What is the meaning of Hebrews 9:3? Behind the second curtain • The tabernacle had two divisions separated by curtains (Exodus 26:31-33). • This “second curtain” marked a clear boundary, set by God, that no ordinary priest or Israelite could cross (Leviticus 16:2). • By mentioning it, Hebrews highlights the holiness of God and the severity of human sin that requires such separation (Isaiah 59:2). • The writer is preparing us to see how Jesus, our High Priest, passes through what no one else could (Hebrews 6:19-20). was a room • Physical space mattered in Israel’s worship: every piece of furniture, measurement, and placement carried meaning (Exodus 25:9). • A distinct “room” teaches that meeting with God is never casual; it is on His terms (Exodus 33:20). • The tabernacle pattern was “a copy and shadow of the heavenly sanctuary” (Hebrews 8:5), pointing beyond itself to a greater reality. • By noting the room’s existence, the text underscores God’s gracious willingness to dwell among His people, yet without compromising His holiness (2 Chronicles 6:18). called the Most Holy Place • Also known as the Holy of Holies, it housed the ark of the covenant, the mercy seat, and the cherubim (Exodus 25:21-22; 1 Kings 8:6-7). • Only the high priest could enter, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement, bearing sacrificial blood for his own sins and for the nation (Leviticus 16:11-15; Hebrews 9:7). • The name “Most Holy Place” signals absolute purity—sin cannot survive there (Habakkuk 1:13). • Hebrews later teaches that Jesus entered the “greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made by hands” to secure eternal redemption (Hebrews 9:11-12). • The veil of this earthly room was torn at Christ’s death (Matthew 27:51), proclaiming new, direct access for all who trust Him (Hebrews 10:19-22). summary Hebrews 9:3 draws attention to the severe separation between God and humanity symbolized by the second curtain, the distinct room, and its title, “Most Holy Place.” These details remind us of God’s unapproachable holiness under the old covenant while setting the stage for the good news that Jesus, our sinless High Priest, has opened the way into God’s presence for everyone who believes. |
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