NOW the first had indeed also ordinances of service, and the worldly sanctuary. (2)For a tabernacle was prepared; the first, wherein is the lamp-stand, and the table, and the show-bread; which is called holy. (3)And after the second vail, the tabernacle which is called most holy, (4)having a golden altar of incense, and the ark of the covenant overlaid on every side with gold, wherein was the golden pot containing the manna, and the rod of Aaron which budded, and the tables of the covenant; (5)and above it the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy-seat; of which we can not now speak particularly. (6)Now these things being thus prepared, into the first tabernacle the priests enter at all times, performing the services; (7)but into the second, the high priest alone, once every year, not without blood, which he offers for himself, and for the errors of the people; (8)the Holy Spirit signifying this, that the way into the holy places has not yet been made manifest, while the first tabernacle is yet standing; (9)which is a figure for the time present, under which are offered both gifts and sacrifices, unable as to the conscience to perfect the worshiper; (10)only with meats and drinks[9:10], and divers immersions, ordinances of the flesh, imposed until the time of reformation. (11)But Christ, having come as a high priest of the good things to come, through the greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands (that is, not of this creation), (12)and not through the blood of goats and calves but through his own blood, entered once for all into the holy places, obtaining eternal redemption. (13)For if the blood of goats and bulls, and ashes of a heifer sprinkling those who have been defiled, sanctifies to the purity of the flesh; (14)how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? (15)And for this cause he is mediator of a new covenant, in order that, death having taken place, for the redemption of the transgressions under the first covenant, they who have been called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance. (16)For where there is a testament[9:16], there must also of necessity be brought in the death of the testator. (17)For a testament is of force after men are dead; since it is of no strength at all while the testator lives.