a primary word; a people.">people</a> <a href="/greek/3549.htm" title="3549: nenomothetētai (V-RIM/P-3S) -- From nomothetes; to legislate, i.e. to have enactments injoined, be sanctioned.">received the law),</a> <a href="/greek/5101.htm" title="5101: tis (IPro-NFS) -- Who, which, what, why. Probably emphatic of tis; an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what.">why</a> <a href="/greek/2089.htm" title="2089: eti (Adv) -- (a) of time: still, yet, even now, (b) of degree: even, further, more, in addition. Perhaps akin to etos; yet, still.">was there still</a> <a href="/greek/5532.htm" title="5532: chreia (N-NFS) -- From the base of chraomai or chre; employment, i.e. An affair; also occasion, demand, requirement or destitution.">need</a> <a href="/greek/2087.htm" title="2087: heteron (Adj-AMS) -- (a) of two: another, a second, (b) other, different, (c) one's neighbor. Of uncertain affinity; other or different.">for another</a> <a href="/greek/2409.htm" title="2409: hierea (N-AMS) -- A priest, one who offers sacrifice to a god (in Jewish and pagan religions; of Christians only met.). From hieros; a priest.">priest</a> <a href="/greek/450.htm" title="450: anistasthai (V-PNM) -- To raise up, set up; I rise from among (the) dead; I arise, appear. From ana and histemi; to stand up.">to appear—</a> <a href="/greek/3004.htm" title="3004: legesthai (V-PNM/P) -- (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. ">one</a> <a href="/greek/2596.htm" title="2596: kata (Prep) -- A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined).">in</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/5010.htm" title="5010: taxin (N-AFS) -- From tasso; regular arrangement, i.e. fixed succession, official dignity.">order</a> <a href="/greek/3198.htm" title="3198: Melchisedek (N-GMS) -- Melchizedek, king and priest of Salem. Of Hebrew origin; Melchisedek, a patriarch.">of Melchizedek</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ou (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">not</a> <a href="/greek/2596.htm" title="2596: kata (Prep) -- A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined).">in</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/5010.htm" title="5010: taxin (N-AFS) -- From tasso; regular arrangement, i.e. fixed succession, official dignity.">order</a> <a href="/greek/2.htm" title="2: Aarōn (N-GMS) -- Aaron, son of Amram and Jochebed, brother of Moses. Of Hebrew origin; Aaron, the brother of Moses.">of Aaron?</a> 12For when the priesthood is changed, the law must be changed as well.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/psalms/110-4.htm">Psalm 110:4</a> The LORD has sworn and will not change His mind: “You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.” <a href="/genesis/14-18.htm">Genesis 14:18-20</a> Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine—since he was priest of God Most High— / and he blessed Abram and said: “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth, / and blessed be God Most High, who has delivered your enemies into your hand.” Then Abram gave Melchizedek a tenth of everything. <a href="/hebrews/5-6.htm">Hebrews 5:6</a> And in another passage God says: “You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.” <a href="/hebrews/5-10.htm">Hebrews 5:10</a> and was designated by God as high priest in the order of Melchizedek. <a href="/hebrews/6-20.htm">Hebrews 6:20</a> where Jesus our forerunner has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever in the order of Melchizedek. <a href="/hebrews/8-6.htm">Hebrews 8:6</a> Now, however, Jesus has received a much more excellent ministry, just as the covenant He mediates is better and is founded on better promises. <a href="/hebrews/9-9.htm">Hebrews 9:9-10</a> It is an illustration for the present time, because the gifts and sacrifices being offered were unable to cleanse the conscience of the worshiper. / They consist only in food and drink and special washings—external regulations imposed until the time of reform. <a href="/hebrews/10-1.htm">Hebrews 10:1</a> For the law is only a shadow of the good things to come, not the realities themselves. It can never, by the same sacrifices offered year after year, make perfect those who draw near to worship. <a href="/galatians/3-19.htm">Galatians 3:19</a> Why then was the law given? It was added because of transgressions, until the arrival of the seed to whom the promise referred. It was administered through angels by a mediator. <a href="/romans/7-12.htm">Romans 7:12</a> So then, the law is holy, and the commandment is holy, righteous, and good. <a href="/romans/8-3.htm">Romans 8:3-4</a> For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful man, as an offering for sin. He thus condemned sin in the flesh, / so that the righteous standard of the law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. <a href="/acts/13-39.htm">Acts 13:39</a> Through Him everyone who believes is justified from everything from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses. <a href="/matthew/5-17.htm">Matthew 5:17</a> Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them. <a href="/1_peter/2-9.htm">1 Peter 2:9</a> But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. <a href="/exodus/28-1.htm">Exodus 28:1</a> “Next, have your brother Aaron brought to you from among the Israelites, along with his sons Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar, to serve Me as priests.