Hebrews 9:18

This explains why even the first covenant was not ratified without the shedding of blood.

Open English Bible (US)

In The King James Version

Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood.

In Context

17For such a covenant takes effect only on death, it does not come into force as long as the testator is alive.

19For, when every command had been announced to all the people by Moses in accordance with the Law, he took the blood of the calves and of the goats, with water, scarlet wool, and a bunch of hyssop, and sprinkled even the book of the Law, as well as all the people,

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Cross References

Hebrews 8:7If that first covenant had been faultless, there would have been no occasion for a second.

Hebrews 9:22Indeed, under the Law, almost everything is purified with blood; and, unless blood is shed, no forgiveness is to be obtained.

Matthew Henry on Hebrews 9:16-23

The Priesthood of Christ. ( a. d. 62.) 15 And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. 16 For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. 17 For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth. 18 Whereupon neither the first… Read the whole commentary →

This Verse In Other Editions

Study Hebrews 9:18