9:7 9:7

Hebrews 9:8

9:9 9:9

Bible Versions

¶ The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:
The Holy {G40} Ghost {G4151} this {G5124} signifying {G1213}, that the way {G3598} into the holiest of all {G39} was {G5319} not yet {G3380} made manifest {G5319}, while as the first {G4413} tabernacle {G4633} was {G2192} yet {G2089} standing {G4714}:
By this arrangement, the Ruach HaKodesh showed that so long as the first Tent had standing, the way into the Holiest Place was still closed.
By this arrangement the Holy Spirit was showing that the way into the Most Holy Place had not yet been disclosed as long as the first tabernacle was still standing.
the Holy Spirit this signifying, that the way into the holy place hath not yet been made manifest, while the first tabernacle is yet standing;

Context of Hebrews 9:8

Hebrews chapter 9 meticulously describes the earthly tabernacle and its services under the Old Covenant, particularly the annual Day of Atonement. This verse, Hebrews 9:8, comes after a detailed explanation of the tabernacle's two main sections: the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place (also known as the "Holiest of all" or Holy of Holies). The author of Hebrews, inspired by the Holy Spirit, interprets the significance of these physical arrangements, revealing their spiritual meaning and foreshadowing the work of Christ.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Limited Access to God: The primary message of this verse is that under the Old Covenant system, symbolized by the "first tabernacle," direct, unhindered access to God's immediate presence (the "Holiest of all") was not yet fully established. The physical barrier of the veil and the restricted entry to the High Priest once a year underscored this separation.
  • Divine Revelation: The phrase "The Holy Ghost this signifying" emphasizes that this understanding of the tabernacle's purpose and limitations was not a human interpretation but a divinely inspired revelation. The Holy Spirit was actively communicating the deeper spiritual truths behind the Mosaic Law and its rituals.
  • Symbolism of the Tabernacle: The tabernacle was not an end in itself but a "figure for the time then present" (Hebrews 9:9), a shadow pointing to the greater reality that would be fulfilled in Jesus Christ. It served as a visual aid to teach Israel about God's holiness and the need for atonement, while also demonstrating the temporary nature of that system.
  • Anticipation of the New Covenant: By stating that "the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest," the verse powerfully sets the stage for the New Covenant, where Christ's sacrifice would open a new and living way into God's presence.

Linguistic Insights

The term "Holiest of all" translates the Greek phrase hagia hagion, which literally means "holy of holies" or "most holy place." This emphasizes the supreme sanctity and inaccessibility of God's dwelling place under the old dispensation. The word "manifest" (Greek: phaneroun) means to make visible, clear, or known, implying that the true spiritual path to God was obscured until Christ's advent.

Related Scriptures

This verse directly contrasts with the reality brought about by Christ's death. When Jesus died on the cross, the veil of the temple, which separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, was torn in two from top to bottom (Mark 15:38, Luke 23:45). This dramatic event symbolized that the way into God's immediate presence was now open to all believers through the blood of Jesus. Our access is secured by Christ, who entered the heavenly sanctuary "by his own blood, having obtained eternal redemption" (Hebrews 9:12).

Practical Application

For believers today, Hebrews 9:8 is a powerful reminder of the incredible privilege we have in Christ. We no longer need a physical tabernacle, a high priest, or animal sacrifices to approach God. Through Jesus, our great High Priest (Hebrews 4:14), we have direct and confident access to the Father's throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16). This verse encourages us to draw near to God with a true heart in full assurance of faith, recognizing the immense spiritual blessings granted to us through the New Covenant.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • John 14:6

    Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

  • Hebrews 3:7

    ¶ Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice,

  • Hebrews 10:19

    ¶ Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,

  • Hebrews 10:22

    Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.

  • Ephesians 2:18

    For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

  • Galatians 3:8

    And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, [saying], In thee shall all nations be blessed.

  • Hebrews 9:3

    And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all;
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