Hebrews 9:1
Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service, and a worldly sanctuary.
Original Language Analysis
εἶχέν
covenant had
G2192
εἶχέν
covenant had
Strong's:
G2192
Word #:
1 of 13
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
μὲν
verily
G3303
μὲν
verily
Strong's:
G3303
Word #:
2 of 13
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
4 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
δικαιώματα
ordinances
G1345
δικαιώματα
ordinances
Strong's:
G1345
Word #:
8 of 13
an equitable deed; by implication, a statute or decision
τό
G3588
τό
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Exodus 25:8And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them.Hebrews 8:2A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.Leviticus 18:30Therefore shall ye keep mine ordinance, that ye commit not any one of these abominable customs, which were committed before you, and that ye defile not yourselves therein: I am the LORD your God.Leviticus 22:9They shall therefore keep mine ordinance, lest they bear sin for it, and die therefore, if they profane it: I the LORD do sanctify them.
Historical Context
The tabernacle (later temple) was central to Israel's covenant life. Its elaborate rituals and restrictions made God's holiness visible and taught separation between holy God and sinful people, creating longing for the greater access Christ provides.
Questions for Reflection
- What do the old covenant's elaborate rituals teach about God's holiness and human sin?
- How does Christ's spiritual priesthood surpass the physical ordinances of the earthly sanctuary?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The first covenant 'had ordinances of divine service' (Greek 'dikaiōmata latreias' - regulations for worship) and 'the earthly sanctuary.' This establishes the old covenant's concrete, physical nature - specific rituals in a material building. These were real and divinely ordained, yet earthly and temporary. Reformed theology values the types while emphasizing they found fulfillment and replacement in Christ's spiritual, eternal realities.