### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hágion**, represented by `{{G39}}`, refers to a sacred thing or spot, translated as **sanctuary**, **holy place**, or **holiest of all**. As the neuter form of `{{G40}}` (**hágios**), it denotes a consecrated location. It appears **11 times** across **10 unique verses**, with all occurrences found in the book of Hebrews.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G39}}` is used exclusively to describe the components of the tabernacle and its heavenly counterpart. The first covenant had a "worldly **sanctuary**" [[Hebrews 9:1]] with physical ordinances. This structure included a first part called the **sanctuary**, which contained the candlestick and shewbread [[Hebrews 9:2]], and an inner room behind the second veil called the "**Holiest of all**" [[Hebrews 9:3]]. The author of Hebrews contrasts this physical place with the true **holy places** where Christ entered, which is **heaven** itself [[Hebrews 9:24]]. Access to the **holiest** is now available to believers through the blood of Jesus [[Hebrews 10:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and significance of the **sanctuary**:
* `{{G4633}}` **skēnḗ** (tabernacle): This term for a tent or cloth hut describes the overall structure wherein the **sanctuary** was located. Christ is a minister of the true **tabernacle**, not made by man [[Hebrews 8:2]].
* `{{G2665}}` **katapétasma** (vail): This door screen separated the Holy Place from the "**Holiest of all**" `{{G39}}`, marking a boundary that was central to the old covenant worship [[Hebrews 9:3]].
* `{{G749}}` **archiereús** (high-priest): This figure was the only one permitted to enter the **holy place** under the first covenant, and he did so with the **blood** of animals for sin ([[Hebrews 9:25]], [[Hebrews 13:11]]).
* `{{G129}}` **haîma** (blood): Access to the **holy place** is intrinsically linked to **blood**. Christ entered the heavenly **sanctuary** not with the blood of goats and calves, but by His own **blood** [[Hebrews 9:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G39}}` is centered on the transition from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant.
* **Earthly vs. Heavenly Sanctuaries:** The word is used to contrast the "worldly **sanctuary**" [[Hebrews 9:1]], which was a figure of the true, with the heavenly **sanctuary** where Christ now appears before God for us [[Hebrews 9:24]].
* **Redemptive Access:** The way into the "**holiest of all**" was not made manifest while the first tabernacle was standing [[Hebrews 9:8]]. However, Christ entered the **holy place** once, having obtained eternal **redemption** `{{G3085}}` for us [[Hebrews 9:12]].
* **Christ's Ministry:** Jesus is presented as a **minister** `{{G3011}}` of the true **sanctuary** which the Lord pitched, not man [[Hebrews 8:2]], signifying the superiority and permanence of His priestly work.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G39}}` is a crucial term for understanding the progression of redemption. It moves from a physical, restricted **sanctuary** on earth to the ultimate, heavenly **sanctuary** that is the very presence of God. The word illustrates how the Old Covenant's sacred spaces and rituals pointed toward the finished work of Christ, who as our High Priest secured eternal access to the true **Holiest of all**.
TRV