Hebrews 9:18

18 This is why even the first covenant was not put into effect without blood.

Hebrews 9:18 in Other Translations

18 Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood.

18 Therefore not even the first covenant was inaugurated without blood.

18 That is why even the first covenant was put into effect with the blood of an animal.

18 Even the first plan required a death to set it in motion.

18 That is why even the first covenant was inaugurated with blood.

Hebrews 9:18 Meaning and Commentary

Hebrews 9:18

Whereupon neither the first testament
Or the first administration of the covenant of grace under the law:

was dedicated without blood;
or "confirmed" without it, that dispensation being a typical one; and that blood was typical of the blood of Christ, by which the new covenant or testament is ratified; see ( Exodus 24:7 Exodus 24:8 ) .

Hebrews 9:18 In-Context

16 In the case of a will, it is necessary to prove the death of the one who made it,

17 because a will is in force only when somebody has died; it never takes effect while the one who made it is living.

18 This is why even the first covenant was not put into effect without blood.

19 When Moses had proclaimed every command of the law to all the people, he took the blood of calves, together with water, scarlet wool and branches of hyssop, and sprinkled the scroll and all the people.

20 He said, “This is the blood of the covenant, which God has commanded you to keep.”

Cross References

• 1. Exodus 24:6-8