The Inner Sanctuary, often referred to as the "Most Holy Place" or "Holy of Holies," is a significant element in the biblical description of the tabernacle and the temple, serving as the earthly dwelling place of God's presence among His people. This sacred space is central to the worship and religious life of ancient Israel, symbolizing the holiness and majesty of God.

Biblical Description and Construction

The Inner Sanctuary is first described in the context of the tabernacle, as detailed in the book of Exodus. God provides Moses with specific instructions for its construction on Mount Sinai. The sanctuary is to be a perfect cube, measuring ten cubits on each side, and is separated from the Holy Place by a veil. This veil is made of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely twisted linen, with cherubim skillfully woven into it (Exodus 26:31-33).

In Solomon's Temple, the Inner Sanctuary is similarly constructed as a perfect cube, but its dimensions are expanded to twenty cubits on each side. The walls and floor are overlaid with pure gold, and the room houses the Ark of the Covenant, which contains the stone tablets of the Law given to Moses (1 Kings 6:19-22).

Significance and Symbolism

The Inner Sanctuary represents the ultimate meeting place between God and man, a place of divine presence and revelation. It is here that the Shekinah glory of God dwells above the mercy seat, between the cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant (Exodus 25:22). The sanctuary's inaccessibility to the general populace underscores the holiness of God and the separation caused by sin.

Only the high priest could enter the Inner Sanctuary, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). This annual entrance was accompanied by the blood of a sacrificial offering, which the high priest sprinkled on the mercy seat to atone for the sins of the people (Leviticus 16:2-34). This ritual highlights the necessity of atonement and the seriousness of approaching a holy God.

Theological Implications

The Inner Sanctuary foreshadows the coming of Jesus Christ, who, as the ultimate High Priest, entered the heavenly sanctuary once for all by His own blood, securing eternal redemption (Hebrews 9:11-12). The tearing of the temple veil at the moment of Christ's death signifies the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, granting believers direct access to the Father through the Son (Matthew 27:51).

In Christian theology, the Inner Sanctuary serves as a powerful symbol of God's holiness, the gravity of sin, and the profound grace offered through Jesus Christ. It reminds believers of the privilege and responsibility of approaching God with reverence and awe, made possible by the sacrificial work of Christ.