Hebrews 9:3

Behind the second curtain was a room called the Most Holy Place,

Study Bible

Behind the second curtain
The phrase "behind the second curtain" refers to the inner veil of the tabernacle, which separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, also known as the Holy of Holies. In the Greek, the word for "curtain" is "katapetasma," which signifies a veil or a screen. This curtain was a significant part of the tabernacle's design, as described in Exodus 26:31-33. It was made of fine linen and blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, with cherubim woven into it, symbolizing the separation between God and man due to sin. Theologically, this curtain represents the barrier that sin creates between humanity and the divine presence of God. In the New Testament context, the tearing of the temple veil at Christ's crucifixion (Matthew 27:51) symbolizes the removal of this barrier, granting believers direct access to God through Jesus Christ.

was a room
The "room" mentioned here is the innermost part of the tabernacle, the Most Holy Place. In the original Greek, the term used is "skēnē," which can mean tent or tabernacle. This room was not just a physical space but a sacred area that held profound spiritual significance. It was the earthly dwelling place of God's presence, where the high priest would enter once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) to offer sacrifices for the sins of the people (Leviticus 16). This annual event foreshadowed the ultimate atonement made by Christ, who entered the heavenly sanctuary once for all, securing eternal redemption for believers (Hebrews 9:12).

called the Most Holy Place
The "Most Holy Place," or "Hagia Hagion" in Greek, literally means "Holy of Holies." This was the most sacred area within the tabernacle and later the temple, signifying the utmost holiness and the presence of God Himself. It housed the Ark of the Covenant, which contained the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod that budded, and a jar of manna (Hebrews 9:4). The Most Holy Place was a type and shadow of the heavenly reality, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who is our High Priest and Mediator. Theologically, it represents the intimate fellowship and communion with God that is now available to believers through the new covenant established by Jesus' sacrificial death and resurrection. This access to the Most Holy Place is a profound privilege, emphasizing the transformative power of Christ's atonement and the believer's call to live a life of holiness and devotion.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies)
This was the innermost and most sacred area of the ancient Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem. It was separated by a veil and was where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. Only the high priest could enter, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement.

2. The Tabernacle
A portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, as described in the Hebrew Bible. It was a precursor to the Temple and had two main sections: the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place.

3. The High Priest
The chief religious leader of the Israelites, who alone was permitted to enter the Most Holy Place once a year to offer sacrifices for the atonement of the people's sins.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Separation
The veil symbolized the separation between a holy God and sinful humanity. Understanding this separation helps us appreciate the holiness of God and the seriousness of sin.

Christ as Our High Priest
Jesus, as our High Priest, entered the Most Holy Place once for all by His own blood, securing eternal redemption. This emphasizes the sufficiency and finality of Christ's sacrifice.

Access to God
With the tearing of the veil, believers now have direct access to God through Jesus Christ. This encourages us to approach God with confidence and reverence.

The Role of the Old Covenant
The Old Covenant rituals and structures, including the Most Holy Place, were a shadow of the things to come in Christ. This helps us understand the continuity and fulfillment of God's plan through Jesus.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of the Most Holy Place deepen your understanding of God's holiness and the seriousness of sin?

2. In what ways does Jesus' role as our High Priest change the way you approach God in prayer and worship?

3. How does the tearing of the temple veil at Jesus' death impact your view of access to God?

4. What are some practical ways you can live out the reality of having direct access to God in your daily life?

5. How can understanding the Old Covenant rituals enhance your appreciation for the New Covenant established through Jesus?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 26:33
This verse describes the construction of the Tabernacle and the veil that separates the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, providing context for the physical layout mentioned in Hebrews 9:3.

Leviticus 16
This chapter details the Day of Atonement, the only time the high priest could enter the Most Holy Place, highlighting the significance of the separation mentioned in Hebrews 9:3.

Matthew 27:51
This verse describes the tearing of the temple veil at the moment of Jesus' death, symbolizing the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, which is foreshadowed by the veil in Hebrews 9:3.