What title is Melchizedek given in Genesis 14?
a) King of Canaan
b) King of Salem and priest of God Most High
c) King of Sodom
d) King of the Jordan Valley
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is b) King of Salem and priest of God Most High.
In Genesis 14, Melchizedek is introduced as the King of Salem and priest of God Most High. This brief mention is significant because it marks him as both a political and religious figure. He encounters Abram (later Abraham) after Abram’s victory in rescuing his nephew Lot from captivity. Melchizedek blesses Abram, saying, “Blessed be Abram of God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth, and blessed be God Most High, who has delivered your enemies into your hand.” In return, Abram gives him a tenth of the spoils of war. This interaction is unique because Melchizedek is portrayed as a priest of the true God, long before the establishment of the Levitical priesthood, which would later be central to the Israelite religion.
The name “Salem” is often interpreted as a reference to Jerusalem, though this connection is debated by scholars. His role as a priest of God Most High suggests that he had a connection with the worship of the one true God, which sets him apart from other leaders mentioned in Genesis. In addition, his blessing of Abram symbolizes a recognition of Abram’s righteousness and God’s hand in his success.
Melchizedek’s dual role as both king and priest makes him a unique figure in the Bible, symbolizing peace and righteousness, as “Salem” is thought to mean “peace.” The significance of his priesthood is further emphasized in the New Testament, particularly in the book of Hebrews, where Melchizedek is compared to Jesus Christ in terms of eternal priesthood, not based on genealogy but on divine appointment.