What is the meaning of Leviticus 4:27?

And if one of the common people

- The law addresses “ordinary” Israelites—farmers, craftsmen, mothers, fathers—showing that holiness is not only for priests and leaders (cf. Exodus 19:6 where the whole nation is called “a kingdom of priests”).

- God’s expectations apply equally to every social rank (Romans 2:11; James 2:1).

- Grace is embedded here: by singling out “common people,” the LORD makes clear that no one is overlooked, forgotten, or exempt from His care.

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sins unintentionally

- Not deliberate rebellion but mistaken, careless, or ignorant actions (Numbers 15:27–29).

- Even unintentional wrongdoing still offends God’s holiness (Psalm 19:12).

- This clause reminds us to stay alert, examining our lives for hidden faults (1 Corinthians 4:4–5).

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does what is prohibited by any of the LORD’s commandments

- “Any” broadens the scope: moral, civil, ceremonial precepts alike (Deuteronomy 12:32).

- Commandments express God’s character; violating them—knowingly or not—misrepresents Him (Matthew 5:17–19).

- The verse upholds the unity of the Law: break one point and you are accountable for all (James 2:10).

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he incurs guilt

- Guilt is objective, not a mere feeling; God declares it (Leviticus 5:17).

- Sacrifice is therefore needed (Leviticus 4:28–31), foreshadowing Christ’s atonement for our sins committed in ignorance (Hebrews 9:7, Hebrews 9:14).

- Recognition of guilt is grace-driven, leading the sinner to confession and restoration (1 John 1:9).

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summary

Leviticus 4:27 shows that everyone, including ordinary people, can sin unintentionally, yet still violate God’s commands and therefore bear real guilt. The verse underscores God’s impartial standard, the seriousness of every command, and the necessity of atonement—ultimately realized in Jesus, who covers even sins we did not mean to commit.