Hebrews 7:9

9 And (as it may be said) even Levi who received tithes paid tithes in Abraham:

Hebrews 7:9 Meaning and Commentary

Hebrews 7:9

And as l may so say
With truth, and with great propriety and pertinence:

Levi also who receiveth tithes;
or the Levites, who receive tithes according to the law of Moses from the people of Israel:

paid tithes in Abraham;
that is, to Melchizedek; and therefore Melchizedek must be greater than they, and his priesthood a more excellent one than theirs; since they who receive tithes from others gave tithes to him.

Hebrews 7:9 In-Context

7 And without all contradiction, that which is less is blessed by the better.

8 And here indeed, men that die receive tithes: but there, he hath witness that he liveth.

9 And (as it may be said) even Levi who received tithes paid tithes in Abraham:

10 For he was yet in the loins of his father when Melchisedech met him.

11 If then perfection was by the Levitical priesthood (for under it the people received the law), what further need was there that another priest should rise according to the order of Melchisedech: and not be called according to the order of Aaron?