Hebrews 9:22

And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.

Hebrews 9:22 (KJV)

Context

In Hebrews 9, the author compares the old covenant’s sacrificial system with the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. He presents Christ as the ultimate high priest who offers a superior sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins. The verse concludes a sustained argument that the blood of Christ is the means of atonement, surpassing the repeated and imperfect sacrifices of the law.

Meaning

The verse begins with the phrase “almost all things are by the law purged with blood.” Under the Old Testament law, most purification rituals required the shedding of blood. The word “almost” is significant, for it acknowledges exceptions: some things were cleansed with water and others by fire, as seen in Numbers 31:23. Yet blood remained the dominant and necessary means for atonement.

The second clause states, “without shedding of blood is no remission.” This establishes a foundational principle: the remission, or forgiveness, of sins is impossible without the shedding of blood. This principle is rooted in the Old Testament sacrificial system, where the life of the flesh is in the blood, and it is the blood that makes atonement for the soul (Leviticus 17:11). The verse moves from the general practice under the law to the absolute necessity of blood for forgiveness.

Biblical connections

The author of Hebrews contrasts the temporary and symbolic nature of the old covenant sacrifices with the permanent and effective sacrifice of Christ. While the blood of bulls and goats could not truly take away sins, the blood of Christ, offered without spot to God, purges the conscience from dead works. His sacrifice was offered once to bear the sins of many, providing a complete and final atonement that the law only foreshadowed.

Application

Hebrews 9:22 reminds believers of the significance and value of Jesus’ sacrifice. It highlights the necessity of His blood for the remission of sins and emphasizes His unique role as the perfect and eternal High Priest. By recognizing and accepting the efficacy of His sacrifice, believers can receive forgiveness, salvation, and the assurance of eternal life.

Reflection

This verse calls us to marvel at the cost of our forgiveness. The shedding of blood was not a mere ritual but a profound symbol of life given for life. In Christ, that symbol became reality, securing our cleansing once and for all. As we ponder the necessity of His blood, we are drawn to gratitude and to a deeper trust in the sufficiency of His finished work.