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>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?perfection.<a href="/hebrews/7-18.htm">Hebrews 7:18,19</a> For there is verily a disannulling of the commandment going before for the weakness and unprofitableness thereof… <a href="/hebrews/8-7.htm">Hebrews 8:7,10-13</a> For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second… <a href="/hebrews/10-1.htm">Hebrews 10:1-4</a> For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect… what.<a href="/hebrews/7-26.htm">Hebrews 7:26-28</a> For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens; … another.<a href="/hebrews/7-15.htm">Hebrews 7:15,17,21</a> And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest, … See on ch.<a href="/hebrews/5-6.htm">Hebrews 5:6,10</a> As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec… <a href="/hebrews/6-20.htm">Hebrews 6:20</a> Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/hebrews/5-4.htm">Aaron</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-10.htm">Arise</a> <a href="/galatians/2-21.htm">Attainable</a> <a href="/philemon/1-9.htm">Basis</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-6.htm">Belong</a> <a href="/hebrews/5-10.htm">Belonging</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-7.htm">Blessing</a> <a href="/ezekiel/7-10.htm">Crowning</a> <a href="/hebrews/1-1.htm">Different</a> <a href="/hebrews/6-1.htm">Foundation</a> <a href="/titus/3-10.htm">Further</a> <a href="/philemon/1-9.htm">Instead</a> <a href="/philemon/1-14.htm">Kind</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-2.htm">Means</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-10.htm">Melchisedec</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-10.htm">Melchizedek</a> <a href="/hebrews/5-12.htm">Need</a> <a href="/hebrews/6-20.htm">Order</a> <a href="/hebrews/6-1.htm">Perfection</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-3.htm">Priest</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-5.htm">Priesthood</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-8.htm">Raised</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-9.htm">Received</a> <a href="/titus/1-2.htm">Resting</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-4.htm">Rise</a> <a href="/hebrews/5-2.htm">Subject</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/hebrews/9-4.htm">Aaron</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-15.htm">Arise</a> <a href="/galatians/2-21.htm">Attainable</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-16.htm">Basis</a> <a href="/hebrews/9-11.htm">Belong</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-15.htm">Belonging</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-19.htm">Blessing</a> <a href="/psalms/8-5.htm">Crowning</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-13.htm">Different</a> <a href="/hebrews/9-26.htm">Foundation</a> <a href="/hebrews/10-18.htm">Further</a> <a href="/hebrews/11-16.htm">Instead</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-15.htm">Kind</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-19.htm">Means</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-15.htm">Melchisedec</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-15.htm">Melchizedek</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-26.htm">Need</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-15.htm">Order</a> <a href="/1_john/2-5.htm">Perfection</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-15.htm">Priest</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-12.htm">Priesthood</a> <a href="/hebrews/11-35.htm">Raised</a> <a href="/hebrews/8-6.htm">Received</a> <a href="/1_peter/1-21.htm">Resting</a> <a href="/hebrews/11-35.htm">Rise</a> <a href="/hebrews/12-9.htm">Subject</a><div class="vheading2">Hebrews 7</div>1. <a href="/hebrews/7-1.htm">Christ Jesus is a priest after the order of Melchizedek;</a> 11. <a href="/hebrews/7-11.htm">and so far more excellent than the priests of Aaron's order.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/hebrews/7.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/hebrews/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/hebrews/7.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Now if perfection could have been attained through the Levitical priesthood The Levitical priesthood, established under the Mosaic Law, was central to Israel's religious life. The priests, descendants of Levi, were responsible for temple sacrifices and rituals. However, the term "perfection" here implies a complete, unblemished relationship with God, which the Levitical system could not achieve. The sacrifices were temporary and needed repetition, highlighting their insufficiency in providing ultimate redemption or spiritual completeness.