Abstract: Discusses the figure of Melchizedek in Genesis 14: 18–20 and Psalm 110: 4. Melchizedek is described as both a king and a priest and could therefore provide a model or precedent for a ruling high priest. After a review of scholarship on both passages, the conclusion is that Melchizedek is a figure of sacral monarchy, not of ruling priesthood. He, therefore, provides ideological support not for a ruling high priesthood but for the Israelites’ own sacral monarchy.

Keywords: Genesis 14: 18–20, Melchizedek, Psalm 110: 4,