Preface: This chapter is going to look at the ceremonial laws and match them up with Jesus Christ and His sacrifice on the cross.

Bible Summary: The high priest enters the Most Holy Place once a year with blood. Christ entered the true holy place once for all by his own blood.

This should be the most extensive examination of Hebrews 9 available, where you will be able to examine in depth every word of the original text.

Brief Overview:

Outline of Chapter 9:

Preface

Introduction

         vv.     1–10         The Ritual Worship of the Earthly Tabernacle

         vv.    11–14         The Superior Sacrifice of the Christ

         vv.    15–22         Jesus is the Mediator of a Better Covenant

         vv.    23–28         The Once-for-All Sacrifice of the Lord

Chapter Summary

Addendum

Charts, Graphics and Short Doctrines:

         Preface               Preface

         Preface               Brief Overview

         Preface               Quotations

         Introduction         Titles and/or Brief Descriptions of Hebrews 9 (by Various Commentators)

         Introduction         Brief, but insightful observations of Hebrews 9 (various commentators)

         Introduction         Fundamental Questions About Hebrews 9

         Introduction 

         Introduction         The Prequel to Hebrews 9

         Introduction         The Principals of Hebrews 9

         Introduction         The Places of Hebrews 9

         Introduction         By the Numbers

         Introduction         A Synopsis of Hebrews 9

         Introduction         Outlines and Summaries of Hebrews 9 (Various Commentators)

         Introduction         A Synopsis of Hebrews 9 from the Summarized Bible

         Introduction 

         Introduction 

         Introduction         The Big Picture (Hebrews –)

         Introduction 

         Introduction 

         Introduction         Changes—additions and subtractions

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         v.       2              The Lampstand (Menorah) (a graphic)

         v.       2              The Bread of Presence (a graphic)

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         v.       3              The Golden Incense Altar (a graphic)

         v.       4              Golden Jar of Manna (a graphic)

         v.       4              Aaron’s Rod that Budded (a graphic)

         v.       4              The Tables of the Covenant (a graphic)

         v.       5              The Ark of the Covenant (a graphic)

         v.       5              The Tabernacle Complex (a graphic)

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         Summary            A Set of Summary Doctrines and Commentary

         Summary            Why Hebrews 9 is in the Word of God

         Summary            What We Learn from Hebrews 9

         Summary            Jesus Christ in Hebrews 9

         Summary            A Brief Review of Hebrews 9

         Summary 

         Summary 

         Addendum 

         Addendum          Seven Types of Death in Scripture (Grace Notes)

         Addendum          Forty Things Received at Salvation (R. B. Thieme, Jr. and Rev. Thomas Tyree, Jr.)

         Addendum          Forty Things God Provides Every Believer at the Moment of Salvation

         Addendum          Forty Things Links

         Addendum          The Doctrine of Mediatorship (R. B. Thieme, Jr.)

         Addendum          The Abbreviated Doctrine of Typology

         Addendum 

         Addendum 

         Addendum          A Complete Translation of Hebrews 9

         Addendum          Doctrinal Teachers Who Have Taught Hebrews 9

         Addendum          Word Cloud from the Kukis Paraphrase of Hebrews 9

         Addendum          Word Cloud from Exegesis of Hebrews 9

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An Introduction to Hebrews 9

I ntroduction: Hebrews 9 compares the Old Testament teachings and ceremonies to their reality, which is found in Jesus Christ. The first covenant in this chapter is a reference to the Law of Moses, which covenant was read aloud to the people of Israel; and which ceremonies were put into action from the point forward.

At the beginning, there was the Holy Tent (called the Tabernacle), and with it were it furnishings—the various furniture and their implements. Unlike our churches today, people did not come into the Tabernacle to worship. This was off limits to the average believer, who stood outside the Tent of Meeting.

Priests were allowed to enter into the Tabernacle (and later, the Temple), and take care of the various duties which needed to be done (the lighting of the lamp, the placing of the new bread on the table, the burning of the incense). These things took place very day, but they looked forward to their fulfillment in reality.

One of the duties of the chief priest was to enter into the Holy of Holies (which was a compartment at the back of the Tabernacle), once a year, and he would sprinkle blood on the Mercy Seat, for himself and for the people.

All of these things which take place in the earthly Tabernacle are representative of the true things of God. Christ and His deaths on the cross, are the fulfillment of many of these ceremonies and articles of furniture.

This chapter continually goes back and forth between the ceremonial acts and the realities (or their fulfillment).

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The Ritual Worship of the Earthly Tabernacle

Here is how others have translated this verse:

Ancient texts:                       I will use the Westcott-Hort Greek text as the basis for my English translation. I use that test primarily because e-sword has a nice module by Rob Wolfram which has the interlinear English text, Strong’s #’s, and the Greek morphology. The e-sword tab is IWH+P. I do not use their English text for my translation. Also, throughout, I take in consideration alternate readings.

As a young Christian, I was quite interested in the alternative readings. After many decades of study, I have found that, as with the Hebrew text, disputed readings rarely have any affect on the interpretation of a text (apart from perhaps a half-dozen fairly well-known alternate readings, like the end of the book of Mark).

I will compare the Greek text to English translations of the Latin and Syriac (= Aramaic) texts, using the Douay-Rheims translation and George Lamsa’s translation from the Syriac. I often update these texts with non-substantive changes (e.g., you for thou, etc.).

