When did the veil tear in the Bible? This question has intrigued Christians for centuries, as it marks a significant event that symbolizes the breaking down of barriers between God and humanity. The veil refers to the thick, curtain that separated the Holy of Holies in the Temple of Jerusalem, which was only accessible to the high priest once a year on the Day of Atonement. The Bible describes the tearing of this veil as a moment of profound significance, signifying the opening of a new way for believers to approach God. Let’s delve into the details of this remarkable event and its implications for Christian faith.
The tearing of the veil is recorded in the New Testament, specifically in the book of Matthew, chapter 27, verse 51. According to the account, Jesus Christ, while crucified on the cross, exclaimed, “It is finished!” (John 19:30) and then, “the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom” (Matthew 27:51). This event occurred at the moment of Jesus’ death, around 3 PM on Friday, April 3, 33 AD, according to the traditional dating of the crucifixion.
The tearing of the veil had profound symbolic meaning. In the Old Testament, the veil represented the barrier between the earthly sanctuary and the Holy of Holies, where God’s presence was believed to dwell. Only the high priest could enter the Holy of Holies, and only once a year, on the Day of Atonement, to atone for the sins of the people. The veil symbolized the separation between God and humanity due to sin.
The tearing of the veil, therefore, signifies the removal of this barrier. It symbolizes the fact that through Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection, believers have direct access to God. The apostle Paul emphasizes this point in his letter to the Hebrews, stating, “Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:14-16).
The tearing of the veil also signifies the end of the Old Covenant and the beginning of the New Covenant. Jesus Christ, as the ultimate sacrifice for sins, has established a new relationship between God and humanity. The apostle Paul further explains this in his letter to the Galatians: “For through the law I died to the law, so that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:19-20).
In conclusion, the question “when did the veil tear in the Bible?” points to a pivotal moment in Christian history—the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The tearing of the veil symbolizes the removal of barriers between God and humanity, the establishment of the New Covenant, and the direct access believers now have to God. This event remains a cornerstone of Christian faith and a testament to the transformative power of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice.
