Sinossi

This book explodes the thesis that there was an extensive or coherent Melchizedek tradition at Qumran, still less that the Scrolls had any influence on the Letter to the Hebrews. Melchizedek's appearance in the Letter is limited in extent and purpose. He is there to give scriptural validation to Jesus' priesthood and etemity, no more, no less. Other models of priesthood are if anything more important. Aaron provides the pattern for the atoning priest, but it is Moses, above all, who permeates the text. Not only is he the only possible blueprint for the merciful and compassionate priest, he unites in himself the features of the other models. In taking up these different priestly models, the author worked from his concept of Jesus' death as a sacrifice back to the Old Testament rather than vice versa. Is it a question of too many priests spoiling the sacrifice? Far from it. Each model has its own valuable contribution to make, and all are held together in the figure of Moses, prophet, priest and king.