Biblical Context:
The meeting between Melchizedek and Abraham is a significant event recorded in the Book of Genesis, specifically in Genesis 14:17-20. This encounter occurs after Abraham's victorious return from defeating the coalition of kings led by Chedorlaomer, who had taken his nephew Lot captive. The narrative is set in the Valley of Shaveh, also known as the King's Valley.

Scriptural Account:
Genesis 14:17-20 states: "After Abram returned from defeating Chedorlaomer and the kings allied with him, the king of Sodom came out to meet him in the Valley of Shaveh (that is, the King’s Valley). Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God Most High, and he blessed Abram, saying: 'Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. And blessed be God Most High, who has delivered your enemies into your hand.' Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything."

Melchizedek:
Melchizedek is introduced as the king of Salem and a priest of God Most High (El Elyon). His dual role as both king and priest is unique and significant, as it prefigures the later understanding of the Messiah as both King and High Priest. The name "Melchizedek" is often interpreted to mean "king of righteousness," and "Salem" is commonly associated with Jerusalem, suggesting a connection to peace.

Theological Significance:
The meeting between Melchizedek and Abraham holds deep theological implications. Melchizedek's blessing of Abraham and his offering of bread and wine have been seen as a foreshadowing of the Eucharist in Christian theology. The act of Abraham giving Melchizedek a tenth of everything is considered the first biblical instance of tithing, establishing a precedent for the practice of giving a portion of one's earnings to God.

Typology and Christology:
In the New Testament, the figure of Melchizedek is further explored in the Epistle to the Hebrews. Hebrews 7:1-3 describes Melchizedek as "without father or mother, without genealogy, without beginning of days or end of life, resembling the Son of God, he remains a priest forever." This passage highlights the typological connection between Melchizedek and Jesus Christ, emphasizing the eternal and superior priesthood of Christ, who is "a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek" (Hebrews 7:17).

Historical and Cultural Context:
The historical identity of Melchizedek has been the subject of much scholarly debate. Some Jewish traditions identify him with Shem, the son of Noah, while others see him as a Canaanite priest-king who worshiped the true God. The cultural context of the narrative suggests a time when city-states were ruled by kings who also held religious authority, a common practice in the ancient Near East.

Implications for Abraham:
The encounter with Melchizedek reinforces Abraham's status as a man chosen and blessed by God. The blessing pronounced by Melchizedek acknowledges God's role in Abraham's victory and affirms the divine promise of protection and prosperity. This meeting also underscores the recognition of Abraham's God by other monotheistic worshipers in the region, highlighting the universality of God's sovereignty.

Conclusion:
The meeting of Melchizedek and Abraham is a profound moment in biblical history, rich with theological and typological significance. It serves as a precursor to the understanding of Christ's eternal priesthood and the practice of tithing, while also affirming the divine blessing upon Abraham and his descendants.