Hebrews 9:6

"and above it cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat, of which things we can’t speak now in detail."

Key Reflection

In Hebrews 9:6, the author describes the innermost chamber of the ancient Jewish temple, known as the Holy of Holies. This space contained the ark of the covenant, which held the stone tablets inscribed with the Ten Commandments and was covered by a golden lid called the mercy seat. Above this mercy seat were placed cherubim, symbolic figures representing divine presence and protection. To the original audience, these cherubim underscored the holiness and awe-inspiring nature of God’s presence, serving as a visual reminder that the temple was the place where heaven and earth met.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 6. When thee things were thus ordained. Thus arranged or appointed. Having shown what the tabernacle was, the apostle proceeds to show what was done in it. The Priests went always into the first tabernacle. The outer tabernacle, called the holy place. They were not permitted to enter the holy of holies, that being entered only once in a year by the high priest. The holy place was entered every day to make the morning and evening oblation. Accomplishing the service of God. Performing the acts of worship which God had appointed--burning incense, etc. Lu 1:9.

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