New Testament
Hebrews 9:7
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the author of Hebrews explains the role of the high priest in the Jewish temple.
- Author
- Author unknown; traditionally attributed to Paul
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Letter and sermon
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
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.
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:
Verse Analysis
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.
The Book of Hebrews
Hebrews 1: The Son Above the Angels
God, who formerly spoke through the prophets in many ways, has now spoken through His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things and through whom He made the worlds. The Son is the brightness of God's glory and the express image of His person, upholding all things by His power, and after purging sins He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high. The writer proves through Scripture that the Son is far greater than the angels: He is called the Son of God, receives worship from the angels, possesses an eternal throne, and laid the foundations of the earth, while angels are ministering spirits sent to serve the heirs of salvation.
Unlock the full Hebrews summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Hebrews — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 13 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Hebrews summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.