The Scapegoat Ritual is a significant component of the Day of Atonement, or Yom Kippur, as described in the Old Testament. This ritual is detailed in Leviticus 16 and serves as a profound symbol of atonement and the removal of sin from the community of Israel.

Biblical Description

The ritual is commanded by God to Moses and is to be performed by the High Priest, Aaron, as part of the annual Day of Atonement. Leviticus 16:7-10 states: "Then he shall take the two goats and present them before the LORD at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. Aaron shall cast lots for the two goats—one lot for the LORD and the other for the scapegoat. Aaron 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 a scapegoat."

Symbolism and Function

The ritual involves two goats. One goat is sacrificed as a sin offering to the Lord, symbolizing the payment for the sins of the people. The second goat, known as the scapegoat, is used to symbolically carry the sins of the Israelites away from the camp. Leviticus 16:21-22 further explains: "He is to lay both hands on the head of the live goat and confess over it all the iniquities and rebellious acts of the Israelites—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 will release it into the wilderness."

The laying of hands on the scapegoat signifies the transfer of the community's sins onto the animal. The release of the goat into the wilderness represents the removal of sin from the people, illustrating God's forgiveness and the cleansing of the community.

Theological Significance

The Scapegoat Ritual is rich in theological meaning. It underscores the holiness of God and the seriousness of sin, emphasizing the need for atonement and purification. The ritual also foreshadows the ultimate atonement through Jesus Christ, who, according to Christian theology, fulfills the role of both the sacrificial offering and the bearer of sin. Hebrews 9:11-12 reflects this fulfillment: "But when Christ came as high priest of the good things that have come, He went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not made by hands, that is, not of this creation. He did not enter by the blood of goats and calves, but He entered the Most Holy Place once for all by His own blood, thus securing eternal redemption."

Cultural and Historical Context

In the ancient Near Eastern context, the concept of transferring sins or impurities onto an animal or object was not unique to Israel. However, the biblical scapegoat ritual is distinct in its divine prescription and its role within the covenant relationship between God and Israel. The ritual served to maintain the purity of the community and the sanctity of the tabernacle, ensuring that the Israelites could continue to dwell in the presence of a holy God.

Legacy and Influence

The term "scapegoat" has entered the broader cultural lexicon, often used to describe someone who is unfairly blamed for the wrongdoings of others. However, its biblical roots remain a powerful testament to the themes of sin, atonement, and divine grace. The Scapegoat Ritual, as part of the Day of Atonement, continues to be a subject of study and reflection within both Jewish and Christian traditions, highlighting the enduring significance of these ancient practices in understanding the nature of sin and redemption.