Who Was Melchizedek? His Origin, Age He Died and Contribution

Who Was Melchizedek: A captivating character named Melchizedek, who is also the king of Salem and a priest of the Most High God, is introduced in the Book of Genesis. Scholars and theologians have long been captivated by his enigmatic nature and peculiar position within biblical narratives.

Unresolved among the great mysteries encircling Melchizedek is his age at the time of his death. The subsequent article will delve into the Old Testament narrative surrounding Melchizedek, shedding light on this ancient individual by examining his origins.

Who Was Melchizedek?

  The Hebrew name “Melchizedek” consists of two distinct components: “Melech” denoting the monarch, and “Tzedek” signifying righteousness. Consequently, the name Melchizedek can be rendered as “King of Righteousness.” In Genesis 14:18–20, Melchizedek is described as a priest and monarch of Salem, a city that was ultimately equated with Jerusalem.

In the Bible, Melchizedek has a fleeting but significant presence. In Genesis 14, a dispute emerges among several authorities that transpires during the era inhabited by Abram (later recognized as Abraham). Abram encounters Melchizedek subsequent to a triumphant combat, whereupon he receives his blessing and is presented with bread and wine. By way of compensation, Abram tithes to Melchizedek all that he possesses. This action serves as an expression of Abram’s profound reverence and esteem for Melchizedek.

“Melech” (king) and “Tzedek” (righteousness). As a result, Melchizedek’s name can be translated as “King of Righteousness.” Melchizedek is presented in Genesis 14:18-20

St Bartholomew History 2023: Date, History, Facts about Christianity

Origins of Melchizedek in Judaism:

The origins of Melchizedek are not specified in the Bible. The lack of information regarding his date of birth, ancestry, or demise leaves scholars to speculate regarding his past and age at the moment of his passing. The obscurity pertaining to his provenance has engendered a multitude of interpretations and concepts originating from diverse religious traditions.

Numerous terms are used to refer to Melchizedek in Hellenistic and Jewish sources. In the War of the Jews, Josephus designates him as a “Canaanite chief,” whereas the Antiquities of the Jews designates him as a cleric. Melchizedek is likened to the Logos, the priest of God, by Philo, who also praises his untutored priesthood.

The Second Book of Enoch, a Jewish text from the first century AD, presents an exceptional narrative concerning the conception of Melchizedek from Sofonim, the virgin wife of Nir, Noah’s brother. Following the demise of his mother, the young man arises from her fully formed and adorned with the emblem of the priesthood. Subsequently, the archangel Gabriel intervenes to deliver him from the invading Deluge.

Melchizedek is depicted in 11Q13 (11QMelch), one of several Dead Sea Scrolls, as a deity entity endowed with appellations customarily ascribed to God, such as “El” or “Elohim.” Information from Genesis is repeated in the Genesis Apocryphon.

Rabbinic literature attributes Melchizedek the role of Shem, the progeny of Noah, and designates him as a cleric responsible for imparting Torah to the Patriarchs. Whether Melchizedek was a native of Salem (Jerusalem) or an immigrant who came to serve God as a Kohen (priest) is the subject of debate.

In Christianity:

One hypothesis posits that Melchizedek, an imminent high priest, manifested himself to Abraham in the form of a pre-incarnate Christ, thus portending the future role of Jesus Christ. This notion is reinforced by the allusions in the book of Hebrews that draw a parallel between Jesus and Melchizedek, thereby accentuating his eternal and divine nature.

Melchizedek is profoundly associated with Jesus Christ in the Epistle to the Hebrews of the New Testament. His designation as a “eternal priest in the order of Melchizedek” is symbolic of the Messiah and the perpetual priesthood he embodies.

An alternative perspective posits that Melchizedek was a contemporaneous historical figure who ruled Salem as the rightful monarch. However, there is limited historical evidence to corroborate this claim.

At what age did Melchizedek pass away?

The age at which Melchizedek passed away is unknown due to the paucity of precise information in biblical sources concerning him. He is the person of mystery in the Bible. In the New Testament, his dual role as a priest and a monarch, as well as his distinctive relationship with Jesus Christ, have captivated both scholars and believers. As a consequence, Melchizedek is also referred to as the individual who was never born and never perished.

Conversely, if Melchizedek had been identified as Shem, his age at that moment would have been 465, whereas Abram would have been 75.

When contemplating the biblical significance of Melchizedek’s appearance, it is crucial to bear in mind that certain historical figures continue to elude understanding. The absence of precise details prompts individuals to further explore their religious convictions and value the depth of biblical narratives, in which ostensibly inconsequential figures can possess profound significance.