blessing (2)
The book of Genesis 14:18-20 (NABRE) describes Melchizedek blessing Abraham. This blessing is foundational in the Old Testament as it establishes a relationship between Abraham and God that is extended to Abraham’s descendants. So what exactly is it?
In Greek and Latin, blessing ultimately has to do with speaking well of, but the Hebrew word בָּרַךְ (barak) has other meanings in addition to praising that are at play here. It comes from a root that can mean “kneel” or “cause to kneel,” and it’s in this meaning that we gain some insight into what happened when Melchizedek, the first priest of God, blessed Abraham.
Through this exchange, Melchizedek is essentially placing Abraham into formal service of God. Abraham kneels to God and from that also receives back from God the benefits that come from serving. Consider where God has blessed you. How might your blessings represent an opportunity to serve God?
related topic: blessing (1)
you also may like our study of the Letter to the Hebrews (digital only)
Many Christians struggle to understand one of the central mysteries of our faith: how Jesus can be both human and divine at the same time. The Letter to the Hebrews: An Explanation of the Mechanism of Our Salvation, an 18-lesson Catholic Bible study with an imprimatur, offers an in-depth look at the way in which Jesus’ dual nature allows for the salvation of humanity. The Letter to the Hebrews is designed to provide information that will encourage Christians to remain faithful. Click here to view a sample of the first lesson.
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