Holy of Holies
The Holy of Holies was the innermost room of the tabernacle and later the temple, set apart as the most sacred place in Israel’s worship. It symbolized God’s holy presence among His people.
At a Glance
The Holy of Holies was the innermost room of the tabernacle and later the temple, set apart as the most sacred place in Israel’s worship. It symbolized God’s holy presence among His people.
Description
The Holy of Holies, also called the Most Holy Place, was the innermost and most sacred part of the tabernacle and later the temple. It housed the ark of the covenant in the earlier sanctuary setting and was separated from the Holy Place by a veil. Under the Old Testament system, access to this room was strictly limited: the high priest entered only once a year on the Day of Atonement, highlighting the holiness of God and the need for atoning sacrifice. In the New Testament, this restricted access helps explain the significance of Christ’s priestly work, especially as Hebrews presents Him as the one who opens the way into God’s presence through His once-for-all sacrifice. The term is clear, biblical, and suitable as a standard dictionary entry.