Leviticus 5:10

And the priest must prepare the second bird as a burnt offering according to the ordinance. In this way the priest will make atonement for him for the sin he has committed, and he will be forgiven.

Study Bible

Then he shall prepare
This phrase indicates a specific action required by the priest, emphasizing the importance of following God's instructions precisely. The Hebrew root for "prepare" is "עָשָׂה" (asah), which means to do, make, or accomplish. This reflects the meticulous nature of the sacrificial system, where each step is significant in maintaining the holiness and order prescribed by God.

the second bird
The use of "the second bird" highlights the provision for those who could not afford larger sacrifices, such as a lamb. This demonstrates God's compassion and understanding of human limitations, ensuring that atonement was accessible to all, regardless of economic status. Historically, this provision underscores the inclusivity of God's covenant with Israel.

as a burnt offering
The burnt offering, or "עֹלָה" (olah) in Hebrew, signifies complete surrender to God, as the offering is wholly consumed by fire. This symbolizes the worshiper's total dedication and the desire for purification. The burnt offering is a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament, representing a foundational aspect of Israel's relationship with God.

according to the ordinance
This phrase underscores the importance of adhering to divine instructions. The Hebrew word "מִשְׁפָּט" (mishpat) refers to a judgment or decree, indicating that these rituals were not arbitrary but divinely ordained. This reflects the broader biblical theme of obedience to God's law as a pathway to righteousness and blessing.

In this way the priest will make atonement
The role of the priest as a mediator is central here. The Hebrew word for atonement, "כָּפַר" (kaphar), means to cover or reconcile. This act of atonement points forward to the ultimate atonement made by Jesus Christ, who is the perfect High Priest and the final sacrifice for sin, as understood in the New Testament.

for him for the sin he has committed
This phrase acknowledges personal responsibility for sin, a key tenet in the biblical narrative. The Hebrew word for sin, "חֵטְא" (chet), implies missing the mark or falling short of God's standards. The sacrificial system provided a means for individuals to restore their relationship with God, prefiguring the complete forgiveness available through Christ.

and he will be forgiven
Forgiveness, or "סָלַח" (salach) in Hebrew, is a profound act of divine grace. This assurance of forgiveness upon the completion of the prescribed ritual highlights God's mercy and willingness to restore His people. In the broader biblical context, this foreshadows the New Testament message of forgiveness through faith in Jesus Christ, emphasizing God's unchanging nature as a forgiving and loving Father.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest
The priest acts as a mediator between the people and God, performing the sacrificial rituals necessary for atonement.

2. Israelites
The people of Israel, who are given the laws and instructions for maintaining a right relationship with God.

3. Sin Offering
A specific type of sacrifice required for atonement of unintentional sins, highlighting the seriousness of sin and the need for purification.

4. Burnt Offering
A sacrificial offering that is completely consumed by fire, symbolizing total dedication to God.

5. Tabernacle
The place where sacrifices are made, representing God's dwelling among His people.

Teaching Points

Understanding Atonement
The concept of atonement in Leviticus underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for a mediator. It points to the ultimate atonement made by Jesus Christ, who is our High Priest and perfect sacrifice.

The Role of the Priest
The priest's role in making atonement highlights the importance of intercession. In the New Covenant, Jesus is our eternal High Priest, interceding on our behalf.

Forgiveness and Restoration
The assurance of forgiveness upon making the prescribed offering demonstrates God's desire for reconciliation with His people. This is fulfilled in the New Testament through Christ's sacrifice, offering us complete forgiveness and restoration.

Symbolism of Sacrifices
The burnt offering symbolizes total dedication and surrender to God. As believers, we are called to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, wholly dedicated to God's service.

The Seriousness of Sin
The detailed instructions for atonement in Leviticus remind us of the gravity of sin and the holiness of God. It calls us to live lives of repentance and holiness, relying on Christ's atoning work.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 5:10 foreshadow the role of Jesus as our High Priest?

2. In what ways does the concept of atonement in Leviticus help us understand the significance of Christ's sacrifice on the cross?

3. How can we apply the principle of total dedication, as symbolized by the burnt offering, in our daily lives?

4. What does the assurance of forgiveness in Leviticus 5:10 teach us about God's character and His desire for a relationship with us?

5. How can the understanding of sin's seriousness in Leviticus influence our approach to confession and repentance today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 9:22
This verse emphasizes the necessity of blood for the forgiveness of sins, connecting the Old Testament sacrificial system to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

1 John 1:9
Highlights the promise of forgiveness and cleansing from sin when we confess, reflecting the atonement process in Leviticus.

Romans 3:23-25
Discusses the universality of sin and the provision of grace through Jesus, paralleling the need for atonement in Leviticus.

Isaiah 53:5
Prophecies about the suffering servant who would bear the sins of many, foreshadowing the ultimate atonement through Christ.