In general, the Latin text is an outstanding translation from the Hebrew text into Latin and very trustworthy (I say this as a non-Catholic). Unfortunately, I do not read Latin—apart from some very obvious words—so I am dependent upon the English translation of the Latin (principally, the Douay-Rheims translation).

The Septuagint and the Dead Sea Scrolls are irrelevant, as they preceded the writing of the New Testament by over 200 years.

Underlined words indicate differences in the text.

Ancient texts:

Westcott-Hort Text (Greek)    It was having, indeed, therefore, even the first statutes of service of the holiest (place) of earth. For a tent was furnished—the first (one), in which not only the lampstand but also the table and a placing in view the loaves (of bread), which kept on being spoken of a holy place. Now, behind the second curtain a tent, the one being spoken of, a holy place of holy places, having a golden altar of incense and the Ark of the contract being overlaid on all sides with gold; in which [Ark] a jar golden having the manna and the rod of Aaron, the sprouted (one), and the tablets of the contract. Now over her cherubim of glory overshadowing the place of propitiation (about which now is not [the time] to speak according to [each] part).

Complete Apostles’ Bible      Then indeed, even the first covenant had ordinances of divine service and the earthly sanctuary.

For a tabernacle was prepared: the first part, in which were both the lampstand and the table and the showbread, which is called the holy place;

and after the second veil, the part of the tabernacle which is called the Holy of Holies,

having a golden altar, and the ark of the covenant having been overlaid on all sides with gold, in which were a golden jar having the manna, and the rod of Aaron which budded, and the tablets of the covenant;

and above it were cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat; concerning these things we cannot now speak in detail.

Revised Douay-Rheims         .

Douay-Rheims 1899 (Amer.) .

V. Alexander’s Aramaic T.     .

Eastern Aramaic Mnscrpts     .

James Murdock’s Syriac NT Now, under the first [covenant], there were ordinances of ministration, and a worldly sanctuary.

For in the first tabernacle which was erected, there was the candlestick, and the table and the bread of the presence; and this was called the Sanctuary.

But the inner tabernacle, which was within the second veil, was called the Holy of Holies.

And there were in it the golden censer and the ark of the covenant, which was all over laid with gold; and in it were the golden urn which contained the manna and the rod of Aaron which sprouted, and the tables of the covenant;

and over it were the cherubim of glory, which overshadowed the mercy seat. But there is not time to speak particularly of each of the things which were so arranged.

Original Aramaic NT              But in the first there was an order of ministry and a worldly sanctuary.

For the first Tabernacle that was made there had the Manorah and the table of showbread, and it was called The Holy Place.

But the inner* Tabernacle from within the second veil was called The Holy of Holies.

And there was in it the golden place of incense and The Ark of the Covenant, all overlaid with gold, and it had a pot of gold in which was manna and the Rod of Aaron which budded, and The Tablets of The Covenant.

And above, the cherubim of glory, which shrouded over the mercy seat; but there is no time for us to speak about each one of these things which were thus fashioned.

Plain English Aramaic Bible   .

Lamsa Peshitta (Syriac)         .

Significant differences: 

English Translations:          I have included translations which I disagree with and footnotes that I do not necessarily agree with. If I believe that the author is too far from the truth, I may even address that at the footnote. However, nearly all of the correct commentary will be found following the Greek text box and the translation of each phrase.

Limited Vocabulary Translations:

Bible in Basic English             Now the first agreement had its rules of worship, and a holy order. 

For the first Tent was made ready, having in it the vessels for the lights and the table and the ordering of the bread; and this is named the holy place. 

And inside the second veil was the place which is named the Holy of holies; 

Having a vessel of gold in it for burning perfumes, and the ark of the agreement, which was covered with gold and which had in it a pot made of gold for the manna, and Aaron's rod which put out buds, and the stones with the writing of the agreement; 

And over it were the winged ones of glory with their wings covering the mercy-seat; about which it is not possible now to say anything in detail.

Bible in Worldwide English     The first agreement had laws about worship. And it had a holy place on earth where the agreement was kept.

A house was made. In the first part of the house were the light, the table, and the bread of God. This first part was called the Holy Place.

The next part of the house was called the Most Holy Place.

In the Most Holy Place was a pan made of gold. In this pan a fire could burn to make a sweet-smelling smoke. The box of the agreement was also in the Most Holy Place. It was covered all over with gold. In this box were: the golden pot, which had some of the food God sent from heaven for the people in the desert; Aarons stick which grew flowers on it; and the stones which had Gods agreement written on them.

On top of the box were the shapes of two angels. They showed that God is great. Their wings spread over the cover of the box. It was the place where God showed that he is kind. But we cannot take time to tell about every part of these things now.

Easy English                          .

Easy-to-Read Version–2008  The first agreement had rules for worship and a place for worship here on earth. This place was inside a tent. The first area in the tent was called the Holy Place. In the Holy Place were the lamp and the table with the special bread offered to God. Behind the second curtain was a room called the Most Holy Place. In the Most Holy Place was a golden altar for burning incense. And also there was the Box of the Agreement. The Box was covered with gold. Inside this Box was a golden jar of manna and Aaron's rod--the rod that once grew leaves. Also in the Box were the flat stones with the Ten Commandments of the old agreement on them. Above the Box were the Cherub angels that showed God's glory. These Cherub angels were over the place of mercy. But we cannot say everything about this now.