(for on this basis the people received the law) The law given to Israel was intertwined with the Levitical priesthood. The priests were mediators of the law, teaching and enforcing it. The law served as a guide to holiness and a means to maintain covenant relationship with God. However, it also revealed human sinfulness and the need for a more profound solution, as it could not change the heart or provide eternal salvation.why was there still need for another priest to appear— The need for another priest suggests the inadequacy of the Levitical system. This points to a divine plan for a superior priesthood. The appearance of another priest indicates a shift in the divine order, fulfilling a deeper purpose in God's redemptive history. This new priesthood would address the limitations of the old covenant and offer a more complete means of reconciliation with God.one in the order of Melchizedek Melchizedek, a mysterious figure from <a href="/genesis/14.htm">Genesis 14</a>, was both a king and priest, predating the Levitical priesthood. His order is eternal and not based on lineage, unlike the Aaronic priesthood. <a href="/psalms/110-4.htm">Psalm 110:4</a> prophesies a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek, pointing to a messianic figure who would embody both kingly and priestly roles, offering a perfect and eternal priesthood.and not in the order of Aaron? The Aaronic priesthood, established through Aaron, Moses' brother, was hereditary and limited to the tribe of Levi. It was bound by the law and its rituals. The contrast with Melchizedek's order highlights the temporary and imperfect nature of the Aaronic priesthood. The new priesthood, in the order of Melchizedek, signifies a transformative shift, fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who offers a perfect, eternal mediation between God and humanity.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/l/levitical_priesthood.htm">Levitical Priesthood</a> This refers to the priestly system established under the Law of Moses, where the descendants of Levi, particularly Aaron, served as priests. Their role was to mediate between God and the Israelites, offering sacrifices and performing rituals. 2. <a href="/topical/m/melchizedek.htm">Melchizedek</a> A mysterious figure in the Bible, Melchizedek was both a king and priest who blessed Abraham. He is significant for being a priest not by lineage but by divine appointment, prefiguring Christ's eternal priesthood. 3. <a href="/topical/a/aaron.htm">Aaron</a> The brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. The Aaronic priesthood was hereditary, passed down through his descendants. 4. <a href="/topical/t/the_law.htm">The Law</a> Refers to the Mosaic Law given to the Israelites, which included ceremonial, moral, and civil laws. The Levitical priesthood was a central part of this system. 5. <a href="/topical/j/jesus_christ.htm">Jesus Christ</a> The ultimate high priest in the order of Melchizedek, whose priesthood is eternal and perfect, unlike the temporary and imperfect Levitical priesthood.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_imperfection_of_the_old_system.htm">The Imperfection of the Old System</a> The Levitical priesthood and the Law were unable to bring about true spiritual perfection. They were a shadow of the greater reality to come in Christ. <a href="/topical/t/the_superiority_of_christ's_priesthood.htm">The Superiority of Christ's Priesthood</a> Jesus, as a priest in the order of Melchizedek, offers a perfect and eternal priesthood. Unlike the Levitical priests, His priesthood is not based on ancestry but on the power of an indestructible life. <a href="/topical/t/the_necessity_of_a_new_covenant.htm">The Necessity of a New Covenant</a> The need for a priest in the order of Melchizedek indicates the insufficiency of the old covenant and the necessity of a new, better covenant through Jesus. <a href="/topical/l/living_under_grace.htm">Living Under Grace</a> Believers are called to live under the grace of the new covenant, relying on Christ's perfect sacrifice and priesthood rather than the works of the Law.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_hebrews_7.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Hebrews 7</a> <a href="/q/why_does_hebrews_7_mention_melchizedek.htm">Why does Hebrews 7 establish a priesthood “in the order of Melchizedek” (Hebrews 7:17), which appears to undermine the Levitical priesthood mandated in the Old Testament? </a> <a href="/q/why_exclude_levites_in_numbers_1_47-53.htm">What rationale is given for excluding Levites from the census in Numbers 1:47–53, and how does this affect the overall population count?</a> <a href="/q/do_leviticus_22's_rules_seem_outdated_now.htm">Could Leviticus 22’s detailed purity regulations reflect historical or cultural practices now seen as scientifically or ethically questionable? </a> <a href="/q/is_the_law_of_moses_useful_or_not.htm">Is the law of Moses useful? Yes. All scripture is... profitable... (2 Timothy 3:16) No. . . . A former commandment is set aside because of its weakness and uselessness... (Hebrews 7:18)</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/hebrews/7.