Hebrews 9:5 – Above the ark were the cherubim of the Glory, overshadowing the atonement cover. But we cannot discuss these things in detail now.

Extended Explanation of the Verse

This verse continues the description of the Most Holy Place in the tabernacle. Above the ark of the covenant was the atonement cover—also known as the mercy seat. This was the gold lid of the ark where the high priest would sprinkle blood once a year on the Day of Atonement—see –Leviticus 16:14-15.

Over the mercy seat were two golden cherubim, which are angelic beings. They were symbols of God’s heavenly presence and holiness. Their wings stretched out and covered the mercy seat—see –Exodus 25:18-20. This whole arrangement represented the throne of God, where His presence would dwell in a special way.

At the end of the verse, the writer of Hebrews says, “But we cannot discuss these things in detail now.” That means the focus isn’t just on the tabernacle details, but on what they point to—something greater found in Christ.

Historical Context

God gave Moses exact instructions for building the ark and the mercy seat—see –Exodus 25:10-22. The ark was not just a storage chest for sacred objects; it was the meeting place between God and His people. God told Moses that He would speak to him from above the atonement cover between the cherubim—see –Exodus 25:22.

On the Day of Atonement, the high priest would enter the Most Holy Place, sprinkle blood on the atonement cover, and seek forgiveness for the people’s sins. It was a solemn and sacred moment. No one else could enter. Everything about this setup emphasized the holiness of God and the seriousness of sin.

Theological Implications

This verse points us to the reality that access to God requires a covering for sin. The atonement cover wasn’t just a lid; it was the place where the blood of a sacrifice was presented to satisfy the justice of God. The cherubim symbolized God’s holy presence watching over this process.

It shows that sin creates a barrier between us and God, and that forgiveness requires the shedding of blood—see –Hebrews 9:22. But it also shows God’s mercy. Instead of judging His people right away, He provided a way for their sins to be covered.

Literary Analysis

The verse is detailed and reverent in tone. It lists the final part of the tabernacle’s furnishings and then quickly shifts with the phrase, “we cannot discuss these things in detail now.” That signals to the reader that these items are not the end of the story. They are a setup for something greater.

The language builds a picture of mystery, glory, and sacredness, but the author’s intention is to move the reader forward—to Jesus, who fulfills all of this.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• –Exodus 25:18-22 – Instructions for making the cherubim and the mercy seat

• –Leviticus 16:14-15 – The high priest sprinkles blood on the atonement cover

• –1 Kings 8:6-7 – Cherubim in Solomon’s temple

• –Psalm 99:1 – The Lord is enthroned between the cherubim

• –Hebrews 9:22 – Without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness

• –Romans 3:25 – God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse reminds Christians today that God’s presence is holy and pure, and approaching Him is not something to take lightly. In the Old Testament, only one man could enter His presence once a year, and only with blood. That shows how serious sin is.

But now, through Jesus, we don’t come trembling once a year—we come boldly through faith in Him—see –Hebrews 4:16. Jesus didn’t just sprinkle blood; He offered Himself. We now have full access to God because the real mercy seat is no longer covered in animal blood, but fulfilled in the sacrifice of Christ.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Even though God is holy and just, He did not leave people without hope. The atonement cover was His way of saying, “I will make a way for you to be forgiven.” Instead of punishing His people, He allowed for a substitute.

That’s mercy. And it’s a reflection of God’s love. From the very beginning, God was pointing to His desire to dwell with His people, to forgive them, and to restore the relationship broken by sin.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the true and final atonement. –Romans 3:25 says that God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, using the same language that describes the mercy seat. The blood that was sprinkled once a year is now replaced by the perfect, once-for-all blood of Jesus—see –Hebrews 9:12.

And Jesus doesn’t stand outside the Most Holy Place—He entered heaven itself on our behalf—see –Hebrews 9:24. He is the High Priest, the sacrifice, and the fulfillment of everything the ark and its cover pointed to.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

• What do the cherubim and mercy seat teach us about God’s holiness and mercy?

• Why did God require blood to be placed on the atonement cover?

• How does knowing these details deepen your understanding of what Jesus did on the cross?

• How can you approach God with reverence while also being confident in His love?

• In what ways do you still try to “cover” your own sin instead of trusting in Christ’s atonement?