God’s Word™                         The first promise had rules for the priests' service. It also had a holy place on earth. A tent was set up. The first part of this tent was called the holy place. The lamp stand, the table, and the bread of the presence were in this part of the tent. Behind the second curtain was the part of the tent called the most holy place. It contained the gold incense burner and the ark of the Lord's promise. The ark was completely covered with gold. In the ark were the gold jar filled with manna, Aaron's staff that had blossomed, and the tablets on which the promise was written. Above the ark were the angels of glory with their wings overshadowing the throne of mercy. (Discussing these things in detail isn't possible now.)

Good News Bible (TEV)         The first covenant had rules for worship and a place made for worship as well. A tent was put up, the outer one, which was called the Holy Place. In it were the lampstand and the table with the bread offered to God. Behind the second curtain was the tent called the Most Holy Place. In it were the gold altar for the burning of incense and the Covenant Box all covered with gold and containing the gold jar with the manna in it, Aaron's stick that had sprouted leaves, and the two stone tablets with the commandments written on them. Above the Box were the winged creatures representing God's presence, with their wings spread over the place where sins were forgiven. But now is not the time to explain everything in detail.

The Message                         .

NIRV                                      .

New Life Version                    .

New Simplified Bible              .

Thought-for-thought translations; dynamic translations; paraphrases:

Contemporary English V.       The first promise that was made included rules for worship and a tent for worship here on earth. The first part of the tent was called the holy place, and a lampstand, a table, and the sacred loaves of bread were kept there. Behind the curtain was the most holy place. The gold altar that was used for burning incense was in this holy place. The gold-covered sacred chest was also there, and inside it were three things. First, there was a gold jar filled with manna. Then there was Aaron's walking stick that sprouted. Finally, there were the flat stones with the Ten Commandments written on them. On top of the chest were the glorious creatures with wings opened out above the place of mercy. Now isn't the time to go into detail about these things.

The Living Bible                     .

New Berkeley Version           .

New Living Translation           .

The Passion Translation        Now in the first covenant there were specific rules for worship including a sanctuary on earth to worship in.  When you entered the tabernacle you would first come into the holy chamber where you would find the lampstand and the bread of his presence on the fellowship table.  Then as you pass through the next curtain you would enter the innermost chamber called, the holiest sanctuary of all.  It contained the golden altar of incense and the ark of covenant mercy, which was a wooden box covered entirely with gold. And placed inside the ark of covenant mercy was the golden jar with mystery-manna inside, Aaron’s resurrection rod, which had sprouted, and the stone tablets engraved with the covenant laws.  On top of the lid of the ark were two cherubim, angels of splendor, with outstretched wings overshadowing the throne of mercy. But now is not the time to discuss further the significant details of these things.

UnfoldingWord Simplified T.  Now even the first covenant had regulations for worship and an earthly sanctuary. For a tabernacle was prepared. The first room, in which were the lampstand, the table, and the bread of the presence, was called the holy place. Behind the second curtain was another room, called the most holy place.  \ It had a golden altar for incense. It also had the ark of the covenant, which was completely overlaid with gold. Inside it was a golden jar holding the manna, Aaron's rod that budded, and the tablets of the covenant. Above the ark of the covenant, glorious cherubim overshadowed the atonement lid, which we cannot now talk about in detail.

Williams’ New Testament      So indeed the first covenant had its regulations for worship and its earthly sanctuary. For the first or outer part of the tent, which is called the holy place, was equipped with the lamp and table and the presentation bread. But behind the second curtain is the tent that is called the holy of holies, with its golden incense-altar and the chest for the covenant, completely covered with gold, and in it a golden jar which held the manna, Aaron's staff that budded, and the tablets on which the covenant was written; and above the chest were the winged creatures, the symbols of God's glorious presence, overshadowing the mercy seat, of which I cannot now speak in detail.

Partially literal and partially paraphrased translations:

American English Bible          .

Beck’s American Translation .

Breakthrough Version            So the first treaty certainly also had right paths of a sacrifice ritual and the world's Sacred Thing. You see, a tent was constructed: the first room in which were both the lampstand and the table and the display of the loaves of bread, a certain room that is called the Sacred Room, but after the second curtain, the tent being called Sacred Room of Sacred Things having the golden altar and the box of the treaty that has been covered around on all sides with gold plating, in which is a golden jar (having the manna and Aaron's staff that sprouted) and the slabs of the treaty, over this, cherubim of magnificence throwing a shadow on the remedy; about which things there is not time now to be talking of each part.

Common English Bible           .

Len Gane Paraphrase           Now truly, the first [covenant] also had regulations for worship and an earthly holy place. For there was a tent set up. The outer one [had] in it the candlestick, the table, and the showbread. This is the Holy Place. Behind the second curtain of the tent is [the place] called the Holy of Holies, which had the golden censer and the ark of the covenant, which was totally covered with gold [containing] the golden jar that held manna, Aaron's rod that budded, and the tablets of the covenant. Over it [were] the cherubim of glory whose shadow covered the mercy seat concerning, which we cannot now speak in detail.

A. Campbell's Living Oracles Now, indeed, the first institution had both ordinances of service, and a worldly holy place. For the first tabernacle, which is called holy, was set in order; in which were both the candlestick and the table, and the showbread; and behind the second vail, the tabernacle which is called most holy-having the golden censer, and the ark of the institution, covered everywhere with gold, in which were the golden pot having the manna, and the rod of Aaron, which budded, and the tables of the institution; and above it, the cherubim of glory, overshadowing the mercy-seat; concerning which things we can not at present speak particularly.

New Advent (Knox) Bible       .

NT for Everyone                     .

