V. 9.— Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience. The Mosaic tabernacle was a figure or parable for the time then present, in or during which time [Which may refer either to the time, or, as our translators appear to have understood it, to the tabernacle; but, by the gender of the pronoun, the former appears to be intended.] both gifts and sacrifices were offered, which could not give the worshipper the answer of a good conscience, because the blood of bulls and goats could never take away sin; they only sanctified to the purifying of the flesh, removing ceremonial uncleanness, and fitting the Israelites to unite in the Mosaic worship,