In the Old Testament, the procedure for bird offerings is detailed primarily in the book of Leviticus. Bird offerings were a provision for those who could not afford larger animals, allowing them to participate in the sacrificial system established by God for the Israelites. The birds typically used for these offerings were turtledoves or young pigeons.

Types of Bird Offerings

1. Burnt Offering: The burnt offering was a voluntary act of worship, atonement for unintentional sin, and an expression of devotion to God. Leviticus 1:14-17 outlines the procedure for offering a bird as a burnt offering: "If, instead of a lamb, he brings a bird as his offering to the LORD, he is to bring a turtledove or a young pigeon. The priest shall bring it to the altar, wring off its head, and burn it on the altar; its blood shall be drained out on the side of the altar. He shall remove the crop with its contents and throw it to the east side of the altar, in the place for ashes. He shall tear it open by its wings without dividing the bird completely. Then the priest shall burn it on the altar, on the wood that is on the fire. It is a burnt offering, an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma to the LORD."

2. Sin Offering: The sin offering was required for atonement of specific unintentional sins and ceremonial uncleanness. Leviticus 5:7-10 provides instructions for those who could not afford a lamb: "If, however, he cannot afford a lamb, he may bring to the LORD as his penalty for the sin he has committed two turtledoves or two young pigeons, one for a sin offering and the other for a burnt offering. He is to bring them to the priest, who shall first offer the one for the sin offering. He is to wring its head from its neck, but not sever it completely. Then he is to sprinkle some of the blood of the sin offering against the side of the altar, and the rest of the blood must be drained out at the base of the altar. It is a sin offering. The priest shall then prepare the second bird as a burnt offering according to the regulations. In this way the priest will make atonement for him for the sin he has committed, and he will be forgiven."

Symbolism and Significance

Bird offerings, like other sacrifices, were symbolic acts that pointed to the need for atonement and reconciliation with God. The use of birds, which were more accessible to the poor, underscored the inclusivity of God's covenant, allowing all Israelites, regardless of economic status, to participate in the sacrificial system. The act of sacrifice was a tangible expression of repentance and devotion, acknowledging God's holiness and the seriousness of sin.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the practice of offering birds is mentioned in the context of Jesus' presentation at the temple. Luke 2:24 notes that Mary and Joseph offered "a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons" in accordance with the Law of the Lord, highlighting their adherence to the Mosaic Law and their humble socioeconomic status.

The sacrificial system, including bird offerings, finds its ultimate fulfillment in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Hebrews 10:10 states, "And by that will, we have been sanctified through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all." Christ's sacrifice rendered the Old Testament sacrificial system obsolete, as He provided the perfect and final atonement for sin.