New Testament
Hebrews 9:7
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But only the high priest entered the second room, and only once a year. He never went in without blood, which he offered for himself and for the errors of the people.
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But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people:
What Hebrews 9:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the author of Hebrews explains the role of the high priest in the Jewish temple. The high priest was the only person allowed to enter the most sacred part of the temple, known as the second room or the Holy of Holies, and he could only do this once a year on the Day of Atonement. This annual event was significant because the high priest would bring blood from a sacrifice to atone for his own sins and the sins of the people. This ritual highlights the seriousness of sin and the need for a mediator between God and humanity. The blood symbolizes the cost of sin and the necessity of sacrifice for forgiveness. This practice foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who would offer Himself for the sins of all people, making a way for direct access to God without the need for a human high priest.
How to apply Hebrews 9:7 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of acknowledging our sins and seeking forgiveness. Just as the high priest made sacrifices for himself and the people, we are called to recognize our need for a Savior. We can approach God with confidence, knowing that Jesus has made the ultimate sacrifice for us.
Curated for this public verse page. Hebrews Summary
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Keep studying Hebrews 9:7
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Hebrews
- Author
- Author unknown; traditionally attributed to Paul
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Letter and sermon
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Hebrews 9:7 mean?
Hebrews 9:7 explains that the high priest was the only one allowed to enter the Holy of Holies in the temple, and he could only do this once a year on the Day of Atonement. He brought blood from a sacrifice to atone for his own sins and the sins of the people, emphasizing the seriousness of sin and the need for a mediator.
What is the significance of the high priest in Hebrews 9:7?
In Hebrews 9:7, the high priest represents the mediator between God and the people. His annual entry into the Holy of Holies with blood symbolizes the need for sacrifice and atonement for sins, which foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus.
What does 'offered for himself and for the errors of the people' mean in Hebrews 9:7?
This phrase indicates that the high priest first had to atone for his own sins before he could offer sacrifices for the sins of the people. It highlights the necessity of personal accountability and the seriousness of sin.
How does Hebrews 9:7 relate to the concept of atonement?
Hebrews 9:7 illustrates the practice of atonement in the Old Testament, where the high priest's sacrifice was essential for reconciling the people with God. This ritual underscores the need for bloodshed to cover sins, a theme that is fulfilled in the New Testament through Jesus' sacrifice.
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