The term "Most Holy Things" refers to items, offerings, and rituals within the Old Testament that were set apart for God and held the highest level of sanctity. These items were integral to the worship and sacrificial system established by God for the Israelites and were primarily associated with the Tabernacle and later the Temple.

Biblical References and Context

The concept of "Most Holy Things" is rooted in the Levitical laws and the instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai. In Leviticus 2:3, the grain offering is described as "most holy" among the offerings made by fire to the LORD. Similarly, Leviticus 6:25-29 outlines the sin offering as "most holy," emphasizing the sanctity and specific handling required for these offerings.

The "Most Holy Place," or the Holy of Holies, within the Tabernacle and Temple, housed the Ark of the Covenant and was the most sacred space, accessible only by the High Priest once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). This is detailed in Leviticus 16:2-34, where the High Priest would enter to make atonement for the sins of the people.

Priestly Duties and Regulations

The priests, particularly the descendants of Aaron, were entrusted with the care and handling of the Most Holy Things. Numbers 18:9-10 states, "This shall be yours from the most holy offerings, reserved from the fire: every offering of theirs, every grain offering and sin offering and guilt offering, which they render to Me, shall be most holy for you and your sons." This passage underscores the exclusive role of the priesthood in managing these sacred items.

The handling of the Most Holy Things required strict adherence to purity laws and rituals. Any deviation or mishandling could result in severe consequences, as seen in the account of Nadab and Abihu, who offered unauthorized fire before the LORD and were consumed by fire as a result (Leviticus 10:1-2).

Symbolism and Theological Significance

The Most Holy Things symbolize the holiness and separateness of God, serving as a constant reminder to the Israelites of His divine presence and the need for purity and reverence in worship. The sanctity of these items and spaces pointed to the ultimate holiness of God and the necessity of atonement for sin.

In the New Testament, the concept of holiness and the Most Holy Things finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is described as the ultimate High Priest and the perfect sacrifice. Hebrews 9:11-12 states, "But when Christ came as high priest of the good things that have come, He went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not made by hands, that is, not of this creation. He did not enter by the blood of goats and calves, but He entered the Most Holy Place once for all by His own blood, thus securing eternal redemption."

Conclusion

The Most Holy Things in the Old Testament serve as a profound testament to the holiness of God and the seriousness of sin. They foreshadow the redemptive work of Christ, who fulfills the law and provides believers with direct access to God through His sacrifice. The reverence and care required for these sacred items reflect the broader biblical theme of God's holiness and the call for His people to be holy as He is holy (1 Peter 1:16).