Joseph Smith Translation of Genesis 14:25-40; Alma 13:14-19; Doctrine and Covenants 84:14, 107:1-4; and the Institute Student Manual commentary for Genesis 14:18, "Who Was Melchizedek?" (pg. 67-68).
Question: Who was Melchizedek?
Answer: After reading all of these scriptures pertaining to Melchizedek I believe he was a king of peace and righteousness. He was a man of faith who truly believed in righteousness. Abraham paid tithes (one-tenth of income) to Melchizedek. Melchizedek was king over Salem and these people in Salem were full of iniquity, abominations, and wickedness. He attempted to preach repentance unto his people, but they did not listen nor repent.
Abraham received his priesthood from Melchizedek (D&C 84:14). The most high priesthood was named after Melchizedek to avoid repetition of "Holy Priesthood, after the Order of the Son of God". Melchizedek was a great high priest and that is why is highest priesthood is named after him. When Melchizedek was a child he feared God and stopped the mouths of lions and quenched the violence of fire. Now I have a better understanding of why the highest priesthood is called the Melchizedek priesthood.
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