Leviticus 14:20

and offer it on the altar, with the grain offering, to make atonement for him, and he will be clean.

Study Bible

Then the priest
The role of the priest in ancient Israel was pivotal, serving as a mediator between God and the people. The Hebrew word for priest, "kohen," signifies one who is set apart for sacred duties. In the context of Leviticus, the priest's responsibilities included performing rituals that symbolized purification and reconciliation with God. This highlights the importance of spiritual leadership and the necessity of a divinely appointed mediator in the process of atonement.

is to offer
The act of offering in Hebrew, "qarab," means to bring near or present. This signifies the priest's role in bringing the offerings before God, symbolizing the people's desire to draw near to Him. The offering is not merely a ritualistic act but a profound expression of faith and obedience, acknowledging God's holiness and the need for His mercy.

the burnt offering
The burnt offering, or "olah" in Hebrew, was a sacrifice that was completely consumed by fire on the altar. It represents total dedication and surrender to God. Historically, the burnt offering was a common practice in ancient Near Eastern cultures, but in Israel, it held a unique significance as a means of atonement and worship, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

and the grain offering
The grain offering, known as "minchah" in Hebrew, was a tribute to God, often consisting of fine flour, oil, and frankincense. It symbolized the fruits of human labor and gratitude for God's provision. This offering underscores the principle of giving back to God from the blessings He has bestowed, reflecting a heart of thankfulness and dependence on His sustenance.

on the altar
The altar, or "mizbeach" in Hebrew, was the sacred place where offerings were made to God. It served as a physical representation of divine presence and a focal point for worship. The altar's centrality in the sacrificial system highlights the necessity of approaching God on His terms, through prescribed means, which foreshadows the ultimate altar of the cross.

Thus the priest will make atonement
Atonement, "kaphar" in Hebrew, means to cover or reconcile. The priest's role in making atonement was to mediate the restoration of the relationship between the individual and God. This act of atonement prefigures the ultimate atonement made by Jesus Christ, who, as our High Priest, reconciles us to God through His sacrifice.

for him
The personal nature of atonement is emphasized here. It is not a generic or abstract concept but a specific act for the individual. This underscores the personal relationship God desires with each person and the personal responsibility each has to seek reconciliation with Him.

and he will be clean
The concept of being clean, "tahor" in Hebrew, signifies ritual purity and the removal of defilement. In the Levitical system, cleanliness was essential for participating in the community and worship. Spiritually, it points to the cleansing from sin that believers receive through faith in Christ, enabling them to stand blameless before God. This promise of cleansing is a profound assurance of God's grace and the transformative power of His forgiveness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priest
A mediator between God and the people, responsible for performing the sacrificial rituals to ensure the atonement and cleansing of individuals.

2. The Altar
A sacred place where offerings and sacrifices are made to God, symbolizing His presence and the means of atonement.

3. The Burnt Offering
A sacrificial offering completely consumed by fire, representing total dedication and surrender to God.

4. The Grain Offering
An offering of fine flour, oil, and frankincense, symbolizing thanksgiving and devotion to God.

5. Atonement and Cleansing
The process by which the priest makes the individual ceremonially clean, restoring their relationship with God and the community.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Priest
The priest acts as an intermediary, pointing to the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who intercedes for us.

Significance of Sacrifice
Sacrifices in the Old Testament foreshadow the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, emphasizing the need for atonement and reconciliation with God.

Symbolism of Cleansing
The cleansing process signifies spiritual renewal and restoration, reminding us of the importance of purity in our walk with God.

Total Dedication to God
The burnt offering represents complete surrender to God, challenging us to live lives fully devoted to Him.

Gratitude and Devotion
The grain offering symbolizes thanksgiving, encouraging us to express gratitude and devotion in our daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 14:20 foreshadow the work of Jesus Christ as our High Priest?

2. In what ways can the concept of atonement in Leviticus 14:20 be applied to our understanding of Christ's sacrifice?

3. How does the symbolism of the burnt offering challenge us to live lives of total dedication to God today?

4. What practical steps can we take to express gratitude and devotion to God, similar to the grain offering?

5. How can the process of cleansing in Leviticus 14:20 inspire us to seek spiritual renewal and purity in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 1:3-4
Describes the burnt offering and its role in atonement, highlighting the importance of sacrifice in maintaining a relationship with God.

Hebrews 9:13-14
Connects the Old Testament sacrifices to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who provides eternal redemption and cleansing.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the total dedication symbolized by the burnt offering.