Hebrews 9:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Hebrews 9:6
6 Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God.
Chapter Context
Hebrews 9 is a homiletical epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of mercy, creation, discipleship. Written during before Jerusalem's destruction (c. 60-70 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Jewish Christians faced persecution pressure to return to Judaism's legal protections.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-28: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Hebrews and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Hebrews 9:6
6 Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God.
Analysis
These arrangements established, 'the priests always went into the first part of the tabernacle, performing the services.' Daily priestly duties in the Holy Place included trimming lamps, burning incense, and replacing showbread. This constant activity demonstrated that the work was never finished - a stark contrast to Christ who sat down after completing His sacrifice (10:12), indicating finished work.
Historical Context
The daily routine (morning and evening) maintained the tabernacle's function as God's dwelling place among His people. Yet this ceaseless activity revealed the old covenant's inability to provide final rest or completed redemption.
Reflection
- What does the endless nature of priestly services reveal about the old covenant's inadequacy?
- How does Christ's 'sitting down' after His sacrifice demonstrate the superiority of His priestly work?
Word Studies
- Priest: ἱερεύς (Hiereus) G2409 - Priest
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Numbers 28:3