The Holy of Holies is the innermost part of the tabernacle and later in the temple. It was so sacred that only the high priest could enter it and then only once a year.
The Holy of Holies had a veil (which was very thick, more akin to a wall) separating it from the people. When Jesus died, this veil was torn in two—from top to bottom. This is significant for two reasons.
First, being torn from the top down signifies it was God’s doing. Since it was thirty feet high, a person would only be able to tear it from the bottom up. In effect, God was saying, I’m changing the old way of doing things.
More importantly, this opened up the Holy of Holies, showing that everyone could now approach God, at any time—not just the high priest once a year.
Some translations refer to the Holy of Holies as “the Most Holy Place” or “the Holiest of all.”
Key verse about the Holy of Holies:
“Behind the second veil there was another tabernacle [the inner one or second section] known as the Holy of Holies” (Hebrews 9:3, AMP).
Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront a status quo faith and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.
Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.
Bogged Down Reading the Bible?
Get the Bible Reading Tip Sheet: “10 Tips to Turn Bible Reading from Drudgery to Delight.”
Enter your info and receive the free Bible Reading Tip Sheet and be added to Peter’s email list.