20^th Century New Testament It is true that even the first Covenant had its regulations for divine worship, and its Sanctuary--though only a material one. For a Tabernacle was constructed, with an outer part which contained the stand for the lamps, and the table, and the consecrated bread. This is called the Sanctuary. The part of the Tabernacle behind the second Curtain is called the Inner Sanctuary. In it is the gold incense-altar, and the Ark containing the Covenant, completely covered with gold. In the Ark is a gold casket containing the manna, Aaron's rod that budded, and the tablets on which the Covenant was written; while above it, and overshadowing the Cover on which atonement was made, are the Cherubim of the Presence. But I must not now dwell on these things in detail.

Mostly literal renderings (with some occasional paraphrasing):

An Understandable Version   .

Berean Study Bible                .

Christian Standard Bible        .

Conservapedia Translation    .

Evangelical Heritage V.          .

Ferrar-Fenton Bible                .

Free Bible Version                 The former system had instructions as to how to worship, and an earthly sanctuary. The first room in the tabernacle housed the candlestick, the table, and the sacred bread. This was called the Holy Place. Past the second veil in the tabernacle was the room called the Most Holy Place. This contained the golden altar of incense, the gold-covered “agreement chest.”* Inside this were the golden pot containing manna, Aaron’s rod that had produced buds, and the stone inscriptions of the agreement.* Above this were the glorious angel cherubim covering the place of reconciliation. We can’t discuss all of this in detail now.

God’s Truth (Tyndale)           .

International Standard V        The Earthly Sanctuary and Its Ritual

Now even the first covenant [The Gk. lacks covenant] had regulations for worship and an earthly sanctuary. For a tent was set up, and in the first part were the lamp stand, the table, and the bread of the Presence. [Lit. the presentation of the bread] This was called the Holy Place. Behind the second curtain was the part of the tent called the Most Holy Place, which had the gold altar for incense and the Ark of the Covenant completely covered with gold. In it were the gold jar holding the manna, Aaron’s staff that had budded, and the Tablets of the Covenant. Above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the place of atonement. (We cannot discuss these things in detail now.)

Lexham Bible                         .

Montgomery NT                     .

NIV, ©2011                             .

Riverside New Testament      .

Leicester A. Sawyer’s NT      The first covenant then had ordinances of divine service and a worldly sanctuary. For the first tabernacle was provided, in which were the candlestick and the table and the show bread, which is called the sanctuary. But behind the second vail is the tabernacle, called the inner sanctuary, having the golden censer and the ark of the covenant overlaid on every side with gold, in which were the golden vase that had the manna and Aaron's rod that budded and the tables of the covenant, and over it were the cherubs of glory, overshadowing the propitiation; of which it is not necessary now to speak particularly.

The Spoken English NT         .

UnfoldingWord Literal Text    .

Urim-Thummim Version         Then truly the first Covenant had also ordinances of divine service and a Sacred Place. For a Tabernacle was prepared, the first, in which was both the Lamp- Stand, and the Table, and the Consecrated Bread of the presence, which is called Holy. And behind the Second Veil, the Tabernacle that is called the Holy of Holies; which had the Golden Censer, and the Ark of the Covenant overlaid all around with gold, in which was the Golden Pot that had manna, and Aaron's Staff that budded, and the Tablets of the Covenant; And over it the Cherubim of Glory shadowing the Covering-Lid; of which we cannot now speak in detail.

Weymouth New Testament    Now even the first Covenant had regulations for divine worship, and had also its sanctuary--a sanctuary belonging to this world. For a sacred tent was constructed--the outer one, in which were the lamp and the table and the presented loaves; and this is called the Holy place. And behind the second veil was a sacred tent called the Holy of holies. This had a censer of gold, and the ark of the Covenant lined with gold and completely covered with gold, and in it were a gold vase which held the manna, and Aaron's rod which budded and the tables of the Covenant. And above the ark were the Cherubim denoting God's glorious presence and overshadowing the Mercy-seat. But I cannot now speak about all these in detail.

Wikipedia Bible Project          .

Worsley’s New Testament    .

Catholic Bibles (those having the imprimatur):

Christian Community (1988)     .

The Heritage Bible                 .

New American Bible (2002)   .

New American Bible (2011)   .

New English Bible–1970        .

New Jerusalem Bible             .

New RSV                               .

Revised English Bible–1989   .

Jewish/Hebrew Names Bibles:

Complete Jewish Bible           .

exeGeses companion Bible   .

Hebraic Roots Bible               Truly then, the first covenant also had ordinances of service, and the earthly holy place.

For the first tabernacle was prepared, in which was both the menorah and the table, and the setting out of the loaves, which is called holy.

But behind the second veil is a tabernacle, being called Holy of Holies,

having a golden altar of incense¹, and the ark of the covenant covered around on all sides with gold, in which was the golden pot having the manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tablets of the covenant;

and above it the cherubs of glory overshadowing the mercy-seat (about which now is not enough time to speak piece by piece).

¹ This verse states the altar of incense is behind the veil. There were doors between the holy place and Holy of Holies and possibly the altar of incense could have been behind the veil but before the doors. 1Kgs 6:22, 31-32.

Holy New Covenant Trans.    The first [covenant] had rules for worship and a holy place in this world. The sanctuary was built. In the first room, there were the lamp stand, the table, and the holy loaves of bread. This room was called "the holy place". The second room behind the curtain was called "the most holy place". This room contained the golden altar and the chest of the covenant. The chest was completely covered with gold. Inside the chest, there were three things: the golden jar of manna, Aaron’s rod which had started to grow, and the stone tablets of God’s covenant. Two glorious angel-like statues stood above the chest. Their wings were spread over the place where sins were taken away. But now is not the time to talk about every detail of these things.

