Hebrews 9:1 – Now the first covenant had regulations for worship and also an earthly sanctuary.

Extended Explanation of the Verse

This verse opens a section where the writer of Hebrews begins to explain the limitations of the old covenant, which was the agreement God made with Israel through Moses. The “first covenant” had specific instructions for how the people were to worship God. These weren’t random rules—they were given by God to teach His people how to live set apart and to show reverence to Him. The “earthly sanctuary” refers to the tabernacle, the sacred tent that Israel used before the temple was built. It was a real, physical place where sacrifices and rituals were carried out.

What’s important here is the contrast being drawn between the old way and the better way that was coming—and had come—through Jesus. This verse sets the stage for understanding how the old system, though God-given, was temporary and pointed forward to something greater.

Historical Context

Hebrews was written to early Jewish believers in Jesus who were under pressure to return to their old religious practices. They were familiar with the rituals, the priesthood, and the temple. In their minds, the first covenant had weight, tradition, and sacredness. The earthly sanctuary was a vital part of their identity.

Back in the Old Testament—see –Exodus 25:8-9—God gave Moses detailed plans for building the tabernacle. Every part of it was designed to reflect a deeper spiritual truth. But even then, it was understood to be a copy of something greater—see –Hebrews 8:5.

Theological Implications

This verse reminds us that God is a God of order and purpose. He didn’t just desire worship; He gave instructions for it. Yet, the fact that the sanctuary was earthly shows its limitations. It was a shadow, not the substance.

Theologically, this sets up the truth that access to God under the old covenant was restricted—only the high priest could enter the Most Holy Place, and only once a year—see –Hebrews 9:7. But through Jesus, the curtain was torn, and access to God became open to all who trust in Him—see –Matthew 27:51 and –Hebrews 10:19-20.

Literary Analysis

Hebrews 9:1 functions like a heading. It’s brief and to the point but introduces a deeper discussion that follows. The writer often uses comparison and contrast—between the old and the new, shadow and reality, copy and original. The language here is simple, but it opens up a rich theological discussion that spans the rest of the chapter.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• –Exodus 25:8-9 – God’s instructions for the tabernacle

• –Leviticus 16 – Day of Atonement rituals

• –Hebrews 8:5 – The earthly sanctuary is a copy of the heavenly one

• –Matthew 27:51 – The temple curtain torn when Jesus died

• –Hebrews 10:1 – The law is only a shadow of the good things to come

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, this verse is a reminder that religion alone is not enough. The old covenant had form and structure, but it couldn’t fully cleanse people’s hearts. That came only through Jesus. We are not bound to a physical place to worship God—see –John 4:21-24. Worship is now through the Spirit and in truth.

This verse also challenges us to appreciate the seriousness of worship and the holiness of God, even though we now have direct access to Him.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God didn’t leave His people to guess how to come near to Him. In love, He gave clear instructions. Even under the first covenant, God was revealing His desire to dwell with His people—see –Exodus 25:8. He showed that sin was serious but also provided a way for forgiveness through sacrifices.

Ultimately, His love is seen in how He moved from the old to the new. The first covenant was necessary, but it was never the end goal. It was preparation for a better promise—see –Hebrews 8:6.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This whole chapter of Hebrews builds up to Jesus. The old sanctuary was earthly and temporary. Jesus entered the heavenly sanctuary once for all, by His own blood—see –Hebrews 9:11-12. While the old system involved repeated sacrifices, Jesus’ sacrifice was final and complete.

He fulfilled everything the first covenant pointed to. The veil, the altar, the priest—all of it finds its true meaning in Him. That’s why Jesus said in –Matthew 5:17 that He came not to abolish the law, but to fulfill it.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

• Why do you think God gave so many detailed instructions for the tabernacle?

• How does knowing about the old covenant deepen your appreciation for what Jesus did?

• Are there any ways you’re tempted to rely on religious routines instead of a relationship with Christ?

• How can we worship God with reverence and freedom today?

• What does it mean to you that Jesus has opened the way to God permanently?