Hebrews 9:3 (KJV)

What does Hebrews 9:3 mean?

Hebrews 9:3 describes how, behind the second curtain in the ancient tabernacle, there was a special inner room called the "Holiest of all" or the Most Holy Place. This verse points out the physical layout of the tabernacle, highlighting the separation between the outer and innermost sacred spaces.

The writer of Hebrews is explaining to Jewish-background believers how the old system of worship worked, especially the structure of the tabernacle used in Israel's early history. The "second veil" refers to the curtain that divided the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, where only the high priest could enter once a year. This sets the stage for later verses that discuss the significance of Jesus' work in relation to these sacred spaces.

The Greek behind Hebrews 9:3

• "καταπέτασμα" (katapetasma, G2665) means "veil" or "curtain," and here it refers specifically to the inner veil that separated the Most Holy Place from the rest of the tabernacle. This word emphasizes the idea of separation and restricted access.
• "ἅγια ἁγίων" (hagia hagiōn, G39, G39) is translated "Holiest of all" or "Most Holy Place." This phrase literally means "holy of holies," underlining that this was the most sacred space in the tabernacle, reserved for God's presence.

Why Hebrews 9:3 matters

• Hebrews 9:3 helps readers visualize the arrangement of the tabernacle and understand the strict boundaries that existed in Old Testament worship, which is important for grasping the argument the writer is making about access to God.
• The mention of the second veil and the Most Holy Place prepares the reader for the contrast the writer will make between the old covenant system and the new access to God made possible through Jesus.
• This verse clears up any confusion about the physical structure of the tabernacle and why access to God's presence was so limited before Jesus' sacrifice.