Leviticus 16:10

But the goat chosen by lot as the scapegoat shall be presented alive before the LORD to make atonement by sending it into the wilderness as the scapegoat.

Study Bible

But the goat chosen by lot
The phrase "chosen by lot" refers to the ancient practice of casting lots to discern God's will. In Hebrew, the word for "lot" is "goral," which signifies a small stone or object used in decision-making. This method underscores the belief in divine sovereignty, where God directly influences the outcome. The use of lots in this context emphasizes that the selection of the scapegoat was not a human decision but a divine one, ensuring that the ritual was carried out according to God's specific instructions.

as the scapegoat
The term "scapegoat" is derived from the Hebrew word "Azazel," which has been subject to various interpretations. Some scholars suggest it refers to a rocky, desolate place, while others propose it might be a name for a demonic entity or a symbolic representation of sin. Theologically, the scapegoat represents the removal of sin from the community, as it bears the iniquities of the people and is sent away, symbolizing the complete separation of sin from the Israelites.

shall be presented alive before the LORD
The phrase "presented alive before the LORD" indicates that the scapegoat was brought into the presence of God, signifying its role in the atonement process. The Hebrew word for "presented" is "amad," meaning to stand or remain. This act of presenting the goat alive highlights the living nature of the offering, contrasting with the sacrificial goat that was killed. It underscores the idea that life is required to bear and remove sin, pointing forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who was both the living and sacrificial offering.

to make atonement
"Atonement" in Hebrew is "kaphar," which means to cover or to purge. This concept is central to the Day of Atonement, where the sins of the people are symbolically covered and removed. The act of atonement through the scapegoat illustrates the necessity of dealing with sin in a manner that satisfies divine justice, foreshadowing the complete atonement achieved through Jesus Christ, who covers and cleanses believers from all unrighteousness.

by sending it into the wilderness
The "wilderness" represents a place of desolation and separation, often associated with chaos and the absence of God's order. In sending the scapegoat into the wilderness, the Israelites symbolically transferred their sins to a place far removed from the community. This act signifies the removal of sin and its consequences, illustrating the biblical theme of God separating His people from their transgressions "as far as the east is from the west" (Psalm 103:12).

as a scapegoat
Reiterating the role of the scapegoat, this phrase emphasizes the complete and final removal of sin. The repetition serves to reinforce the significance of the ritual and its implications for the community. In a broader theological context, the scapegoat prefigures Christ, who bore the sins of humanity and was "led like a lamb to the slaughter" (Isaiah 53:7), taking upon Himself the iniquities of all and removing them through His sacrificial death and resurrection.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The High Priest
The central figure in the Day of Atonement rituals, responsible for performing the sacrifices and sending the scapegoat into the wilderness.

2. The Scapegoat (Azazel)
A goat chosen by lot to symbolically carry the sins of the people into the wilderness, representing the removal of sin from the community.

3. The Wilderness
A desolate place where the scapegoat is sent, symbolizing the separation of sin from the people of Israel.

4. The LORD
The divine presence before whom the atonement is made, emphasizing the sacredness and seriousness of the ritual.

5. The People of Israel
The community for whom the atonement is made, highlighting the collective nature of sin and forgiveness.

Teaching Points

Understanding Atonement
The scapegoat ritual illustrates the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. It points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who bore our sins.

Symbolism of the Wilderness
The wilderness represents separation and desolation, reminding us of the consequences of sin and the grace of God in removing it from us.

Community and Sin
The collective nature of the Day of Atonement highlights the impact of sin on the community and the importance of communal repentance and forgiveness.

God's Provision for Sin
The provision of the scapegoat shows God's desire to cleanse His people and restore them to Himself, foreshadowing the redemptive work of Christ.

Living in Freedom
Just as the scapegoat carried away the sins of Israel, believers are called to live in the freedom from sin provided by Christ's atonement.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the scapegoat in Leviticus 16:10 help us understand the concept of atonement in the Old Testament?

2. In what ways does the sending of the scapegoat into the wilderness parallel the work of Christ as described in the New Testament?

3. How can the communal aspect of the Day of Atonement inform our understanding of sin and repentance in the church today?

4. What does the wilderness symbolize in the context of the scapegoat, and how can this symbolism be applied to our personal spiritual journey?

5. How can we live in the freedom from sin that Christ provides, as illustrated by the scapegoat carrying away the sins of Israel?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 9:11-14
This passage connects the Day of Atonement rituals to the ultimate atonement made by Christ, who entered the heavenly sanctuary once for all.

Isaiah 53:6
This verse speaks of the Messiah bearing the iniquities of us all, paralleling the scapegoat's role in carrying away the sins of the people.

Psalm 103:12
This verse illustrates the concept of God removing our transgressions as far as the east is from the west, akin to the scapegoat carrying sins into the wilderness.