Hebrews 9:10

Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.

Hebrews 9:10 (KJV)

Context

This verse concludes the author’s description of the Old Covenant tabernacle and its services. The larger passage contrasts the limitations of the Old Covenant, established through Moses and centered on the tabernacle, with the superiority of the New Covenant brought by Jesus Christ. Hebrews 9:10 summarizes the external regulations that characterized the old system.

Meaning

The phrase “Which stood only in meats and drinks” refers to the dietary restrictions and regulations concerning food and drink that were part of the ceremonial laws given to Israel. These included instructions about clean and unclean foods, as detailed in Leviticus 11:2-31. Such regulations were outward and physical, affecting the body rather than the conscience.

The phrase “and divers washings” points to the various ceremonial washings or baptisms that symbolized purification or cleansing. These washings were performed to maintain ritual purity and were an integral part of the religious practices in the tabernacle and later in the temple.

The term “carnal ordinances” describes the external regulations or rituals that were imposed on the people. These were physical in nature, pertaining to the flesh and the outward aspects of worship. Because they were external, they could not make the worshiper perfect in conscience.

The word “imposed” conveys the sense of a burden laid upon the people. The crucial phrase “until the time of reformation” (Greek: “season of rectification”) points to a divinely appointed limit. These ordinances were temporary, in force only until the coming of the new order when the reality would supersede the type. This “time of reformation” is the era inaugurated by Christ, who establishes a better covenant.

Biblical connections

The verse’s function is to show that the old system was never intended to be permanent. It was a preparatory arrangement with a built-in expiration date, pointing forward to the complete new order that Christ would establish. The coming of Jesus Christ brought about a significant change in the way God relates to humanity and the manner in which people approach Him in worship.

Application

Hebrews 9:10 reminds believers of the transformative power of Christ’s sacrifice and the freedom found in the New Covenant. It encourages us to focus on the substance and spiritual significance of our faith rather than getting caught up in external rituals and regulations. The New Covenant, established through Jesus’ sacrificial death and resurrection, brought a greater and more intimate relationship with God, where worship is no longer bound by external rituals but is rooted in faith and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Reflection

Consider how this verse calls us to appreciate the finished work of Christ. The old ordinances were a shadow, but Christ is the substance. Our worship is now spiritual and inward, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and we can approach God with confidence because of the better covenant He has established.