The Scriptures 2009              Now the first covenant indeed had regulations of worship and the earthly set-apart place.  For a Tent was prepared: the first part, in which was the lampstand, and the table, and the showbread, which is called the Set-apart Place.  And after the second veil, the part of the Tent which is called Most Set-apart, to which belonged the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid on all sides with gold, in which were the golden pot that held the manna, and the rod of Aharon that budded, and the tablets of the covenant, and above it the keru?im of esteem were overshadowing the place of atonement – about which we do not now speak in detail.

Tree of Life Version                Now even the first one had regulations for worship and the earthly sanctuary. For a tent was prepared: in the outer part were the menorah, the table, and the presentation of the bread—this is called the Holy Place. Beyond the second curtain was a dwelling called the Holy of Holies. It held a golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant, completely covered with gold. In the ark was a golden jar holding the manna, Aaron’s rod that budded, and the tablets of the covenant—and above it, cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat. But it is not now possible to speak in detail about these things.

Weird English, Olde English, Anachronistic English Translations:

Accurate New Testament       ...had certainly so and The [One] First acts (right) [of] service the [thing] also pure earthly Tent for is prepared The [One] First in whom {are} The also Lampstand and The Table and The Presentation [of] the loaves Who is said [One] Pure after but the second curtain {is} Tent The [One] Being Said [One] Pure [of] [things] pure golden Having incense altar and the box [of] the contract having been covered around [with] gold in whom {are} Container Golden Having the manna and The Rod {of} aaron The [One] Budding and The Tablets [of] the contract above but her cherubs [of] recognition {are} Overshadowing the seat (reconciling) about which* not is now {me} to say in part...

Alpha & Omega Bible            NOW EVEN THE FIRST covenant HAD ORDINANCES OF DIVINE WORSHIP AND THE EARTHLY SANCTUARY.

FOR THERE WAS A TABERNACLE PREPARED, THE OUTER ONE, IN WHICH WERE THE LAMPSTAND AND THE TABLE AND THE SACRED BREAD; THIS IS CALLED THE HOLY PLACE.

BEHIND THE SECOND VEIL THERE WAS A TABERNACLE WHICH IS CALLED THE HOLY OF HOLIES,

HAVING A GOLDEN ALTAR OF INCENSE AND THE ARK OF THE COVENANT COVERED ON ALL SIDES WITH GOLD, IN WHICH WAS A GOLDEN JAR HOLDING THE MANNA, AND AARON'S ROD WHICH BUDDED, AND THE SLABS [of stone] OF THE COVENANT;

AND ABOVE IT WERE THE CHERUBIM OF GLORY OVERSHADOWING THE SEAT OF RECONCILIATION (The "Mercy Seat"); BUT OF THESE THINGS WE CANNOT NOW SPEAK IN DETAIL.

Awful Scroll Bible                   Then surely, the first was holding also, righteous services and the earthly awful place.

For a tabernacle is being implemented-along-down, the first veil, from-within which were both the lampstand, and the four-footed table and the set-before bread, what-certain is called "The Awful Place",

and behind the second veil, the tabernacle which is being called, "The Awful of Awful Place",

holding a golden incense altar, and the ark, of the Cause-to-be-set-forth, having been covered-around, on all sides with gold, from-within which, was the golden jar, holding the manna, and Aaron's rod being budded, and the tablets of the Cause-to-be-set-forth,

and over-above it, the cherubs of splendor, shading-along-down the mercy seat, about which, we are not now to speak, according to the particulars.

Concordant Literal Version    Indeed then, the former also had just statutes of divine service, besides a worldly holy place."

For the tabernacle is constructed, the front part (in which was, besides the lampstand, the table also, and the showbread), which is termed the holy place."

Now after the second curtain is a tabernacle which is termed the holy of holies,

having the golden censer and the ark of the covenant, covered about everywhere with gold, in which was the golden urn having the manna, and Aaron's staff which germinates, and the tablets of the covenant."

Now up over it were the cherubim of glory, overshadowing the propitiatory shelter, concerning which there is nothing in particular to say now.".

exeGeses companion Bible   THE COSMIC HOLY TABERNACLE

But indeed the first tabernacle

also had judgments of ministration

and a cosmic Holies:

for there they prepared a first tabernacle;

wherein were the menorah

and the table and the prothesis bread;

which is worded, Holies.

Exodus 25:30

And after the veil, the second tabernacle

which is worded, Holy of Holies;

having the golden incenser

and the ark of the covenant

covered all around on every side with gold,

wherein was the golden jar that had manna

and the scion of Aharon that sprouted

and the slabs of the covenant.

Exodus 16:33, 25:10, 34:29, Leviticus 16:12,

Numbers 17:10, Deuteronomy 10:2, 5

And over it,

the cherubim of glory shadowing the kapporeth;

about which we cannot word now about its parts.

Orthodox Jewish Bible           Now the Brit HaRishonah farshteit zich (of course) had regulations for avodas kodesh in an earthly Mikdash.

For the Mishkan was furnished, that is, hachitzon (the outer one) in which were both the Menorah and the Shulchan and the setting out of the Lechem HaPanim. This part is the Kodesh, the Holy Place.

