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The Holy of Holies
The innermost sanctuary of the Tabernacle and Temple where God's presence dwelt above the Ark of the Covenant.
The Holy of Holies was the most sacred part of the Temple in Jerusalem, separated by a veil and containing the Ark of the Covenant (CCC 2580, 2581). Only the High Priest could enter once a year on the Day of Atonement (Hebrews 9:7).
Typology and the New Covenant
At the moment of Christ's death, the veil of the Temple was torn in two, signifying that the way into the true Holy of Holies—Heaven itself—is now open to all through the Blood of Christ (CCC 585-586, 1137).
Frequently Asked Questions
What was inside the Holy of Holies? In Solomon's Temple, it contained the Ark of the Covenant; in the Second Temple, it was empty, yet still regarded as the dwelling place of the Shekhinah (God's glory).
May the Lord bless you and keep you.
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