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(11) The connection of thought may be given thus:--It has been shown that the position of Melchizedek towards Abraham involves of necessity his superiority to Abraham, to Levi also and his descendants, so that "the order of Melchizedek" is altogether different from, and higher than, "the order of Aaron." This being so, how could this other priesthood take the place of the Levitical if this latter had answered its full purpose?Perfection.--Literally, the making perfect--the full accomplishment of the essential aim of priesthood, in bringing men "near to God."Received.--The better reading is hath received.--The object of this parenthesis is to point out the intimate relation between the Law and the priesthood: "I speak of the Levitical priesthood, for it is on the basis of this that the Law given to the people rests."Another priest.--That is (as the Greek implies), a priest of a different kind (<a href="/hebrews/7-13.htm" title="For he of whom these things are spoken pertains to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar.">Hebrews 7:13</a>; <a href="/hebrews/7-15.htm" title="And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there rises another priest,">Hebrews 7:15</a>). The question is equivalent to a strong denial: there could be no such need.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/hebrews/7.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verses 11, 12. - If then perfection τελείωσις: cf. οὐδὲν γὰρ ἐτελείωσεν ὁ νόμος) were through the Levitical priesthood for under it (rather, upon it, on the ground of it) the people hath received the Law), what need was there that another (rather, a different) priest should rise after the order of Melchizedek, and not be called after the order of Aaron. For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the Law. Here a further thought is introduced. So far the superiority of the priesthood after the order of Melchizedek to the Aaronic has been shown. The new thought is that the very mention in the psalm of a different order of priesthood implies that the old order, and with it the whole legal dispensation which depended on it, was imperfect and to be superseded. This is the general drift of vers. 11, 12, though the sequence of thought in their several clauses is not easy to follow. Ideas in the writer's mind, not expressed, seem necessary to be understood. In the parenthetical clause of ver. 11, ἐπ αὐτὴς and νενομοθέτηται are decidedly to be preferred, on the ground of authority, to ἐπ αὐτῇ and νενομοθέτητο of the Textus Receptus. 'The meaning of the clause (whatever be the precise thought connecting it with the sentence in which it stands) is that the whole Law rested on the institution of the priesthood; not the priests only, but the whole people (ὁ λαὸς), received their Law as grounded on it. On the same idea depends ver. 12, where it is said that a change of the priesthood involves of necessity a change of the Law. The verses next following serve to remove all doubt that there is a complete change of the priesthood; the proofs being, not only the patent fact that the Messiah is of the tribe, not of Levi, but of Judah (vers. 13, 14), but also, for mere abundant evidence of the Divine purpose, that significant utterance, again adduced, about his being after the order, not of Aaron, but of Melchizedek (vers. 15, 16, 17). <a href="/commentaries/hebrews/7-11.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>Now οὖν (oun) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3767.htm">Strong's 3767: </a> Therefore, then. Apparently a primary word; certainly, or accordingly. if Εἰ (Ei) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1487.htm">Strong's 1487: </a> If. A primary particle of conditionality; if, whether, that, etc. perfection τελείωσις (teleiōsis) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5050.htm">Strong's 5050: </a> Completion, fulfillment, perfection. From phusioo; completion, i.e. verification, or absolution. could have been attained ἦν (ēn) Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. through διὰ (dia) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1223.htm">Strong's 1223: </a> A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through. the τῆς (tēs) Article - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. Levitical Λευιτικῆς (Leuitikēs) Adjective - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3020.htm">Strong's 3020: </a> Belonging to the tribe of Levi; Levitical. From Leuites; Levitic, i.e. Relating to the Levites. priesthood ἱερωσύνης (hierōsynēs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2420.htm">Strong's 2420: </a> The abstract notion of the priestly office. From hieros; sacredness, i.e. the priestly office. ( γὰρ (gar) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1063.htm">Strong's 1063: </a> For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason. upon