In the context of the Day of Atonement, as described in Leviticus 16, the role of "The Man Who Releases the Goat" is a significant yet often overlooked aspect of the ancient Israelite sacrificial system. This individual is responsible for the release of the scapegoat, or "Azazel," into the wilderness, symbolically carrying away the sins of the people of Israel.

Biblical Context

The Day of Atonement, or Yom Kippur, is a solemn and sacred day in the Jewish calendar, instituted by God as a day of national repentance and purification. Leviticus 16 outlines the detailed procedures that the high priest must follow to atone for the sins of the people. Central to this ritual are two goats: one is sacrificed as a sin offering, and the other is designated as the scapegoat.

Leviticus 16:8-10 states: "After Aaron casts lots for the two goats, one for the LORD and the other for the scapegoat, he shall present the goat chosen by lot for the LORD and sacrifice it as a sin offering. But the goat chosen by lot as the scapegoat shall be presented alive before the LORD to make atonement by sending it into the wilderness as the scapegoat."

Role and Responsibilities

The man who releases the goat plays a crucial role in this ritual. After the high priest lays his hands on the head of the scapegoat, confessing over it all the iniquities and transgressions of the Israelites, the goat is entrusted to this man, who is tasked with leading it into the wilderness.

Leviticus 16:21-22 describes this process: "He is to lay both hands on the head of the live goat and confess over it all the iniquities and transgressions of the Israelites, regarding all their sins. He shall place them on the head of the goat and send it away into the wilderness by the hand of a man appointed for the task. The goat will carry on itself all their iniquities into a solitary place, and the man shall release it into the wilderness."

The man chosen for this task must be ritually clean, as he is performing a sacred duty. His role is to ensure that the goat, bearing the sins of the people, is taken to a remote and uninhabited area, symbolizing the complete removal of sin from the community.

Symbolism and Theological Significance

The act of releasing the scapegoat into the wilderness is rich in symbolism. It represents the removal of sin and guilt from the people, a physical manifestation of God's forgiveness and cleansing. The wilderness, often seen as a place of desolation and separation, underscores the idea of sin being cast away, never to return.

This ritual foreshadows the ultimate atonement provided by Jesus Christ, who, according to Christian theology, bore the sins of humanity and provided a way for reconciliation with God. The scapegoat serves as a type, or foreshadowing, of Christ's sacrificial work, emphasizing the themes of substitution and expiation.

Historical and Cultural Context

In ancient Israel, the Day of Atonement was a pivotal event, deeply embedded in the religious and cultural life of the people. The man who released the goat was part of a larger community effort to seek God's mercy and favor. His role, though not as prominent as that of the high priest, was essential to the completion of the atonement process.

The practice of using a scapegoat has also been observed in various cultures throughout history, often as a means of transferring guilt or blame. However, the biblical account is unique in its theological depth and its connection to the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

Conclusion

The man who releases the goat, while a minor figure in the grand narrative of Scripture, plays a vital role in the Day of Atonement. His actions are a tangible expression of God's provision for sin and a reminder of the need for repentance and purification. Through this ritual, the Israelites were reminded of God's holiness and their dependence on His grace for forgiveness and restoration.