Leviticus 5:16

Regarding any holy thing he has harmed, he must make restitution by adding a fifth of its value to it and giving it to the priest, who will make atonement on his behalf with the ram as a guilt offering, and he will be forgiven.

Study Bible

Regarding the holy things
This phrase refers to items or practices set apart for sacred use in the worship of God. In the Hebrew context, "holy things" (קָדָשִׁים, qadoshim) signifies objects or actions dedicated to God, emphasizing their sanctity and the need for reverence. Historically, these could include offerings, tithes, or sacred rituals. The Israelites were called to honor these holy things, reflecting their covenant relationship with God. This underscores the importance of treating what is consecrated to God with utmost respect and integrity.

he must make restitution
The concept of restitution (שִׁלֵּם, shillem) involves compensating for a wrong or loss. In the biblical context, it is not merely a legal obligation but a moral and spiritual duty to restore what was misappropriated or neglected. This act of restitution is a tangible expression of repentance and a step towards reconciliation with God and the community. It highlights the biblical principle that true repentance involves action and a commitment to rectify one's wrongs.

for what he has failed to do
This phrase acknowledges human fallibility and the reality of unintentional sins or omissions. The Hebrew word for "failed" (חָטָא, chata) often denotes missing the mark or falling short of God's standards. It serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance in spiritual and moral duties. The acknowledgment of failure is the first step towards seeking forgiveness and restoration, emphasizing the grace available through God's provision for atonement.

adding a fifth of the value to it
The requirement to add a fifth (20%) to the restitution underscores the seriousness of the offense and the need for sincere repentance. This additional compensation (חֹמֶשׁ, chomesh) serves as a deterrent against negligence and as a means to restore trust. It reflects the biblical principle of going beyond mere compensation to demonstrate genuine contrition and a desire to make amends fully.

and give it to the priest
The priest (כֹּהֵן, kohen) acts as an intermediary between the offender and God. In ancient Israel, the priesthood was responsible for maintaining the sanctity of worship and facilitating the people's reconciliation with God. By giving the restitution to the priest, the individual acknowledges the priest's role in the atonement process and the communal aspect of worship. This act reinforces the idea that sin affects not only the individual but the entire community of faith.

Then the priest will make atonement on his behalf
Atonement (כִּפֶּר, kipper) is a central theme in Leviticus, signifying the covering or removal of sin. The priest's role in making atonement highlights the necessity of mediation in the reconciliation process. This foreshadows the ultimate atonement made by Christ, the High Priest, who reconciles humanity to God. The priest's actions symbolize the grace and mercy of God, who provides a means for forgiveness and restoration.

with the ram of the guilt offering
The ram (אַיִל, ayil) used in the guilt offering (אָשָׁם, asham) represents the costliness of sin and the need for a significant sacrifice to atone for it. The guilt offering specifically addresses unintentional sins and breaches of faith, emphasizing the need for a sacrificial substitute. This offering points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who bore the guilt of humanity and provided the means for eternal forgiveness.

and he will be forgiven
Forgiveness (סָלַח, salach) is the gracious act of God removing the guilt and penalty of sin. This assurance of forgiveness is a profound expression of God's mercy and love. It offers hope and restoration to the sinner, reaffirming the covenant relationship with God. In the broader biblical narrative, this forgiveness is fully realized in the New Testament through the redemptive work of Christ, who offers complete and eternal forgiveness to all who believe.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Offender
An individual who has sinned unintentionally concerning the holy things of the LORD.

2. The Priest
The mediator who performs the atonement ritual on behalf of the offender.

3. Holy Things
Items or practices dedicated to God, which the offender has mishandled or neglected.

4. Guilt Offering (Asham)
A specific type of offering required for atonement, involving a ram.

5. Restitution
The act of making amends, including adding a fifth of the value to the restitution.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Restitution
Restitution is a tangible expression of repentance and responsibility. It demonstrates a commitment to making things right with God and others.

Understanding Holy Things
Recognize the sacredness of what is dedicated to God. This includes our time, resources, and actions, which should be handled with reverence.

Role of the Priest
In the Old Testament, the priest acted as a mediator. Today, Jesus is our High Priest, who intercedes for us and provides ultimate atonement.

The Principle of Atonement
Atonement involves both confession and action. It is not enough to acknowledge wrongdoing; one must also take steps to correct it.

Forgiveness and Restoration
God's forgiveness is available through the prescribed means of atonement. This points to the ultimate forgiveness found in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the requirement of adding a fifth to the restitution teach us about the nature of repentance and making amends?

2. How can we apply the principle of treating "holy things" with reverence in our daily lives?

3. In what ways does the role of the priest in Leviticus 5:16 foreshadow the work of Jesus as our High Priest?

4. How does the concept of restitution in Leviticus 5:16 relate to Jesus' teaching on reconciliation in the New Testament?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that we are living in a way that honors the sacred aspects of our relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 22:1-14
Discusses laws of restitution, emphasizing the importance of making amends for wrongs done to others, which parallels the restitution required in Leviticus 5:16.

Numbers 5:5-8
Provides further instructions on restitution, including the addition of a fifth, similar to the requirement in Leviticus 5:16.

Matthew 5:23-24
Jesus teaches about reconciliation and making things right with others before offering gifts at the altar, echoing the principle of restitution.

Hebrews 9:13-14
Discusses the superiority of Christ's sacrifice, which fulfills and surpasses the Old Testament sacrificial system, including guilt offerings.