Leviticus 4:24

He is to lay his hand on the head of the goat and slaughter it at the place where the burnt offering is slaughtered before the LORD. It is a sin offering.

Study Bible

He is to lay his hand on the head of the goat
This act of laying hands is deeply symbolic, representing the transfer of the individual's sin to the animal. The Hebrew word for "lay" is "samakh," which implies a firm pressing, indicating the seriousness of the act. This ritual signifies identification with the sacrifice, acknowledging personal sin and the need for atonement. Historically, this practice underscores the gravity of sin and the necessity of a substitute to bear the penalty, foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

and slaughter it
The Hebrew word for "slaughter" is "shachat," which means to kill or butcher. This act is not merely a ritualistic formality but a vivid reminder of the cost of sin. The life of the animal is given in place of the sinner, pointing to the sacrificial system's role in maintaining a relationship with God. It prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who was slaughtered for our transgressions, fulfilling the law's demands once and for all.

in the place where the burnt offering is slaughtered
This phrase indicates the specific location within the tabernacle or temple where sacrifices were made. The burnt offering, or "olah" in Hebrew, was a symbol of complete surrender to God. By slaughtering the sin offering in the same place, it emphasizes the connection between atonement and dedication to God. Archaeological findings suggest that these designated areas were meticulously maintained, highlighting the sacredness of the sacrificial process.

before the LORD
The phrase "before the LORD" signifies that the act is done in the presence of God, acknowledging His holiness and the need for reconciliation. The Hebrew term "lifnei YHWH" implies a direct encounter with the divine, reminding the Israelites that their actions are observed by God. This awareness of God's presence is a call to live righteously and seek His forgiveness earnestly.

It is a sin offering
The term "sin offering" comes from the Hebrew "chatat," which means to purify or make amends. This offering was specifically for unintentional sins, highlighting God's provision for human frailty. The sin offering underscores the seriousness of sin and the necessity of purification to maintain fellowship with God. In the New Testament, this concept is fulfilled in Christ, who is our sin offering, cleansing us from all unrighteousness and restoring us to a right relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priest
The individual responsible for performing the sacrificial rituals, acting as a mediator between the people and God.

2. The Goat
The animal used for the sin offering, symbolizing the transfer of sin from the person to the sacrifice.

3. The Altar
The designated place for sacrifices, representing the presence of God and the place of atonement.

4. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who prescribes the sacrificial system for atonement and reconciliation.

5. The Sin Offering
A specific type of sacrifice intended to atone for unintentional sins and restore the relationship between the sinner and God.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Priest
The priest acts as an intermediary, highlighting the need for a mediator in our relationship with God. In the New Testament, Jesus is our High Priest, who intercedes on our behalf.

The Significance of the Sin Offering
The sin offering underscores the seriousness of sin and the necessity of atonement. It points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who takes away the sins of the world.

The Act of Laying Hands
This act symbolizes the transfer of sin from the individual to the sacrifice. It reminds us of the importance of acknowledging our sins and the need for a substitute to bear our iniquities.

The Place of Sacrifice
The designated place for sacrifice signifies the holiness of God and the need for a specific approach to Him. It teaches us about the reverence and respect required in our worship and relationship with God.

The Continuity of God's Plan
The sacrificial system in Leviticus is part of God's redemptive plan, culminating in Christ's sacrifice. It encourages us to see the Bible as a unified account of redemption.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 4:24 foreshadow the role of Jesus as our High Priest in the New Testament?

2. In what ways does the sin offering in Leviticus point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ?

3. What is the significance of laying hands on the goat, and how can this practice inform our understanding of confession and repentance today?

4. How does the concept of a designated place for sacrifice in the Old Testament relate to the way we approach God in worship now?

5. How can understanding the sacrificial system in Leviticus enhance our appreciation of Christ's atoning work on the cross?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 9
This chapter discusses the limitations of the Old Testament sacrificial system and how it points to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who provides a perfect and eternal atonement.

Isaiah 53
The prophecy of the suffering servant, which foreshadows Christ as the ultimate sin offering, bearing the iniquities of humanity.

1 John 1:9
Emphasizes the confession of sins and God's faithfulness to forgive, connecting the Old Testament practice of atonement with New Testament teachings on forgiveness through Christ.