ἐπ’ (ep’) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1909.htm">Strong's 1909: </a> On, to, against, on the basis of, at. [which] basis αὐτῆς (autēs) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Feminine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. the ὁ (ho) Article - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. people λαὸς (laos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2992.htm">Strong's 2992: </a> Apparently a primary word; a people. received [the] Law), νενομοθέτηται (nenomothetētai) Verb - Perfect Indicative Middle or Passive - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3549.htm">Strong's 3549: </a> From nomothetes; to legislate, i.e. to have enactments injoined, be sanctioned. why τίς (tis) Interrogative / Indefinite Pronoun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5101.htm">Strong's 5101: </a> Who, which, what, why. Probably emphatic of tis; an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what. [was there] still ἔτι (eti) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_2089.htm">Strong's 2089: </a> (a) of time: still, yet, even now, (b) of degree: even, further, more, in addition. Perhaps akin to etos; 'yet, ' still. need χρεία (chreia) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5532.htm">Strong's 5532: </a> From the base of chraomai or chre; employment, i.e. An affair; also occasion, demand, requirement or destitution. [for] another ἕτερον (heteron) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2087.htm">Strong's 2087: </a> (a) of two: another, a second, (b) other, different, (c) one's neighbor. Of uncertain affinity; other or different. priest ἱερέα (hierea) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2409.htm">Strong's 2409: </a> A priest, one who offers sacrifice to a god (in Jewish and pagan religions; of Christians only met.). From hieros; a priest. to appear— ἀνίστασθαι (anistasthai) Verb - Present Infinitive Middle <a href="/greek/strongs_450.htm">Strong's 450: </a> To raise up, set up; I rise from among (the) dead; I arise, appear. From ana and histemi; to stand up. [one] λέγεσθαι (legesthai) Verb - Present Infinitive Middle or Passive <a href="/greek/strongs_3004.htm">Strong's 3004: </a> (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. in κατὰ (kata) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_2596.htm">Strong's 2596: </a> A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined). the τὴν (tēn) Article - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. order τάξιν (taxin) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5010.htm">Strong's 5010: </a> From tasso; regular arrangement, i.e. fixed succession, official dignity. of Melchizedek Μελχισέδεκ (Melchisedek) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3198.htm">Strong's 3198: </a> Melchizedek, king and priest of Salem. Of Hebrew origin; Melchisedek, a patriarch. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. not οὐ (ou) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. in κατὰ (kata) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_2596.htm">Strong's 2596: </a> A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined). the τὴν (tēn) Article - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. order τάξιν (taxin) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5010.htm">Strong's 5010: </a> From tasso; regular arrangement, i.e. fixed succession, official dignity. of Aaron? Ἀαρὼν (Aarōn) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2.htm">Strong's 2: </a> Aaron, son of Amram and Jochebed, brother of Moses. Of Hebrew origin; Aaron, the brother of Moses. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/hebrews/7-11.htm">Hebrews 7:11 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/hebrews/7-11.htm">Hebrews 7:11 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/hebrews/7-11.htm">Hebrews 7:11 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/hebrews/7-11.htm">Hebrews 7:11 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/hebrews/7-11.htm">Hebrews 7:11 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/hebrews/7-11.htm">Hebrews 7:11 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/hebrews/7-11.htm">Hebrews 7:11 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/hebrews/7-11.htm">Hebrews 7:11 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/hebrews/7-11.htm">Hebrews 7:11 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/hebrews/7-11.htm">Hebrews 7:11 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-11.htm">NT Letters: Hebrews 7:11 Now if there was perfection through (Heb. He. Hb) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/hebrews/7-10.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Hebrews 7:10"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Hebrews 7:10" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/hebrews/7-12.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Hebrews 7:12"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Hebrews 7:12" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>