And behind the Parokhet HaSheynit was the part of the Mishkan being called the Kodesh HaKodashim,

Having a golden Mizbe'ach of ketoret (incense) and the Aron HaBrit having been covered on all sides with gold, and in which was a golden jar holding the manna and the rod of Aharon which budded, and the Luchot haBrit (the tablets of the Covenant, the Decalogue, Aseret HaDibrot).

And above the Aron HaBrit the k'ruvim of kavod overshadowing the kapporet, about which things it is not possible to speak now in praht (detail).

Rotherham’s Emphasized B. .

Expanded/Embellished Bibles:

The Amplified Bible                .

An Understandable Version   Now even the first Agreement had regulations for [governing] service [to God] and an earthly sanctuary. For the Tabernacle was constructed with its outer compartment containing the lamp stand and the table and the Bread of Presence. This was called the “Holy Place.” And behind the second curtain [of] the Tabernacle was [a room] called the “Holy of Holies.” It had a golden altar for [burning] incense [in it], and [originally] the gold-plated Chest of the Agreement, containing a golden jar of manna, Aaron’s staff that sprouted buds and the tablets of the Agreement. Above it were the cherubim [Note: These were winged, angelic-like, golden figurines] spread out over the [Chest] covering, where sins were [symbolically] forgiven. But we cannot now speak of these things in detail.

Benjamin Brodie’s trans.       To be sure, therefore, even the first [Mosaic Law covenant] had regulations for worship and an earthly sanctuary,

For the first tabernacle was constructed, inside of which was the lampstand [Christ as the living Word] and the table [Christ as the written Word] and the presentation of the breads [12 loaves representing the 12 tribes of Israel], which was designated the Holy Place,

And behind the second curtain, the large tent which was designated the Holy of Holies,

Having the golden altar of incense [intercession and fellowship], and the ark of the covenant [made of acacia wood] which was overlaid [plated] on all sides with gold [deity], inside of which a golden pot existed which held the manna [Bread of Life], and Aaron’s rod which budded, and the tables [tablets] of the covenant [the 10 commandments of the Mosaic Law],

And above it [the ark of the covenant]: the Cherubim of glory which overshadowed the mercyseat [place of propitiation], concerning which things we are not going to discuss in detail at this present time.

The Expanded Bible              .

Jonathan Mitchell NT             The first, indeed then, also continued having effects of rites and products of the way then pointed out (= ordinances and regulations for the right way to do things) in respect to worship and sacred service, besides the set-apart (or: holy) place pertaining to that system (suited to that ordered arrangement),

for a tabernacle was furnished (equipped, prepared), the first [part; compartment] – in which [was] both the lampstand and the table, even the setting forth of the breads, as well as the golden censer-altar [reading with B: Vat. MS #1209, & Sahidic witnesses] – which is being called set-apart (a holy place; [the] Holy Place; a separated place).

But after the second veil, a tabernacle being called the set-apart of the set-apart ones (the Holy of Holies; the separated one of the separated ones; = the most set-apart),

having the ark of the arrangement (or: chest pertaining to the covenant), having been covered round about by gold, in which [was] a golden pot (or: urn) continuously holding (or: having) the manna, and Aaron's rod – the one sprouting (budding) – and the tablets of the arrangement (disposition; covenant),

but up above her [i.e., the ark] [are] cherubim, which have the character and quality of and express [the] glory, continuously overshadowing the mercy seat (the place of gentleness and graciousness), concerning which things (or: ones) there is now nothing to be saying corresponding to [that] part (or: down from, or in accord with, a part; = in detail).

Syndein/Thieme                     .

Translation for Translators     .

The Voice                               .

Bible Translations with Many Footnotes:

Lexham Bible                         The Earthly Ministry of the Old Covenant

Now [Some manuscripts have “Now even”] the first covenant had regulations for worship and the earthly sanctuary. For a tent was prepared, the first one , in which were the lampstand and the table and the presentation of the loaves, which is called the holy place. And after the second curtain was a tent called the holy of holies, containing the golden incense altar and the ark of the covenant covered on all sides with gold, in which were a golden jar containing the manna and the rod of Aaron that budded and the tablets of the covenant. And above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat, about which it is not now possible to speak in detail.

NET Bible®                             .

New American Bible (2011)   .

The Passion Translation        .

Rotherham’s Emphasized B. .

The Spoken English NT         The Earthly and the Heavenly Holy Place
Now, the first covenant used to have rules for worship^a and an earthly Holy Place.

For example, it was set up so that the first part of the Tent had the lampstand,^b and the table with^c the offering of the loaves.^d That’s called “the Holy Place”.

But behind the second curtain is an inner tent called “the Holiest Place”.^e

It has a golden incense altar and the “ark of the covenant,”^f which is covered with gold all over. In it there’s a gold jar that has the manna,^g Aaron’s staff that budded, and the tablets of the covenant.^h

Over the ark, the “cherubsⁱ of glory” overshadow the “mercy seat”.^j We can’t talk in detail right now about these things.

^a.Lit. “service,” i.e. formal religious service to God.

^b.Lit. “For a tent was set up, the first one, in which was the lampstand”. See Exodus 25–26; Leviticus 24:1-9.

^c.Lit. “and”.

^d.Or “the bread of the Presence”. See Exodus 25:23-30; Leviticus 24:5-9. There were always twelve loaves of bread on a table to represent the twelve tribes of Israel in God’s presence.

^e.Lit. “Holy of Holies”. Exodus 26:31-33. From here on, the author appears to use the term “the Holy Place” to refer to the “Holiest Place” (see Hebrews 9:8; Hebrews 9:12; Hebrews 9:24-25; Hebrews 10:19; Hebrews 13:11).

