¹ Now even the first covenant had regulations for worship and an earthly sanctuary. ² For there was a tabernacle prepared, the first one, in which were the lampstand and the table and the sacred bread; this is called the holy place. ³ Behind the second curtain was a tabernacle called the Holy of Holies, ⁴ having the golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant covered on all sides with gold, which contained a golden jar holding the manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant; ⁵ and above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat. But of these things we cannot now speak in detail.

⁶ These preparations having thus been made, the priests go continually into the outer tabernacle, performing their ritual duties. ⁷ But into the second only the high priest goes, and he but once a year, and not without taking blood, which he offers for himself and for the sins of the people committed in ignorance. ⁸ The Holy Spirit was showing by this that the way into the holy place had not yet been disclosed as long as the outer tabernacle was still standing. ⁹ This is symbolic for the present time. According to this arrangement, gifts and sacrifices are offered which cannot perfect the conscience of the worshiper, ¹⁰ since they relate only to food and drink and various washings regulations for the flesh imposed until the time of reformation.