Hebrews 9:1-10 - The Earthly Ministry Of The Old Covenant

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.