What is the meaning of Leviticus 22:14? If anyone eats a sacred offering in error • The verse opens by acknowledging that mistakes happen—even in holy matters. Unintentional consumption of what belongs exclusively to the LORD and His priests still violates holiness (Leviticus 5:15-16; Numbers 18:32). • “Sacred offering” refers to portions of peace offerings, firstfruits, or other dedicated foods set apart for priestly consumption (Leviticus 7:30-34; 10:12-15). • The standard is clear: holiness is not compromised simply because the offense was accidental. God calls His people to recognize the seriousness of every breach, intentional or not (Leviticus 4:2). he must add a fifth to its value • Divine justice requires restitution plus 20 percent. The added “fifth” underscores how God values both correction and deterrence (Leviticus 6:1-5; Numbers 5:5-7). • The offender bears tangible cost, learning that holiness cannot be treated casually. • This principle foreshadows how true repentance includes making wrongs right—fulfilled perfectly in Christ, who bore our debt in full (Isaiah 53:5-6; Colossians 2:14). and give the sacred offering to the priest • Restoration is completed only when the offering is placed back into its proper hands. The priest, representing God’s appointed order, receives what is due (Numbers 18:8-12; Deuteronomy 18:1-4). • The offender’s receipt of forgiveness is tied to obedience: not merely admitting fault, but acting to restore what belongs to God (1 Samuel 15:22). • The priest’s acceptance signals reconciliation within the covenant community (Leviticus 4:20). summary Leviticus 22:14 teaches that even unintended sins against what is holy carry real weight. God calls His people to (1) recognize the offense, (2) repay with added cost, and (3) restore the sacred gift to its rightful place. Holiness, restitution, and communal order come together here, pointing us ultimately to the perfect restitution provided by Christ for every believer. |
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