In biblical terms, the concept of "sanctuary" holds significant theological and historical importance. The term generally refers to a sacred or holy place set apart for the worship of God. In the Old Testament, the sanctuary is most prominently represented by the Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem.

The Tabernacle, described in detail in the book of Exodus, was a portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wanderings in the wilderness. It was the place where God dwelled among His people and where the Israelites offered sacrifices and worship. Exodus 25:8-9 states, "And they are to make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them. You must make it according to all that I show you—the design of the tabernacle as well as the design of all its furnishings."

The Temple, built by Solomon in Jerusalem, became the permanent sanctuary for the Israelites. It was the central place of worship and the location of the Ark of the Covenant. The Temple was a symbol of God's presence and His covenant with Israel. In 1 Kings 8:10-11 , during the dedication of the Temple, it is recorded, "And when the priests came out of the Holy Place, the cloud filled the house of the LORD, so that the priests could not stand there to minister because of the cloud; for the glory of the LORD filled the house of the LORD."

In the New Testament, the concept of sanctuary evolves with the coming of Jesus Christ. The physical temple is no longer the sole focus of God's presence. Instead, Jesus Himself is seen as the ultimate sanctuary. In John 2:19-21 , Jesus speaks of His body as a temple: "Jesus answered, 'Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up again.' But the Jews replied, 'It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and You are going to raise it up in three days?' But Jesus was speaking about the temple of His body."

Furthermore, the New Testament teaches that believers themselves become a sanctuary for the Holy Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 6:19 , Paul writes, "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own."

Justice

Justice is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting God's character and His expectations for human conduct. In the Scriptures, justice is often associated with righteousness, fairness, and the upholding of moral and ethical standards.

In the Old Testament, justice is a fundamental aspect of God's law given to Israel. The Mosaic Law contains numerous provisions to ensure justice in society, particularly for the vulnerable and marginalized. Deuteronomy 16:20 commands, "Pursue justice, and justice alone, so that you may live, and you may possess the land the LORD your God is giving you."

The prophets frequently called Israel back to the practice of justice, condemning social injustices and urging repentance. Micah 6:8 succinctly summarizes God's requirement: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?"

In the New Testament, justice continues to be a vital concern. Jesus' teachings emphasize the spirit of the law and the importance of justice, mercy, and faithfulness. In Matthew 23:23 , Jesus rebukes the Pharisees, saying, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! You pay tithes of mint, dill, and cumin, but you have disregarded the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former."

The apostle Paul also underscores the importance of justice in the life of believers. In Romans 12:17-19 , he writes, "Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Carefully consider what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone. Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: 'Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.'"

Ultimately, the Bible presents God as the ultimate judge who will bring about perfect justice. Revelation 20:12 describes the final judgment: "And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne. And there were open books, and one of them was the book of life. And the dead were judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books."