The practice of laying hands on the head of an offering is a significant ritual in the Old Testament sacrificial system, primarily described in the book of Leviticus. This act is rich in symbolic meaning and serves as a vital component of the sacrificial rites instituted by God for the Israelites.

Biblical Foundation

The primary scriptural basis for this practice is found in Leviticus, where God provides detailed instructions for various offerings. In Leviticus 1:4 , it is written, "He is to lay his hand on the head of the burnt offering, so that it may be accepted on his behalf to make atonement for him." This directive is repeated in the context of other offerings, such as the peace offering (Leviticus 3:2) and the sin offering (Leviticus 4:4).

Symbolism and Purpose

The laying of hands on the offering serves multiple purposes:

1. Identification and Substitution: By laying hands on the animal, the offerer identifies with the sacrifice. This act symbolizes the transfer of the individual's sins or intentions onto the animal, which then becomes a substitute. The animal bears the consequences that the offerer deserves, highlighting the concept of substitutionary atonement.

2. Consecration: The act signifies the consecration of the offering to God. It is a declaration that the offering is set apart for a holy purpose, dedicated to the Lord as an act of worship and obedience.

3. Confession and Repentance: In the case of sin offerings, the laying on of hands is often accompanied by the confession of sins. This ritual underscores the necessity of repentance and the acknowledgment of one's transgressions before God.

4. Acceptance and Atonement: The act ensures that the offering is accepted by God on behalf of the offerer. It is a means of securing atonement, as the offering is made to reconcile the individual with God, restoring the broken relationship caused by sin.

Theological Implications

The practice of laying hands on the offering prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who is described in the New Testament as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). Just as the Old Testament sacrifices involved the transfer of sin to a substitute, Christ's atoning work on the cross involves the imputation of humanity's sin onto Him, providing a once-for-all sacrifice for sin (Hebrews 10:10).

Continuity and Fulfillment

While the specific ritual of laying hands on sacrificial animals is not practiced in the New Testament Church, its principles continue to hold theological significance. The laying on of hands in the New Testament is associated with the impartation of blessing, the commissioning of individuals for ministry, and the healing of the sick (Acts 6:6, 1 Timothy 4:14, James 5:14). These practices reflect the continuity of the symbolic act of identification, consecration, and the transmission of spiritual realities.

In summary, the laying of hands on the head of the offering is a profound ritual that encapsulates key theological themes of identification, substitution, and atonement, pointing forward to the redemptive work of Christ.