Leviticus 5:18

He is to bring to the priest an unblemished ram of proper value from the flock as a guilt offering. Then the priest will make atonement on his behalf for the wrong he has committed in ignorance, and he will be forgiven.

Study Bible

He is to bring to the priest
This phrase emphasizes the personal responsibility of the individual who has sinned. In the Hebrew context, the word for "bring" (הֵבִיא, hevi) implies an active, intentional action. The sinner must approach the priest, symbolizing the need for mediation between humanity and God. The priest, a representative of God, acts as an intermediary, highlighting the importance of spiritual leadership and guidance in the community.

a ram without blemish from the flock
The requirement of a "ram without blemish" underscores the necessity of offering something of value and purity to God. The Hebrew term for "without blemish" (תָּמִים, tamim) signifies completeness and perfection, reflecting God's holiness. This requirement points to the future perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who was without sin. The "flock" indicates the communal aspect of worship and sacrifice, as the offering comes from the resources of the community.

according to your valuation
This phrase involves the assessment of the ram's worth, which is determined by the priest. The Hebrew word for "valuation" (עֶרְכְּךָ, erkecha) suggests a standard of measure or worth. This reflects the principle that the cost of atonement is significant and must be recognized by the one offering the sacrifice. It also implies that God values sincerity and the heart's intent over mere ritual.

as a guilt offering
The "guilt offering" (אָשָׁם, asham) is a specific type of sacrifice in the Levitical system, designed to atone for unintentional sins or sins of omission. This offering acknowledges the reality of human imperfection and the need for divine forgiveness. It points to the seriousness of sin and the necessity of restitution, foreshadowing the ultimate atonement through Christ's sacrifice.

The priest will make atonement for him
The act of making "atonement" (כִּפֶּר, kipper) involves covering or purging sin, restoring the sinner to a right relationship with God. The priest's role is crucial, as he performs the ritual that symbolizes God's forgiveness. This highlights the grace and mercy of God, who provides a means for reconciliation despite human failings.

regarding the sin he has committed in ignorance
This phrase addresses sins committed unknowingly, emphasizing that ignorance does not exempt one from guilt. The Hebrew word for "ignorance" (שְׁגָגָה, shegagah) indicates an error or mistake, underscoring the pervasive nature of sin. It serves as a reminder of the need for continual self-examination and repentance, as well as the comprehensive nature of God's law.

and he will be forgiven
The promise of forgiveness (סָלַח, salach) is a central theme in the sacrificial system. It assures the sinner of God's willingness to pardon and restore. This forgiveness is not earned but granted through the prescribed means, pointing to the grace available through faith. It foreshadows the complete forgiveness offered through Jesus Christ, who fulfills the law and offers eternal redemption.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priest
The mediator between God and the people, responsible for offering sacrifices and making atonement for sins.

2. The Sinner
An individual who has committed an unintentional sin and seeks forgiveness through the prescribed offering.

3. The Ram
A sacrificial animal without blemish, symbolizing purity and the cost of atonement.

4. The Guilt Offering
A specific type of sacrifice required for atonement of unintentional sins, emphasizing the seriousness of sin and the need for restitution.

5. The Tabernacle
The place where sacrifices were made, representing God's presence among His people.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
Sin, even when unintentional, requires atonement. This underscores the holiness of God and the seriousness with which He views sin.

The Role of the Priest
The priest acts as a mediator, pointing to Christ as our ultimate High Priest who intercedes for us.

The Cost of Atonement
The requirement of a ram without blemish signifies the costliness of sin and the need for a perfect sacrifice, fulfilled in Jesus.

Forgiveness and Restoration
God's provision for forgiveness through the guilt offering demonstrates His desire for restoration and reconciliation with His people.

Living in Awareness of Sin
Believers are called to live with an awareness of sin and its consequences, continually seeking God's forgiveness and grace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the requirement of a "ram without blemish" in Leviticus 5:18 point to the nature of Christ's sacrifice?

2. In what ways does the role of the priest in Leviticus 5:18 foreshadow the work of Jesus as our High Priest?

3. How can understanding the concept of unintentional sin in Leviticus 5:18 affect our daily walk with God?

4. What parallels can you draw between the guilt offering in Leviticus and the teachings on confession and forgiveness in 1 John 1:9?

5. How does the process of atonement in Leviticus 5:18 enhance our understanding of the grace offered through Christ's sacrifice as described in Romans 3:23-25?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 4
Discusses the sin offering, which is closely related to the guilt offering, both emphasizing atonement and forgiveness.

Hebrews 9:22
Highlights the necessity of blood for the forgiveness of sins, connecting Old Testament sacrifices to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

Isaiah 53:10
Refers to the suffering servant as a guilt offering, foreshadowing Christ's atoning work.

1 John 1:9
Emphasizes confession and forgiveness, paralleling the process of atonement in Leviticus.

Romans 3:23-25
Discusses the universal nature of sin and the provision of Christ as the atonement for all.