King James Version

What Does Hebrews 9:2 Mean?

Hebrews 9:2 in the King James Version says “For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the candlestick, and the table, and the shewbread ; which is cal...” — study this verse from Hebrews chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the candlestick, and the table, and the shewbread ; which is called the sanctuary. the sanctuary: or, holy”

Hebrews 9:2 · KJV

Context

1

Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service, and a worldly sanctuary. ordinances: or, ceremonies

2

For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the candlestick, and the table, and the shewbread ; which is called the sanctuary. the sanctuary: or, holy

3

And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all ;

4

Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant;

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The tabernacle's structure: a first room (the Holy Place) containing the lampstand, table, and showbread. These items had symbolic meaning - the lampstand representing God's presence (light), the showbread representing God's provision and fellowship. Yet these were 'copies' (8:5) pointing to greater realities. Christ is the true light (John 8:12) and bread of life (John 6:35).

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Historical & Cultural Context

Exodus 25-40 describes these furnishings in detail. The Holy Place was entered daily by priests for routine ministry, unlike the Most Holy Place entered only annually by the high priest. This structure taught gradations of access, all overcome in Christ.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do the tabernacle's furnishings point to aspects of Christ's person and work?
  2. What does the limitation of who could enter the Holy Place teach about the need for a better covenant?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 21 words
σκηνὴ1 of 21

“a tabernacle”

G4633

a tent or cloth hut (literally or figuratively)

γὰρ2 of 21

“For”

G1063

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

κατεσκευάσθη3 of 21

“made”

G2680

to prepare thoroughly (properly, by external equipment; whereas g2090 refers rather to internal fitness); by implication, to construct, create

ἡ4 of 21
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

πρώτη5 of 21

“the first”

G4413

foremost (in time, place, order or importance)

ἐν6 of 21

“wherein”

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

ᾗ7 of 21
G3739

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

ἥ8 of 21
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

τε9 of 21
G5037

both or also (properly, as correlation of g2532)

λυχνία10 of 21

“was the candlestick”

G3087

a lamp-stand (literally or figuratively)

καὶ11 of 21

“and”

G2532

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

ἡ12 of 21
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

τράπεζα13 of 21

“the table”

G5132

a table or stool (as being four-legged), usually for food (figuratively, a meal); also a counter for money (figuratively, a broker's office for loans

καὶ14 of 21

“and”

G2532

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

ἡ15 of 21
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

πρόθεσις16 of 21

“the shewbread”

G4286

a setting forth, i.e., (figuratively) proposal (intention); specially, the show-bread (in the temple) as exposed before god

τῶν17 of 21
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἄρτων18 of 21
G740

bread (as raised) or a loaf

ἥτις19 of 21

“which”

G3748

which some, i.e., any that; also (definite) which same

λέγεται20 of 21

“is called”

G3004

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

Ἅγια·21 of 21

“the sanctuary”

G39

a sacred thing (i.e., spot)

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 9:2 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 9:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Exodus 40:4Leviticus 24:5-8Exodus 26:35Exodus 40:22-24Exodus 26:33Exodus 40:18-20

Places in This Verse

Holy Place 2Room · Modern: Mount Moriah · 31.78°N, 35.24°E23 verses across 8 books
View all places in Hebrews 9 →

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