Book of Hebrews - Chapter 7 - Verse 13

When discussing the verse "For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar," it is important to understand its significance in the context of the Old Testament priesthood. This verse from the book of Hebrews emphasizes that Jesus came from a different lineage than the Levitical priesthood, which was established under the law of Moses. The Levitical priests served at the altar in the tabernacle and later in the temple, offering sacrifices on behalf of the people. However, Jesus, being from the tribe of Judah, was not a part of this priesthood. This distinction highlights the unique role Jesus plays as the ultimate high priest, offering himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of humanity once and for all. By fulfilling the requirements of the Old Testament law in a new and profound way, Jesus brings a new covenant that provides redemption and salvation to all who believe in him.

In this verse, the author of Hebrews discusses the priesthood of Jesus Christ in comparison to the Levitical priesthood. The phrase "For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe" highlights the fact that Jesus, as the ultimate High Priest, does not come from the tribe of Levi like the Levitical priests. Instead, he comes from the tribe of Judah, as prophesied in the Old Testament (Genesis 49:10). This distinction is important as it emphasizes the superiority of Jesus' priesthood over the Levitical priesthood. The second part of the verse, "of which no man gave attendance at the altar," further underscores this point by pointing out that Jesus did not serve as a priest in the earthly tabernacle like the Levitical priests. Rather, he offered himself as the perfect sacrifice on the heavenly altar, once and for all, for the sins of all humanity. This theological interpretation highlights the fulfillment of the Old Testament sacrificial system in Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate and eternal High Priest.