Most holy place — Meaning in the Bible
The innermost room of the tabernacle and temple, where the ark of the covenant was kept. Only the high priest entered, once a year.
Scripture in WEBWorld English Bible — Protestant Edition
What it means
A veil separated the holy place from the most holy place, where the ark stood. The high priest entered it on the Day of Atonement. Exodus 26:31–34Leviticus 16:2Hebrews 9:6–7
When Jesus died, the Gospels record that the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. Mark 15:38Hebrews 10:19–20
Key passages
- Exodus 26:31–34 — The veil.
- Leviticus 16:1–2 — Not to come in at any time.
- 1 Kings 6:19–20 — The inner sanctuary in Solomon's temple.
- Mark 15:37–38 — The veil torn.
- Hebrews 9:1–12 — Hebrews explains.
How translations differ
- Older versions say "holy of holies"; the WEB and others say "most holy place". Exodus 26:33
Study further
- Leviticus 16 Who could enter.
- Hebrews 10:19–25 A new way opened.