Hebrews 9:1-10 - The Earthly Ministry Of The Old Covenant
1 The first covenant had ordinances for divine service, and an earthly sanctuary. 2 A tabernacle was set up. The first room was called the Holy Place. It contained the lamp stand and table and the consecrated bread. 3 Beyond the second curtain was a room called the Most Holy Place. 4 It had a golden incense burner. The Ark of the Covenant was completely covered with gold. It contained the golden pot that had the manna, and the rod of Aaron that had sprouted, and the tables of the covenant. 5 The cherubim of glory shadowing the mercy seat were above the Ark. Now is not the time to speak in detail.
6 When these things are prepared, the priests enter the outer room often to carry on their services. 7 Only the high priest enters the inner room. Once a year he entered with blood, which he offers for himself and for the sins of the people. 8 The Holy Spirit revealed that the way into the Most Holy Place was not open while the tent was still in use. 9 This is a symbol that points to the present time. It means that the offerings and animal sacrifices presented to God cannot make the worshiper's heart perfect, 10 since they have to do only with food, drink, and various purification ceremonies. These are all outward rules, which apply only until the time comes to change them for something better.