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The Holy of Holies

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The Holy of Holies

The Temple Sanctuary was divided into two parts. The inner chamber (one third of the structure) was called the Holy of Holies, and the outer chamber (two thirds of the structure) was called the Holy. The Holy of Holies was the place dedicated to the revelation of the covenant between God and the Jews. Because it was so holy, only the High Priest was allowed to enter it, and even he could enter only once a year, on Yom Kippur.

Since the covenant is expressed through the Torah, the Ark of the Covenant – containing a Torah scroll and the Tablets of the Covenant Moses received at Sinai – was housed in the Holy of Holies. The Ark had a golden cover upon which were two cherubs in the form of a loving couple, a male and a female, symbolizing the loving relationship between God and His people Israel. As it says, “As a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will your God rejoice over you” (Isaiah 62:5). The presence of this form in the Holy of Holies also expressed the great sanctity of marriage. Not only can joyous love shared by husband and wife bring life to the world, but their monogamy can serve as a reminder of monotheism. This may be hinted at in the Sages' statement that if a husband and wife are blessed with true love, the Divine Presence is with them (8:1 above).

Thus, the Holy of Holies was the place for the revelation of the covenant between God and the Jews, a covenant all about faith in God and the sanctity of the Jewish people. These exalted values continue to be expressed through the Torah and through marriage.

The Three Vessels of the Holy The Three Vessels of the Holy The Table The Menora The Incense Altar The Outer Altar and Sacrifice The Basin and the Women’s Mirrors The Daily Offering and the Incense The Spiritual Center First Fruits Inspiration from the Temple Inspiration from the Temple Service Ritual Purity The Temple Mount Commemorating the Destruction When the Jews Walk in God’s Ways