What is the Holy of Holies in the Bible?

Definition and Terminology

The term “Holy of Holies,” also called the “Most Holy Place,” refers to the innermost sanctuary of the Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem. In Hebrew, it is often rendered as “qōdeš haqodāšîm,” meaning “the holiest place,” set apart for the manifest presence of God.

Biblical Foundation

In the Tabernacle constructed under Moses’ leadership, the Holy of Holies was separated from the rest of the sanctuary by a special veil. The Ark of the Covenant was placed inside this sacred chamber, signifying the covenant between God and His people (Exodus 26:33: “Hang the veil from the clasps, and place the ark of the Testimony behind the veil…”).

Construction and Furnishings

1. Ark of the Covenant: The Ark contained the stone tablets of the Law, Aaron’s rod that budded, and a jar of manna (cf. Hebrews 9:4). It was overlaid with gold and covered by the Mercy Seat, flanked by two golden cherubim (Exodus 25:18–22).

2. Veil of Separation: A specifically woven curtain separated the Holy of Holies from the Holy Place. The veil was crafted from fine linen and richly embroidered with cherubim (Exodus 26:31).

Access and Priestly Duties

Only the high priest could enter the Holy of Holies, and this occurred once each year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). Leviticus 16 details the significance of this annual entrance, including sacrifices and ritual cleansing to atone for the sins of the nation. The high priest would sprinkle blood on the Mercy Seat atop the Ark of the Covenant to make atonement for himself and the people (Leviticus 16:14–15).

Historical Development

1. Tabernacle Era: During Israel’s wilderness journeys, the movable Tabernacle housed the Holy of Holies. Archaeological explorations of the Sinai region have revealed possible encampment sites consistent with the biblical timeline.

2. Solomon’s Temple: King Solomon built the First Temple in Jerusalem, which served as the permanent house of worship (1 Kings 6–7). According to 1 Kings 8:6 (BSB: “Then the priests brought the ark of the LORD’s covenant into its place…”), the ark was placed in the inner sanctuary, reiterating its central place in Israel’s worship.

3. Second Temple Period: After the Babylonian exile, the Temple was rebuilt (ca. 516 BC). Historical records from the writings of the Jewish historian Josephus (Antiquities of the Jews, Book XV) note Herod’s significant renovations, including the enlargement of the Temple precincts.

Significance in the New Testament

1. The Tearing of the Veil: At the death of Jesus, the Temple veil was torn from top to bottom (Matthew 27:51). This event symbolizes direct access to God through Christ, removing the separation once ritually exclusive to the high priest.

2. Fulfillment in Christ: Hebrews 9:11–12 describes Jesus as the ultimate High Priest who entered “the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made by hands.” By His own blood, He achieved eternal redemption, rendering the need for repeated animal sacrifices obsolete.

3. Believers as God’s Temple: In the present era, believers collectively form “the temple of the Holy Spirit” (cf. 1 Corinthians 6:19). The Holy of Holies thus foreshadows a more intimate relationship with God made possible through Christ.

Archaeological and Textual Corroboration

1. Dead Sea Scrolls: Discovered in the mid-20th century, these scrolls provide valuable manuscripts, affirming the consistent transmission of Old Testament passages describing the Tabernacle and Temple services.

2. Temple Mount Excavations: Geological and archaeological studies of Jerusalem’s Temple Mount area reveal layers of construction and destruction that align with biblical accounts, including cycles of rebuilding after invasions.

3. Ancient Writings: Josephus’ writings and references in the Mishnah record details about Temple life and worship practices. They corroborate the specific, sacred duties associated with the Holy of Holies.

Symbolism and Theological Themes

1. God’s Presence: The Holy of Holies represented the earthly dwelling place of God’s presence, emphasizing His holiness and the necessity of proper worship.

2. Atonement and Sacrifice: The solemn rituals underscore humanity’s need for atonement. These foreshadow the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who grants true reconciliation with God.

3. Reverence and Approachability: Ancient Israel viewed the Holy of Holies with awe; only the high priest dared enter, and only under strict regulations. Yet the New Testament revelation shows that God desires fellowship with humanity, ultimately fulfilled in Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice.

Practical and Devotional Reflections

Today, references to the Holy of Holies remind believers of the profound reverence and awe due to God, alongside gratitude for the open access granted through Christ. It underscores themes of holiness, sacrificial love, and the believer’s call to draw near with confidence (Hebrews 10:19–22).

Conclusion

The Holy of Holies stands as a central concept of Israelite worship, richly illustrating God’s holiness, humanity’s need for atonement, and the profound transformation brought by the life, death, and resurrection of Christ. Evidence from Scripture, archaeological findings, and historical writings confirm its significance within God’s redemptive plan, culminating in a direct, unimpeded relationship with the Creator.