A.T. Robertson Commentary Hebrews 9:18

"Wherefore even the first [covenant] hath not been dedicated without blood." — Hebrews 9:18 (ASV)

The first covenant (η πρωτη). Supply διαθηκη as in 9:1.

Has been dedicated (ενκεκαινιστα). Stands dedicated. Perfect passive indicative of ενκαινιζο, a late verb in LXX, one papyrus, and in N.T. only here and 10:20. It means to renew, to inaugurate (1 Samuel 11:14; 2 Chronicles 15:8) and in 1 Kings 8:63 to dedicate. Note τα ενκαινια (John 10:22) for the feast of dedication.