The Order of Melchizedek
Here's a list of where Melchizedek is mentioned in the apocryphal texts you asked about. Melchizedek (/mɛlˈkɪzədɛk/; Biblical Hebrew: מַלְכִּי־צֶדֶק, romanized: malkī-ṣeḏeq, meaning "king of righteousness" or "my king is righteousness")—also transliterated as Melchisedech or Malki Tzedek—was the king of Salem and priest of El Elyon (often translated as "Most High YHVH").
Apocryphal Mentions of Melchizedek
Book of Jubilees
Jubilees 13:25 – Mentions Melchizedek in the context of Abram's encounters.Jubilees 13:26-27 – Describes Melchizedek receiving tithes from Abram.
Book of Jasher
Jasher 16:11 – Refers to Melchizedek as the king of Salem and priest of the Most High YHVH, who blesses Abram.Jasher 16:12-13 – Further mentions Abram giving tithes to Melchizedek.
Apocalypse of Abraham (Apocryphon of Abraham)
Chapter 13 – Melchizedek is often interpreted or alluded to as a figure of high priesthood or divine order, but specific mentions may vary by translation or interpretation.
Testament of Abraham
Chapter 14 – Contains a mention or allusion to Melchizedek, often as a high priestly figure.
Book of the Cave of Treasures
Melchizedek as Shem:
The text identifies Melchizedek as Shem, the son of Noah, and emphasizes his role as king of Salem (later Jerusalem) and priest of the Most High YHVH. This interpretation ties Melchizedek closely to the patriarchal lineage.
Blessing of Abram: Recounts the story of Melchizedek meeting and blessing Abram (Abraham) after Abram's victory, where Abram gives Melchizedek a tithe of the spoils, mirroring Genesis 14.Melchizedek's Priesthood: Highlights Melchizedek's role as a priest offering bread and wine, a symbol seen as a precursor to the Messiah's priesthood and the future sacrament.
Summary of Key Themes:
Lineage: Melchizedek is identified with Shem, connecting him to the lineage of Noah, underscoring his righteousness and role in priesthood.
Typology: His priesthood foreshadows the eternal priesthood of the Messiah, particularly through the bread and wine offering.
Blessing of Abraham: This event represents the transmission of spiritual authority and blessing.
The Book of the Cave of Treasures and similar apocryphal works expand upon the brief canonical mentions of Melchizedek, providing insights into early Messianic attempts to understand his role.
Canonical References to Melchizedek
Genesis 14:18-20
Melchizedek is introduced as the king of Salem and priest of the Most High YHVH. He blesses Abram and receives a tithe from him.
Psalm 110:4
This psalm, attributed to David, mentions Melchizedek in a prophetic context, stating, "The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind, 'You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.'"
These are the two primary references to Melchizedek in the Old Testament, highlighting his dual role as king and priest and his lasting significance in biblical narrative.
New Testament References (Primarily in Hebrews)
Hebrews 5:6
"You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek," referencing Psalm 110:4 and introducing the concept of Y'shua as a high priest in this order.
Hebrews 5:10
"And was designated by YHVH to be high priest in the order of Melchizedek."
Hebrews 6:20
"Where our forerunner, Y'shua, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek."
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