[9:1] Now even the first covenant had regulations for worship and an earthly place of holiness.
[9:2] For a tent was prepared, the first section, in which were the lampstand and the table and the bread of the Presence. It is called the Holy Place.
[9:3] Behind the second curtain was a second section called the Most Holy Place,
[9:4] having the golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant covered on all sides with gold, in which was a golden urn holding the manna, and Aaron’s staff that budded, and the tablets of the covenant.
[9:5] Above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat. Of these things we cannot now speak in detail.
[9:6] These preparations having thus been made, the priests go regularly into the first section, performing their ritual duties,
[9:7] but into the second only the high priest goes, and he but once a year, and not without taking blood, which he offers for himself and for the unintentional sins of the people.
[9:8] By this the Holy Spirit indicates that the way into the holy places is not yet opened as long as the first section is still standing
[9:9] (which is symbolic for the present age). According to this arrangement, gifts and sacrifices are offered that cannot perfect the conscience of the worshiper,
[9:10] but deal only with food and drink and various washings, regulations for the body imposed until the time of reformation.