Hebrews 9:23 – It was necessary, then, for the copies of the heavenly things to be purified with these sacrifices, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.

Extended Explanation of the Verse

This verse builds on the truth that forgiveness and cleansing require the shedding of blood—see –Hebrews 9:22. It explains that the earthly tabernacle and everything used in its worship were only copies of what exists in heaven. These copies were purified with animal sacrifices, like the blood of calves and goats.

But the heavenly things—God’s true dwelling place and the real presence of God—needed something greater. They had to be purified with “better sacrifices,” meaning the sacrifice of Jesus Himself. His offering was not limited or symbolic—it was perfect, eternal, and effective.

The point is this: if even the earthly tabernacle needed blood, how much more did heaven require the pure and powerful blood of Jesus to open the way for sinners to be in God’s presence?

Historical Context

In the Old Testament, the tabernacle was built exactly according to God’s instructions—see –Exodus 25:9. It was a holy space, but it was still part of the earthly creation. The priests used the blood of animals to cleanse the altar, the tent, and the people—see –Leviticus 16:15-20.

But Hebrews tells us that this earthly system was a copy of something greater—see –Hebrews 8:5. The real sanctuary is in heaven, where God Himself dwells. And when Jesus died and rose again, He entered that heavenly sanctuary, not with animal blood, but with His own—see –Hebrews 9:12.

His sacrifice made it possible for sinful people to come into the presence of a holy God—not just symbolically, but truly.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches us that:

• Earthly religion and rituals were never the end goal—they were shadows of a greater spiritual reality.

• The only way to truly approach God is through a better sacrifice: the blood of Jesus.

• Heaven itself had to be “prepared” for redeemed people to enter. That preparation came through the work of Christ.

It also shows that salvation is not merely personal—it’s cosmic. Jesus’ sacrifice has eternal, heavenly impact. His work brings cleansing not just on earth, but in the unseen, holy presence of God.

Literary Analysis

This verse uses contrast: “copies” vs. “heavenly things,” “these sacrifices” vs. “better sacrifices.” It continues the argument of the chapter, driving home the idea that Jesus’ ministry is superior in every way.

The word “necessary” signals that what happened under the old covenant was not random—it was required. But it was also incomplete, pointing to something greater that was always planned.

The plural word “sacrifices” at the end likely points back to all that Jesus’ one sacrifice fulfilled and replaced—not that He offered many, but that His one offering accomplished what many old ones could not.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• –Exodus 25:9 – The earthly tabernacle was patterned after a heavenly design

• –Hebrews 8:5 – The priests serve at a sanctuary that is a copy and shadow of what is in heaven

• –Hebrews 9:12 – Jesus entered the Most Holy Place once for all by His own blood

• –Hebrews 10:1 – The law is only a shadow of the good things that are coming

• –Colossians 1:20 – God reconciled all things to Himself by making peace through Jesus’ blood

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse reminds us that our faith is not based on rituals or places here on earth. It is based on a perfect Savior who entered heaven for us. He didn’t just clean us up outwardly—He opened the way for us to truly stand before God.

Because of Jesus, we don’t need to go through priests or sacrifices. The work is finished. We can come to God freely—see –Hebrews 10:19-22. That gives us confidence and peace, even when we feel unworthy.

We don’t need to go back to old systems or try to fix ourselves. Jesus has already done everything needed for us to be welcomed by God.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God didn’t leave us trapped in rituals that couldn’t save. He gave a better way—a complete way. He didn’t wait for us to climb up to Him. He sent His Son to come down, shed His blood, and open heaven for us.

That’s love in action. God went beyond symbols. He gave the real thing: His Son, His presence, and a place in His eternal home.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the One who offered the better sacrifice. He didn’t just cleanse the outside of the tabernacle—He made a way for people to be made clean forever. His blood doesn’t just fix what’s broken—it makes all things new.

Because of Jesus, heaven is not just a far-off idea—it’s a real place we are now welcome into. He is our High Priest who entered there first on our behalf—see –Hebrews 6:19-20.

Jesus did what no earthly priest or sacrifice ever could.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

• What does it mean that the earthly tabernacle was only a copy of heavenly things?

• Why was Jesus’ sacrifice better than all the animal sacrifices of the old covenant?

• How does knowing Jesus entered heaven for you give you confidence today?

• Are you relying on “copies” (religious habits, feelings) or on the real work of Jesus?

• How can you live each day in light of the access to God that Jesus has secured?