Leviticus 4:11

But the hide of the bull and all its flesh, with its head and legs and its entrails and dung--

Study Bible

But the hide of the bull
The Hebrew word for "hide" is "עֹור" (or), which refers to the skin or outer covering of the animal. In the context of Levitical sacrifices, the hide of the bull was not burned on the altar but was taken outside the camp. This act symbolizes the removal of sin from the community, as the bull represents the sin offering. The bull, a significant and valuable animal, underscores the seriousness of sin and the costliness of atonement. The hide, being the outermost layer, can also symbolize the external nature of sin that must be dealt with.

and all its flesh
The term "flesh" in Hebrew is "בָּשָׂר" (basar), which denotes the meat or body of the animal. In the sacrificial system, the flesh of the sin offering was not consumed by the priests, as was the case with other offerings. Instead, it was burned outside the camp, signifying the complete removal and destruction of sin. This act prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who bore our sins outside the city gates, as described in Hebrews 13:11-12.

with its head and legs
The head and legs of the bull, mentioned specifically, indicate the totality of the offering. The head, representing leadership and authority, and the legs, symbolizing movement and action, together suggest that every aspect of the bull is involved in the sin offering. This comprehensive inclusion highlights the thoroughness required in dealing with sin, leaving no part untouched or unaddressed.

and its entrails
The Hebrew word for "entrails" is "קֶרֶב" (qereb), referring to the inner parts or organs. In the sacrificial context, the entrails often symbolize the innermost thoughts and intentions of a person. By including the entrails in the sin offering, the text emphasizes that atonement must reach the deepest parts of our being, purifying not just outward actions but also internal motives and desires.

and dung
The mention of "dung" (Hebrew: "פֶּרֶשׁ" peresh) underscores the impurity associated with sin. Dung, being waste material, represents the defilement and uncleanness that sin brings into the community. Its removal and burning outside the camp signify the need for purification and the complete eradication of sin's defiling effects. This act serves as a powerful reminder of the holiness required by God and the lengths to which He goes to cleanse His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God on Mount Sinai and communicated them to the Israelites.

2. Aaron and His Sons
The priests who were responsible for carrying out the sacrificial rituals as outlined in Leviticus.

3. The Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites, where sacrifices were offered.

4. The Sin Offering
A specific type of sacrifice described in Leviticus, intended to atone for unintentional sins of the people.

5. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given the laws to follow as part of their covenant relationship with Him.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Sin Offering
The sin offering in Leviticus 4 highlights the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. It points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fulfills the law and provides a way for reconciliation with God.

The Role of the Priest
The priests acted as mediators between God and the people. In the New Testament, Jesus is our High Priest, who intercedes on our behalf.

The Symbolism of the Sacrifice
The detailed description of the sacrifice, including the removal of the hide and flesh, symbolizes the complete removal of sin. This foreshadows the complete cleansing available through Christ.

Holiness and Purity
The sacrificial system underscores God's holiness and the need for His people to be pure. As believers, we are called to live holy lives, set apart for God.

Confession and Repentance
The sin offering required acknowledgment of sin. Today, we are called to confess our sins and turn to Christ for forgiveness and transformation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the sin offering in Leviticus 4:11 point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ?

2. In what ways does the role of the priest in Leviticus compare to the role of Jesus as our High Priest?

3. How can understanding the symbolism of the sin offering deepen our appreciation for Christ's sacrifice?

4. What steps can we take to live a life of holiness and purity in light of the sacrificial system described in Leviticus?

5. How does the practice of confession and repentance play a role in our daily walk with God, and how is it supported by other scriptures?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 10
Discusses the insufficiency of animal sacrifices and points to Christ as the ultimate sacrifice for sin.

Isaiah 53
Describes the suffering servant, a prophecy of Jesus, who bears the sins of many.

Romans 3
Explains the concept of all having sinned and the need for redemption through Jesus Christ.

1 John 1
Emphasizes the confession of sins and the faithfulness of God to forgive through Jesus.

Psalm 51
David's prayer of repentance, highlighting the importance of a contrite heart over ritual sacrifice.