Melchisidech

by Paul Turner

From this little story came a big name that Christians sometimes hear in their public prayer. The reason has to do with the New Testament Letter to the Hebrews, which presents Melchisedech in its treatment of Psalm 110. The psalm recalls the event from Genesis by naming Israel’s king a priest forever, like Melchisedech. The Letter to the Hebrews applies this image to Christ, calling him God’s eternal high priest (5:10; 6:20; 7:15–22). Hebrews further points out that “Melchisedech” means “king of righteousness” and that “king of Salem” means “king of peace” (7:1–3), both images of Jesus’ ministry. Furthermore, Melchisedech appeared in the Book of Genesis without parents or descendants, making his mysterious arrival and departure a symbol of Jesus.

In the early centuries of Christianity, the bread and wine that Melchisedech offered were thought to foreshadow the Eucharist. This is one reason why the first eucharistic prayer includes the prayer, “[Father,] look with favor on these offerings and accept them as once you accepted … the bread and wine offered by your priest Melchisedech.”

Christians, then, see in the story from Genesis themes that prefigure our belief in the eternity of Christ, his mission of peace and righteousness and the offering of the Eucharist.

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Paul Turner, pastor of St. Munchin Parish in Cameron, MO, holds a doctorate in sacramental theology from Sant' Anselmo University in Rome.