Leviticus 5:11

But if he cannot afford two turtledoves or two young pigeons, he may bring a tenth of an ephah of fine flour as a sin offering. He must not put olive oil or frankincense on it, because it is a sin offering.

Study Bible

But if he cannot afford
This phrase highlights God's understanding and compassion for the economic conditions of His people. The Hebrew root here implies a lack of means or resources. In the ancient Near Eastern context, this provision underscores God's inclusivity, ensuring that even the poorest could participate in the sacrificial system. It reflects the principle that God values the heart's intent over material wealth.

two turtledoves or two young pigeons
These birds were the least expensive sacrificial animals, accessible to those of modest means. Historically, turtledoves and pigeons were common in Israel, making them a practical choice for offerings. This provision demonstrates God's desire for all to have access to atonement, regardless of their financial status, emphasizing His justice and mercy.

he is to bring as his offering
The act of bringing an offering signifies personal responsibility and acknowledgment of sin. The Hebrew term for "offering" (קָרְבָּן, korban) implies drawing near to God. This reflects the broader biblical theme of reconciliation and the restoration of fellowship with God through sacrifice.

a tenth of an ephah of fine flour
An ephah was a unit of dry measure, and a tenth of an ephah was a modest amount, making it accessible to the poor. Fine flour, a staple in ancient diets, symbolizes purity and sustenance. This offering, though humble, was acceptable to God, illustrating that He values the sincerity of the giver over the size of the gift.

as a sin offering
The sin offering (חַטָּאת, chatat) was a crucial part of the sacrificial system, designed to atone for unintentional sins. This offering underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement, pointing forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who fulfilled the law and provided eternal atonement for sin.

He must not put olive oil or frankincense on it
Olive oil and frankincense were typically used in offerings to enhance their aroma and significance. Their exclusion here emphasizes the somber nature of the sin offering. The absence of these elements highlights the focus on atonement rather than celebration, reminding the offerer of the gravity of sin.

because it is a sin offering
This reiteration underscores the purpose of the offering: to atone for sin. The Hebrew concept of sin (חֵטְא, chet) involves missing the mark or falling short of God's standards. The sin offering serves as a tangible reminder of humanity's need for divine grace and forgiveness, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who bore our sins on the cross.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The original audience of the book of Leviticus, who were given laws and instructions by God through Moses.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the laws from God and communicated them to the people.

3. The Tabernacle
The place where the Israelites worshiped God and where sacrifices were offered.

4. The Sin Offering
A specific type of offering described in Leviticus for atonement of unintentional sins.

5. The Priest
The individual responsible for performing the sacrificial rituals on behalf of the people.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Sin Offering
Leviticus 5:11 provides a provision for those who cannot afford the standard sin offering, highlighting God's grace and inclusivity. It shows that God values the heart's intent over the material value of the offering.

God's Provision for All
The allowance for a lesser offering (fine flour) demonstrates God's understanding and accommodation for the poor, emphasizing that everyone has access to forgiveness regardless of their economic status.

The Heart of Worship
This passage reminds us that true worship and repentance are not about the external rituals but about the sincerity of the heart. God desires a humble and contrite spirit.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The sin offerings in Leviticus point forward to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate and final sin offering. His sacrifice is sufficient for all, regardless of our status or ability to offer materially.

Practical Repentance
In our lives today, repentance should be genuine and accompanied by a change in behavior, reflecting a heart that seeks to align with God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Leviticus 5:11 demonstrate God's concern for the poor and marginalized within the community of Israel?

2. In what ways does the provision for a lesser offering in Leviticus 5:11 reflect the character of God as seen throughout the Bible?

3. How can we apply the principle of sincere repentance in our daily lives, as suggested by the sin offering in Leviticus?

4. How does the concept of the sin offering in Leviticus 5:11 connect to the New Testament understanding of Jesus' sacrifice?

5. What are some practical ways we can ensure that our worship and repentance are genuine and not merely ritualistic, as critiqued in Isaiah 1?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 4
Provides context for the sin offering, detailing the procedures for different types of sin offerings.

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

Psalm 51
Highlights the importance of a contrite heart over ritual sacrifices, emphasizing inner repentance.

Isaiah 1
Critiques empty ritualism and calls for genuine repentance and justice.

1 John 1:9
Offers assurance of forgiveness through confession and the faithfulness of God.