^f.See “Bible Words” under “ark of the covenant”.

^g.See “Bible Words”.

^h.See Exodus 16:33; Numbers 17:8-10; Exodus 25:16; Deuteronomy 10:3-5.

^i.See “Bible Words”.

^j.See Exodus 25:18-22. A number of rituals involving forgiveness of sins and divine mercy are associated with the “mercy seat,” which is the lid of the ark of the covenant. See e.g. Leviticus 16.

Wilbur Pickering’s New T.     The earthly sanctuary
Now that first covenant did indeed have regulations for divine service and the earthly sanctuary. Yes, a tabernacle was set up: the first part, which is called the Holy Place, in which were the lamp stand, the table and the showbread; and behind the second curtain an area called the Holy of Holies, having a golden censer¹ and the ark of the covenant overlaid on all sides with gold—in it were a golden jar holding the manna, Aaron’s rod that budded, and the stone tablets of the covenant; while above it were cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat (this is not the place to go into detail about them).²

(1) The normal meaning of the Greek word here is precisely ‘censer’, but unfortunately modern versions like NIV, TEV, LB, NASB render ‘altar of incense’, thus setting up a contradiction with the Old Testament. According to Exodus 30:6 the altar of incense was placed in front of the curtain leading into the Holy of Holies, and so it was in the Holy Place, not the Holy of Holies. The only reference to this particular censer appears to be in Leviticus 16:12, where it was to be used behind the second curtain to hide the Ark with smoke. Since that censer would only be used once a year (on the day of atonement), it may well have been stored just behind a corner of the second curtain (where the high priest could retrieve it without looking in) and thus the author of Hebrews would be correct in saying that the censer was behind the second curtain, whereas the altar was in front of it. In any event, evidently that censer was only used within the Holy of Holies, and so it would be appropriate to say that the area ‘had’ a golden censer.

(2) Oh, but I wish he had!

Literal, almost word-for-word, renderings:

A Faithful Version                  Truly then, the first tabernacle also had ordinances of worship and an earthly sanctuary.  For the first tabernacle, which is called holy, was furnished; in which were placed both the lampstand and the table, and the loaves of showbread.  But behind the second veil was a tabernacle which is called the holy of holies, Containing a golden censer, and the ark of the covenant, which was overlaid on all sides with gold; in which was the golden jar containing the manna, and the rod of Aaron that had sprouted, and the tablets of the covenant; And arching above it were the cherubim of glory spreading their wings over the mercy seat, concerning which now is not the time to expound in detail.

Analytical-Literal Translation  Then indeed even the first [covenant] had ordinances of sacred service and the earthly sanctuary. For a tabernacle was prepared: the first [part] in which [were] both the lampstand and the table, and the loaves of bread of the presentation [fig., the consecrated bread], which is called "Holy Place" [fig., the outer sanctuary]; and after the second veil [was] a tabernacle which is being called "Holy of Holies" [fig., the inner sanctuary], having a golden, incense altar and the ark of the covenant having been overlaid on all sides with gold, in which [were the] golden pot having the manna and the rod of Aaron, the one having budded, and the tablets of the covenant, and above it [were the] cherubim of the glory overshadowing the mercy-seat [or, the place of forgiveness] concerning which we are not now [able] to be speaking in detail.

Berean Literal Bible                .

Bond Slave Version               .

C. Thomson updated NT        .

Charles Thomson NT             Now then the first covenant had the ordinances of divine service and the worldly sanctuary; for a tabernacle was prepared; the first compartment, in which are the candlestick, and the table, and the presentment of the loaves; this is called the Holy. And beyond the second veil is a compartment which is called, The Holy of Holies, containing a golden altar and the ark of the covenant, all overlaid with gold, in which was the golden urn containing the manna, and the staff of Aaron which budded, and the tables of the covenant, and above it the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy-seat, concerning which we are not at this time to speak particularly.

Context Group Version          Now even a first [covenant] had also ordinances of divine public service, and its special place, [a special place] of this world. For there was a tabernacle prepared, the first, in which [were] the candlestick, and the table, and the showbread; which is called the Special place. And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Special of holies; having a golden altar of incense, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, in which [was] a golden pot holding the manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant; and above it cherubim of glory {or public honor} overshadowing the generosity-seat; of which things we can't now speak severally.

English Standard Version      .

Far Above All Translation       The first one did indeed have ordinances of religious service and the worldly sanctuary. For the first tabernacle was fitted out in which there was the lamp-stand and the table and the exhibition of the showbread, which is called the sanctuary. But after the second veil is the tabernacle which is called the holy of holies, having a golden censer and the ark of the covenant, overlaid on all sides with gold, in which is a golden jar containing the manna, and Aaron's rod which budded, and the tablets of the covenant. And above it are the cherubim of glory overshadowing the atonement cover, concerning whom it is not now possible to speak particularly.

Green’s Literal Translation    .

Literal New Testament           .

Literal Standard Version        It had, indeed, then (even the first dwelling place) ordinances of service, also a worldly sanctuary,

for a dwelling place was prepared, the first, in which was both the lampstand, and the table, and the Bread of the Presentation—which is called “Holy”;

and after the second veil a dwelling place that is called “Holy of Holies,”

having a golden censer, and the Ark of the Covenant overlaid all over with gold, in which [is] the golden pot having the manna, and the rod of Aaron that budded, and the tablets of the covenant,

and over it cherubim of the glory, overshadowing the propitiatory covering, concerning which we are not to particularly speak now.

