One of the most notable features of the book is what may be called its spiritual meaning. That so elaborate a ritual looked beyond itself, we cannot doubt. It was a prophecy of things to come; a shadow whereof the substance was Christ and his kingdom.

We may not always be able to say what the exact relation is between the type and the antitype; but we cannot read the Epistle to the Hebrews and not acknowledge that the Levitical priests "served the pattern and type of heavenly things;" that the sacrifices of the law pointed to and found their interpretation in the Lamb of God; that the ordinances of outward purification signified the true inner cleansing of the heart and conscience from dead works to serve the living God.

One idea -- Holiness -- moreover penetrates the whole of this vast and burdensome ceremonial, and gives it a real glory even apart from any prophetic significance.