Leviticus 14:21

If, however, the person is poor and cannot afford these offerings, he is to take one male lamb as a guilt offering to be waved to make atonement for him, along with a tenth of an ephah of fine flour mixed with olive oil for a grain offering, a log of olive oil,

Study Bible

But if he is poor
The Hebrew word for "poor" here is "דַּל" (dal), which signifies someone who is lowly or lacking in resources. This reflects God's compassion and provision for all individuals, regardless of their economic status. The inclusion of the poor in the sacrificial system underscores the principle that atonement and reconciliation with God are accessible to everyone, not just the wealthy. This provision highlights the equitable nature of God's law and His desire for all to be able to participate in worship and receive forgiveness.

and cannot afford these offerings
The phrase indicates a practical consideration within the Levitical law, acknowledging the financial limitations of some individuals. The Hebrew root "נָסַג" (nasag) implies the inability to reach or attain something. This reflects God's understanding of human limitations and His willingness to meet people where they are. It emphasizes that the heart's intention and obedience are more important than the material value of the offering.

he is to take one male lamb
The male lamb, "כֶּבֶשׂ" (keves), is a significant symbol in the sacrificial system, representing innocence and purity. The lamb as a guilt offering points to the necessity of a substitute to bear the consequences of sin. This foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). The requirement of a lamb underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement.

as a guilt offering
The Hebrew term "אָשָׁם" (asham) refers to a specific type of offering made for unintentional sins or breaches of faith. This offering acknowledges the individual's guilt and the need for restitution. It highlights the concept of personal responsibility and the importance of making amends, both to God and to others. The guilt offering serves as a reminder of the holiness of God and the need for His people to live in accordance with His standards.

to be waved
The act of waving, "תְּנוּפָה" (tenuphah), involves a ceremonial presentation of the offering before the Lord. This gesture symbolizes the offering being dedicated to God and His acceptance of it. The waving of the offering signifies the worshiper's acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and the desire for His favor. It is an act of submission and reverence, demonstrating the worshiper's reliance on God's grace.

to make atonement for him
Atonement, "כָּפַר" (kaphar), means to cover or reconcile. This concept is central to the sacrificial system, as it provides a means for restoring the relationship between God and humanity. Atonement involves the removal of sin and its consequences, allowing the individual to be in right standing with God. This points to the ultimate atonement made by Christ, who reconciles us to God through His sacrifice.

a tenth of an ephah of fine flour
The "ephah" is a unit of measure, and the "fine flour" represents the best of one's produce, symbolizing purity and dedication. The offering of flour, "סֹלֶת" (solet), mixed with oil, signifies the worshiper's gratitude and dependence on God's provision. It is a reminder of the daily sustenance God provides and the need to honor Him with the firstfruits of our labor.

mixed with olive oil
Olive oil, "שֶׁמֶן" (shemen), is often associated with anointing and the presence of the Holy Spirit. The mixing of oil with the grain offering signifies the consecration and sanctification of the offering. It represents the work of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life, enabling them to live a life pleasing to God. The use of oil highlights the importance of spiritual anointing and empowerment in the worshiper's relationship with God.

as a grain offering
The grain offering, "מִנְחָה" (minchah), is a voluntary act of worship, expressing devotion and thanksgiving to God. It is an acknowledgment of God's provision and a symbol of the worshiper's commitment to live according to His will. The grain offering complements the sacrificial system by emphasizing the importance of gratitude and dedication in the believer's life. It serves as a reminder that worship involves both sacrifice and thanksgiving.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Leper
The individual who has been cleansed from leprosy and is seeking ritual purification and restoration into the community.

2. The Priest
The mediator who performs the purification rituals and offerings on behalf of the leper.

3. The Tabernacle
The place where the offerings and rituals are conducted, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

4. Offerings
The specific sacrifices and offerings required for the purification process, including a male lamb, fine flour, and olive oil.

5. Atonement
The process of making amends or reparation for sin or impurity, allowing the individual to be reconciled with God and the community.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for the Poor
God makes allowances for those who are financially unable to meet the standard requirements, demonstrating His compassion and understanding of human circumstances.

The Importance of Atonement
Atonement is central to restoring one's relationship with God and the community, underscoring the seriousness of sin and impurity.

Symbolism of the Offerings
Each element of the offering (lamb, flour, oil) has symbolic significance, pointing to the completeness of the atonement process and foreshadowing Christ's ultimate sacrifice.

Community Restoration
The purification process is not just about individual cleansing but also about restoring the person to the community, highlighting the communal aspect of faith.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The Old Testament rituals point forward to Christ, who fulfills the law and provides the ultimate atonement for sin, accessible to all regardless of status.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Leviticus 14:21 demonstrate God's compassion towards those who are financially disadvantaged?

2. In what ways do the offerings in Leviticus 14:21 foreshadow the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ?

3. How can understanding the concept of atonement in Leviticus help us appreciate the work of Christ in the New Testament?

4. What lessons can we learn about community and restoration from the purification process described in Leviticus 14?

5. How can we apply the principles of compassion and provision for the poor, as seen in Leviticus 14:21, in our church and community today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 5:7-13
Discusses provisions for those who cannot afford the standard offerings, emphasizing God's compassion and provision for the poor.

Luke 2:24
Mary and Joseph offer a pair of doves or two young pigeons, indicating their humble financial status, similar to the provision in Leviticus 14:21.

Hebrews 9:13-14
Compares the purification rituals of the Old Testament with the ultimate purification through Christ's sacrifice, highlighting the fulfillment of the law.