Modern English Version         .

Modern Literal Version 2020  Therefore indeed even the first tabernacle had ordinances of divine service to God and the holy-place, a worldly one. For* the first tabernacle was prepared, which is called* the holy-place, in which were the lamp-stand and the table and the loaves of the showbread. But, the tabernacle which is called* the holy of holies was after the second curtain; holding a golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant*, having been covered all around on every-side with gold, in which was the golden jar holding the manna and Aaron’s scepter which had sprouted and the tablets of the covenant*; and up above it the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy-seat; concerning which things it is now not the time to speak of them individually. {Exodus 25:1-40, 26:36, 40:3, Num 17:10}.

Modern KJV                           .

New American Standard B.    .

New European Version          .

New King James Version       .

NT (Variant Readings)           .

Niobi Study Bible                   The Earthly Sanctuary

Then verily, the first covenant also had ordinances (ceremonies) of divine service and a worldly sanctuary. For there was a tabernacle made, the first, wherein was the candlestick and the table and the showbread, which is called the sanctuary (Holy Place). And after the second veil was the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of All, which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tablets of the covenant; and over it were the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercy seat, of which we cannot now speak particularly.

Revised Young's Lit. Trans.   .

R. B. Thieme, Jr. translation  Even so therefore the first [Mosaic law] used to have regulations for worship, and its sanctuary [the tabernacle, Temple] was right here in the world.

For the first tent was constructed in which there was both the golden lampstand and the table and the prosthesis bread [way of thinking loaves]; which categorically is designated the holy place.

And behind the second curtain [or veil], a tent which is called [or designated] the Holy of holies.

Having belonging to it [the holy of holies] the golden altar of incense, the ark of the covenant having been plated on all sides with gold, in which was the golden urn having the manna, and Aaron’s rod having germinated and sprouted, and the tables of the covenant.

And above it the cherubs of glory overshadowing the mercy seat; concerning which [Mercy Seat] the items of the Tabernacle and the mercy seat, it is not now time to teach in detail” — or, “there is no time to teach in detail.

A Voice in the Wilderness      .

Updated Bible Version 2.17   .

Webster’s Translation           .

World English Bible                .

Worrell New Testament         .

Young’s Updated LT             .

The gist of this passage: 

1-5

Translation: Indeed, therefore, the first [covenant] was having the statutes of service of the holiest (place) of earth.

This chapter is going to look at the ceremonial laws and match them up with Jesus Christ.

The book of Exodus is packed with great chapters and amazing things. At the very end of Exodus, the Tabernacle is constructed, representing, in many ways, the climax of a book, which has many climaxes prior to that one. See Exodus 40 (HTML) (PDF) (WPD).

The Tabernacle was a tent of worship, but much different from the churches that we attend. No one went into the Tabernacle, apart from some select priests. They performed duties within the Tabernacle; which no one apart from the priests in attendance saw. They went inside, did what was required, and exited. None of the Israelites saw what they did.

Hebrews 9:1 Indeed, therefore, the first [covenant] was having the statutes of service of the holiest (place) of earth. (Kukis nearly literal translation)

Translation: For the first tent was furnished, in which [tent was] the lampstand...

There were several articles of furniture in the Tabernacle. On the south side of the Tabernacle was the golden lampstand.

The Lampstand (Menorah) (a graphic); from Amazing Sanctuary; accessed November 16, 2022.

This is representative of Jesus, as the light of the world (John 8:12).

These piece of furniture were built by the artisans of Israel when they were in the desert, and had received directions from God.

Translation: ...and the table and the loaves (of bread) placed in view,...

To the north of the Tabernacle is the Table of Showbread; or the Table with the Bread of Presence upon it.

Jesus is the Bread of Life and the Bread of Presence. Bread often speaks of the Lord’s humanity.

Jesus refers to Himself as the Bread of Life (John 6:35) and the Bread sent down from heaven (John 6:41).

The Bread of Presence (a graphic); from Amazing Sanctuary; accessed November 16, 2022.

Translation: ...which kept on being called a holy place.

The Tabernacle was called the holy place.

Hebrews 9:2 For the first tent was furnished, in which [tent was] the lampstand and the table and the loaves (of bread) placed in view, which kept on being called a holy place. (Kukis nearly literal translation)

Translation: Now, behind the second curtain [another] habitation, the one being called [the] holy of holies.

Inside the Tabernacle was another curtain, called a second curtain (the first was over the front of the Tabernacle). About a third of the Tabernacle was a separate room, closed off by this second curtain. That room is called the Holy of Holies.

Only one person went into the section of the Tabernacle, and he went there but once a year, on that great day of atonement.

Hebrews 9:3 Now, behind the second curtain [another] habitation, the one being called [the] holy of holies. (Kukis nearly literal translation)

Translation: [This second curtain] keeps on having a golden incense altar...

In this phrase, I cheated by saying that the second curtain keeps on having. It is actually the Tabernacle (feminine singular noun) which keeps on having something (it has to match with the feminine singular participle). There are two pieces of furniture to be discussed, one on one side and one on the other side of the second curtain.

In the Tabernacle, but note behind the second curtain is the golden incense altar.

The Golden Incense Altar (a graphic); from Amazing Sanctuary; accessed November 16, 2022.

The incense represents the sweet smell of the sacrifices to God. God is propitiated by the sacrifice of our Lord on the cross. We no longer carry with us the awful stench of the sin nature, to which Adam’s original sin has been imputed.