The concept of the Sanctuary and the Veil holds significant theological and symbolic importance within the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the Old Testament Tabernacle and the Temple in Jerusalem. These elements are central to understanding the nature of worship, the holiness of God, and the relationship between God and His people.

The Sanctuary

The Sanctuary, often referred to as the Tabernacle in the wilderness and later the Temple in Jerusalem, served as the dwelling place of God among His people, Israel. The instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle are detailed in the book of Exodus. God commanded Moses, "And they are to make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them" (Exodus 25:8). The Tabernacle was a portable structure, reflecting the nomadic lifestyle of the Israelites during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.

The Sanctuary was divided into three main areas: the Outer Court, the Holy Place, and the Most Holy Place (or Holy of Holies). The Outer Court contained the altar of burnt offering and the bronze basin. The Holy Place housed the table of showbread, the golden lampstand, and the altar of incense. The Most Holy Place, the innermost part of the Sanctuary, contained the Ark of the Covenant, which represented the throne of God on earth.

The Temple in Jerusalem, built by King Solomon, was a more permanent structure that followed the basic layout of the Tabernacle. It became the central place of worship for the Israelites and the focal point of their religious life. The Temple was later rebuilt after the Babylonian exile, known as the Second Temple, and underwent significant renovations under King Herod.

The Veil

The Veil, or curtain, was a significant feature within the Sanctuary, separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. It was made of fine linen and blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, with cherubim skillfully woven into it (Exodus 26:31-33). The Veil symbolized the separation between a holy God and sinful humanity, emphasizing the need for atonement and purification before entering God's presence.

Only the high priest was permitted to enter the Most Holy Place, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). On this day, the high priest would offer sacrifices for his own sins and the sins of the people, sprinkling the blood of the sacrifice on the mercy seat of the Ark of the Covenant (Leviticus 16:2-34).

The tearing of the Veil at the moment of Jesus' death is a pivotal event recorded in the New Testament. "And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, He yielded up His spirit. At that moment the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom" (Matthew 27:50-51). This act signified the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, granting believers direct access to God through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The tearing of the Veil symbolizes the fulfillment of the Old Covenant and the establishment of the New Covenant, where Christ serves as the ultimate High Priest and mediator.

The Sanctuary and the Veil thus serve as profound symbols of God's holiness, the seriousness of sin, and the redemptive work of Christ, which allows believers to enter into a direct and personal relationship with God.