In the biblical narrative, the concept of holiness is central to understanding the relationship between God and His people. Holy things, as described in Scripture, are those that are set apart for God's purposes and are to be treated with reverence and respect. This entry explores the significance of holy things in the Bible, highlighting their role in worship, community, and personal devotion.

1. Definition and Nature of Holiness

Holiness, in the biblical sense, refers to the state of being set apart for God. It is a fundamental attribute of God Himself, as seen in passages like Isaiah 6:3, where the seraphim proclaim, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth." . Holy things, therefore, are those that are consecrated to God and reflect His divine nature.

2. Holy Objects and Places

Throughout the Old Testament, various objects and places are designated as holy. The Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem are prime examples. These structures were meticulously designed according to God's instructions and served as the dwelling place of His presence among the Israelites. Exodus 40:9 states, "Take the anointing oil and anoint the tabernacle and everything in it; consecrate it and all its furnishings, and it will be holy." .

The Ark of the Covenant, another sacred object, symbolized God's covenant with Israel and His presence among them. Its holiness was so profound that only the Levites were permitted to carry it, and any unauthorized contact resulted in severe consequences, as illustrated in 2 Samuel 6:6-7.

3. Holy Times and Festivals

The Bible also emphasizes the importance of holy times and festivals. The Sabbath, instituted in Genesis 2:3, is a day set apart for rest and worship, reflecting God's own rest after creation. Leviticus 23 outlines various feasts and holy days, such as Passover and the Day of Atonement, which were to be observed with specific rituals and sacrifices, underscoring their sacred nature.

4. Holy People and Priests

God's call to holiness extends to His people. In Leviticus 19:2, the LORD commands, "Speak to the entire congregation of the Israelites and tell them: ‘Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy.'" . The Israelites were to live distinctively, adhering to God's laws and reflecting His holiness in their conduct.

The priesthood, particularly the Levites, held a unique role in maintaining the sanctity of worship and the holy things of God. They were consecrated for service, as described in Exodus 29, and were responsible for offering sacrifices and interceding on behalf of the people.

5. The New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the concept of holiness is expanded through the work of Jesus Christ. Believers are called to be a "royal priesthood, a holy nation" (1 Peter 2:9), indicating that holiness is not confined to specific objects or rituals but is a calling for all who follow Christ. The indwelling of the Holy Spirit makes each believer a temple of God, as stated in 1 Corinthians 6:19, "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have received from God?" .

6. Reverence for Holy Things

The Bible consistently warns against the profanation of holy things. In Ezekiel 22:26, the priests are rebuked for failing to distinguish between the holy and the common, highlighting the importance of maintaining the sanctity of what is dedicated to God. The New Testament echoes this sentiment, urging believers to live lives worthy of their calling and to treat the things of God with the utmost respect.

In summary, holy things in the Bible serve as tangible reminders of God's presence, His covenant, and His call to holiness. They are integral to worship and community life, and their reverence is a reflection of the believer's devotion to God.