In the biblical context, holy objects are items set apart for sacred use, often associated with worship, rituals, and the presence of God. These objects are considered consecrated and are treated with reverence and respect. The concept of holiness in objects is deeply rooted in the idea of separation from the common or profane, dedicated solely to the service and glory of God.

The Tabernacle and Temple Furnishings

The Tabernacle, and later the Temple, housed several holy objects that played a central role in Israelite worship. Among these were the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, the Golden Lampstand, and the Altar of Incense.

· Ark of the Covenant: The Ark was the most sacred object, representing God's throne on earth. It contained the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a jar of manna (Hebrews 9:4). The Ark was kept in the Most Holy Place, and only the high priest could approach it once a year on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:2).

· Table of Showbread: This table held the Bread of the Presence, which was placed before the Lord as a perpetual offering by the Israelites (Exodus 25:30). It symbolized God's provision and fellowship with His people.

· Golden Lampstand (Menorah): The lampstand provided light in the Holy Place and was a symbol of God's presence and guidance (Exodus 25:31-40).

· Altar of Incense: Positioned before the veil separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, this altar was used for burning incense, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God (Exodus 30:1-10).

Priestly Garments and Instruments

The garments worn by the priests, particularly the high priest, were considered holy. These included the ephod, breastplate, robe, tunic, turban, and sash, each with specific symbolic meanings and functions (Exodus 28:2-4). The Urim and Thummim, used for divination, were also part of the high priest's attire (Exodus 28:30).

Sacrificial Implements

Various implements used in the sacrificial system were deemed holy, including the altar of burnt offering, basins, forks, and firepans (Exodus 27:1-8). These items were consecrated for the purpose of offering sacrifices to God, facilitating atonement and worship.

Holy Anointing Oil and Incense

The anointing oil and incense used in the Tabernacle and Temple were made according to specific divine instructions and were considered holy. The anointing oil was used to consecrate priests and sacred objects (Exodus 30:22-33), while the incense was burned as a fragrant offering to the Lord (Exodus 30:34-38).

The Sabbath and Holy Days

While not physical objects, the Sabbath and various holy days were set apart as sacred times. The Sabbath was a day of rest and worship, a sign of the covenant between God and Israel (Exodus 31:13). Festivals such as Passover, Pentecost, and the Feast of Tabernacles were also considered holy, commemorating God's acts of salvation and provision (Leviticus 23).

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the concept of holy objects shifts with the coming of Christ. Jesus Himself is seen as the fulfillment of the Temple and its furnishings, embodying the presence of God among His people (John 1:14). Believers are described as the temple of the Holy Spirit, with their bodies and lives consecrated to God (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

The early church did not emphasize physical holy objects as much as the spiritual reality they represented. The focus was on the transformative work of Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, which sanctifies believers and sets them apart for God's purposes.