What does it mean that Melchizedek received tithes from Abraham?

When Abraham paid tithes to Melchizedek in Genesis 14:20, it symbolizes the acknowledgment of Melchizedek's superior priestly authority, foreshadowing Christ's superior role as our High Priest. This action conveys the theological concept of representation, which is further explained in Hebrews 7, emphasizing that Levi, who received tithes per the law, was in a sense subject to Melchizedek as he was in Abraham, thereby illustrating Christ's superiority to the Levitical priesthood. This teaching indicates that God's redemptive work is designed for His elect, uniting them with Christ, and that the blessings and righteousness secured through Christ extend beyond the confines of Jewish heritage.