“Then, behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom…” “This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil…” (Matthew 27:51; Hebrews 6:19).
Nothing that occurred on the day of Jesus’ crucifixion was accidental. Though Matthew does not comment on this historical, supernatural act, its powerful, symbolic significance can be gleaned from the teaching contained in the rest of the New Testament.
The veil in the temple separated the presence of God in the Holy of Holies from His people. Only one person—the High Priest—on one specific day of each year—the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur)—could go behind the veil and into the presence of God. This veil, therefore, served as a barrier between the holy God and His imperfect people. Yet, this was the best that could be done with a High Priest taken from the sons of Aaron, of the tribe of Levi.
The tearing of the veil from top to bottom (i.e., a divine action) foreshadowed a major difference facilitated by Jesus, the new covenant’s High Priest, according to the order of Melchizedek: The possibility of intimate, daily fellowship with the holy God by every one of His imperfect people.
As Hebrews 7:1-10:18 details in great specificity, Jesus’ High Priesthood is a preeminent and wonderful blessing.
