King James Version

What Does Hebrews 9:10 Mean?

Hebrews 9:10 in the King James Version says “Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of refo...” — study this verse from Hebrews chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation. ordinances: or, rites, or, ceremonies”

Hebrews 9:10 · KJV

Context

8

The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:

9

Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience;

10

Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation. ordinances: or, rites, or, ceremonies

11

But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;

12

Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
These regulations concerned 'only food and drink, various washings, and fleshly ordinances imposed until the time of reformation.' The Greek 'diorthōseōs' (reformation/setting straight) indicates the new order Christ inaugurated. The old covenant dealt with external, physical matters; the new covenant reforms the heart. These rituals served until Christ came; now they're obsolete (8:13), having served their preparatory purpose.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The extensive food laws, purity regulations, and ritual washings (Leviticus) governed Israel's daily life, maintaining separation from surrounding nations and teaching holiness. Christ declared all foods clean (Mark 7:19), fulfilling and ending these ceremonial distinctions.

Reflection Questions

  1. What purpose did the food laws and washing rituals serve, and why are they no longer binding on Christians?
  2. How does the 'reformation' Christ brought change your relationship to religious ritual and regulation?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 15 words
μόνον1 of 15

“Which stood only”

G3440

merely

ἐπὶ2 of 15

“in”

G1909

properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re

βρώμασιν3 of 15

“meats”

G1033

food (literally or figuratively), especially (ceremonially) articles allowed or forbidden by the jewish law

καὶ4 of 15

“and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

πόμασιν5 of 15

“drinks”

G4188

a beverage

καὶ6 of 15

“and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

διαφόροις7 of 15

“divers”

G1313

varying; also surpassing

βαπτισμοῖς8 of 15

“washings”

G909

ablution (ceremonial or christian)

καὶ9 of 15

“and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

δικαιώμασιν10 of 15

“ordinances”

G1345

an equitable deed; by implication, a statute or decision

σαρκὸς11 of 15

“carnal”

G4561

flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e., (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or

μέχρι12 of 15

“on them until”

G3360

as far as, i.e., up to a certain point (as a preposition, of extent (denoting the terminus, whereas g0891 refers especially to the space of time or pl

καιροῦ13 of 15

“the time”

G2540

an occasion, i.e., set or proper time

διορθώσεως14 of 15

“of reformation”

G1357

rectification, i.e., (specially) the messianic restauration

ἐπικείμενα15 of 15

“imposed”

G1945

to rest upon (literally or figuratively)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Hebrews. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Hebrews 9:10 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Hebrews 9:10 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Ephesians 2:15Colossians 2:16Leviticus 11:2-47Hebrews 7:16Exodus 40:12Leviticus 16:4

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