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ἅγιον (hagion)

hagion

Holy Place

G0039 · Greek · New Testament · 10 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
10 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The neuter form hagion refers to something set apart as sacred and worthy of deep reverence because of its connection to God. While the masculine hagios often describes people or moral purity, this specific ending frequently points to places or objects consecrated for divine use. In the New Testament it appears ten times, most notably in Hebrews, where it identifies the "Holy Place" within the earthly tabernacle (Hebrews 9:1).

Its root sense involves being separated from the common world and dedicated to the divine. This distinguishes it from words meaning simply clean or morally upright; hagion carries the weight of inviolability. Just as the Temple was a space where God’s presence dwelt, the term marks anything that belongs exclusively to Him, demanding respect rather than casual handling.

Translators usually render this word as "holy" when describing sacred spaces or things. The emphasis lies not on ethical behavior but on status. It signals that an object or location has been claimed by God, setting it apart from ordinary use and marking it as a place of awe and veneration.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word hagion points to a space set apart for God’s presence. In the Old Testament, this was the Holy Place within the tabernacle, a restricted area where only priests could enter. It reminds us that God is not distant or indifferent, but dwells among His people in a way that demands reverence and care.

In Hebrews, this earthly pattern finds its fulfillment in Jesus. He did not enter a man-made sanctuary, but heaven itself, securing eternal redemption for us. This means the barrier between humanity and God has been removed. We are invited to approach with confidence, not because we are perfect, but because Christ has opened the way.

This truth offers deep comfort. You do not need to earn access to God’s presence; it is given through faith in Jesus. As you read Scripture, remember that this word speaks of safety, holiness, and intimate connection with the Creator who loves you.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 10 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Holy [Places]7×
  • of Holies1×
  • [the] Holy [Places].1×
  • Holy [Place]1×
  • Holies1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • ἅγια5×
  • ἁγίων4×
  • ἅγιον1×
  • ἅγια.1×

Key Verses

  • Hebrews 9:12
    nor yet through the blood of goats and calves, but through his own blood, entered in once for all into the Holy Place, having obtained eternal redemption.

    This verse highlights the contrast between repeated animal sacrifices and Christ’s single entry into the true Holy Place, securing eternal redemption.

  • Hebrews 10:19
    Having therefore, brothers, boldness to enter into the holy place by the blood of Jesus,

    Here the term encourages believers to enter boldly into God’s presence through Jesus’ blood, showing the new access granted to all who believe.

  • Hebrews 8:2
    a servant of the sanctuary and of the true tabernacle which the Lord pitched, not man.

    It identifies Jesus as a minister in the true tabernacle, establishing His superior priesthood over the earthly system.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does hagion mean in the New Testament?

It refers to a sacred place or object set apart for God’s use. In Hebrews, it specifically denotes the Holy Place within the tabernacle and, ultimately, heaven itself where Christ ministers.

How is hagion different from hagios?

Hagion is neuter and often describes places or things, while hagios is masculine/feminine and typically describes people or moral purity. Both share the root meaning of being set apart for God.

Why is this word important in Hebrews?

It shows how Jesus fulfills the Old Testament tabernacle system. By entering the true Holy Place, He provides direct access to God for all believers, replacing the old restrictions.

Every Occurrence (10 verses across 1 books)

Hebrews 10 verses
Hebrews 8:2

a servant of the sanctuary and of the true tabernacle which the Lord pitched, not man.

Hebrews 9:1

Now indeed even the first covenant had ordinances of divine service and an earthly sanctuary.

Hebrews 9:2

For a tabernacle was prepared. In the first part were the lamp stand, the table, and the show bread, which is called…

Hebrews 9:3

After the second veil was the tabernacle which is called the Holy of Holies,

Hebrews 9:8

The Holy Spirit is indicating this, that the way into the Holy Place wasn’t yet revealed while the first tabernacle was…

Hebrews 9:12

nor yet through the blood of goats and calves, but through his own blood, entered in once for all into the Holy Place,…

Hebrews 9:24

For Christ hasn’t entered into holy places made with hands, which are representations of the true, but into heaven…

Hebrews 9:25

nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest enters into the holy place year by year with blood not…

Hebrews 10:19

Having therefore, brothers, boldness to enter into the holy place by the blood of Jesus,

Hebrews 13:11

For the bodies of those animals, whose blood is brought into the holy place by the high priest as an offering for sin,…