The term "Sanctuary Area" in the Bible refers to the sacred space designated for worship and the presence of God, primarily within the context of the Tabernacle and the Temple in Jerusalem. This area is central to the religious life of Israel and holds significant theological and symbolic meaning throughout the Scriptures.

Old Testament Context

1. The Tabernacle: The concept of the sanctuary begins with the Tabernacle, a portable dwelling place for God among the Israelites during their wilderness journey. In Exodus 25:8, God commands, "And they are to make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them." The Tabernacle is divided into the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies), with the latter housing the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God's throne on earth.

2. The Temple: Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem becomes the permanent sanctuary for Israel. In 1 Kings 6, the construction of the Temple is described in detail, emphasizing its grandeur and sanctity. The Temple serves as the central place of worship, sacrifice, and divine presence. The Most Holy Place, like in the Tabernacle, is where the Ark of the Covenant resides, and only the High Priest may enter once a year on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:2).

3. Symbolism and Function: The sanctuary area is a place of holiness, set apart for God's presence. It is where sacrifices are offered, prayers are made, and God's law is taught. The sanctuary represents God's covenant relationship with Israel and His desire to dwell among His people.

New Testament Context

1. Jesus and the Temple: In the New Testament, Jesus' relationship with the Temple is significant. He is presented as the fulfillment of the Temple's purpose. In John 2:19, Jesus declares, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," referring to His body as the true temple. This indicates a shift from a physical sanctuary to a spiritual one, centered in Christ.

2. The Church as Sanctuary: The New Testament expands the concept of the sanctuary to include the body of believers. In 1 Corinthians 3:16, Paul writes, "Do you not know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?" This reflects the idea that the church, as the body of Christ, is the new dwelling place of God on earth.

3. Heavenly Sanctuary: The Book of Hebrews speaks of a heavenly sanctuary, where Christ serves as the High Priest. Hebrews 8:1-2 states, "We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, and who ministers in the sanctuary and true tabernacle set up by the Lord, not by man." This heavenly sanctuary is the ultimate fulfillment of the earthly types and shadows.

Theological Significance

The sanctuary area is a profound symbol of God's holiness, His desire to dwell with His people, and the means by which He provides atonement and reconciliation. It underscores the separation between the holy and the profane, the need for mediation through sacrifice, and ultimately points to Jesus Christ as the perfect High Priest and sacrifice. The transition from a physical sanctuary to a spiritual one in the New Testament highlights the inclusivity of God's presence among all believers, transcending ethnic and geographical boundaries.