What Is the Holy of Holies?
What Is the Holy of Holies? The Holy of Holies was the innermost room of the tabernacle and temple where God's presence dwelt above the Ark of the Covenant. Only the high priest could enter, once a year on the Day of Atonement.
Key verse: Leviticus 16:2 (KJV)
The Holy of Holies was the innermost room of the tabernacle and temple where God's presence dwelt above the Ark of the Covenant. Only the high priest could enter, once a year on the Day of Atonement.
The Holy of Holies was the innermost room of the tabernacle and temple where God's presence dwelt above the Ark of the Covenant. Only the high priest could enter, once a year on the Day of Atonement.
"And the LORD said unto Moses, Speak unto Aaron thy brother, that he come not at all times into the holy place within the vail before the mercy seat, which is upon the ark; that he die not." — Leviticus 16:2 (KJV)
Meaning
Plain-language explanation
In Context
Surrounding KJV scripture
Related Verses
Cross-reference scriptures
The Biblical Answer
The Holy of Holies (Most Holy Place) was separated from the Holy Place by a thick veil (Exodus 26:33). Inside was the Ark of the Covenant, containing the tablets of the law, Aaron's rod, and a jar of manna. The mercy seat atop the ark was where God's glory appeared (Leviticus 16:2). Only the high priest could enter, and only on Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement), carrying blood to atone for the nation's sins. When Jesus died on the cross, the temple veil was torn from top to bottom (Matthew 27:51), signifying that through Christ, all believers now have direct access to God's presence (Hebrews 10:19-22).
Key Scripture References
"And the LORD said unto Moses, Speak unto Aaron thy brother, that he come not at all times into the holy place within the vail before the mercy seat, which is upon the ark; that he die not."
"And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom."
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Related Questions
What Is the Ark of the Covenant?
The Ark of the Covenant was a gold-covered wooden chest containing the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and manna — representing God's presence and covenant with Israel.
What Is the Day of Atonement?
The Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) was the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, when the high priest made a special sacrifice to atone for the sins of the entire nation.
Who Wrote the Bible?
The Bible was written by approximately 40 human authors over 1,500 years, but ultimately inspired by God through the Holy Spirit.
Is the Bible True and Reliable?
Yes — the Bible's historical accuracy, fulfilled prophecy, internal consistency, and transformative power confirm its divine reliability.
How Many Books Are in the Bible?
The Bible contains 66 books — 39 in the Old Testament and 27 in the New Testament.
Deep Dive Commentary
For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:
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Read it in context
The answer above sits inside Leviticus. The 365-day chronological plan reads it in the order the events happened.
Read Leviticus on day 34 of the chronological Bible reading planKeep the verses to hand
Every verse quoted in “What Is the Holy of Holies?” comes from the King James Version, free to download and print.
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