How does Leviticus 4:18 emphasize the significance of blood in atonement rituals? The Verse “ ‘He is to put some of the blood on the horns of the altar before the LORD in the Tent of Meeting, and he shall pour out the rest of the blood at the base of the altar of burnt offering at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting.’ ” (Leviticus 4:18) Key Observations • Blood is applied in two distinct places—on the horns and at the base—showing deliberate, measured use rather than casual sprinkling. • The altar sits “before the LORD,” underscoring that atonement is directed God-ward, not merely symbolic for the offerer. • The priest is the mediator; his actions foreshadow the mediating work of Christ (Hebrews 8:6). Why Blood Matters • Leviticus 17:11—“For the life of the flesh is in the blood… it is the blood that makes atonement for the soul.” Life is offered in place of the sinner’s forfeited life. • Hebrews 9:22—“Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” God’s justice demands a life-for-life substitution. • Exodus 29:12 and Leviticus 8:15 link blood on the altar’s horns with purification, indicating that sin pollutes God’s dwelling and must be cleansed by life blood. Symbolic Placement of Blood • Horns of the altar: high points visible to all, declaring that sin’s penalty is publicly addressed. • Base of the altar: foundation soaked with blood, picturing that forgiveness rests on shed life from top to bottom. • Dual placement teaches that atonement covers every level of guilt—both the sinner’s standing (horns) and the sinner’s approach (base). Foreshadowing Christ • The priest’s careful application prefigures Jesus’ precise fulfillment of the Law (Matthew 5:17). • Jesus’ blood, once for all, satisfies God’s righteous requirement (Hebrews 9:11-14; 1 Peter 1:18-19). • Revelation 1:5—“To Him who loved us and released us from our sins by His blood.” Leviticus points forward to this ultimate release. Practical Takeaways • Sin is serious; forgiveness costs life. • God Himself provides the acceptable sacrifice, culminating in Christ (John 1:29). • Assurance comes not from human effort but from blood applied as God prescribes (1 John 1:7). |
    |