Topical Encyclopedia
The Temple in Jerusalem, extensively renovated and expanded by Herod the Great, was a central place of worship and sacrifice for the Jewish people during the time of Jesus. One of the most significant features of this Temple was the inner curtain, also known as the veil, which separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, or the Holy of Holies. This curtain was a symbol of the separation between God and humanity, as only the high priest could enter the Holy of Holies, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur).
The Gospels record a profound event involving this curtain at the time of Jesus' crucifixion. According to the Gospel of Matthew, "At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth quaked and the rocks were split" (
Matthew 27:51). This tearing of the curtain is also mentioned in the Gospels of Mark and Luke, emphasizing its significance. Mark states, "And the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom" (
Mark 15:38), while Luke records, "And the curtain of the temple was torn down the middle" (
Luke 23:45).
The tearing of the curtain at the moment of Jesus' death is rich in theological symbolism. It signifies the end of the old covenant and the establishment of a new covenant through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. The tearing from top to bottom suggests a divine act, indicating that the barrier between God and humanity has been removed through Christ's atoning sacrifice. This event symbolizes the opening of direct access to God for all believers, no longer mediated by the high priest or confined to the Temple rituals.
The Epistle to the Hebrews elaborates on this theme, explaining that Jesus, as the great high priest, has entered the heavenly sanctuary on behalf of believers.
Hebrews 10:19-20 states, "Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way opened for us through the curtain of His body" . This passage underscores the belief that Jesus' death has inaugurated a new way of relating to God, one that is based on faith and grace rather than the law and ritual.
The historical and spiritual significance of the torn curtain continues to be a profound element of Christian theology, representing the transformative power of Christ's death and the new relationship between God and humanity.
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Matthew 27:51And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in two from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent;
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Resources
Was it God's desire for Israel to worship Him in a temple in Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning and significance of the Temple Mount? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of Ezekiel's temple? | GotQuestions.orgTemple: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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