Topical Encyclopedia Trespass-money refers to the restitution payment required under the Mosaic Law for certain offenses, particularly those involving unintentional sins or acts of deceit against the Lord or one's neighbor. This concept is primarily found in the Old Testament, where it is closely associated with the guilt offering, also known as the trespass offering.Biblical Context The regulations concerning trespass-money are detailed in the Book of Leviticus. The trespass offering was required when an individual committed a sin that involved a breach of faith or trust, whether against God or another person. This could include acts such as misappropriating property, swearing falsely, or inadvertently violating sacred things. Leviticus 5:15-16 states: "If someone acts unfaithfully and sins unintentionally against any of the LORD’s holy things, he must bring his guilt offering to the LORD: an unblemished ram from the flock, according to your valuation in silver shekels, based on the sanctuary shekel. He must make restitution for the sin he has committed against a holy thing, add a fifth of its value to it, and give it to the priest. The priest will then make atonement on his behalf with the ram of the guilt offering, and he will be forgiven." Purpose and Significance The purpose of trespass-money was to provide a means of restitution and reconciliation. It underscored the seriousness of sin, even when committed unintentionally, and the need for making amends. The addition of a fifth to the restitution amount emphasized the importance of going beyond mere compensation, reflecting a heart of repentance and a desire to restore what was lost or damaged. The trespass-money served as a tangible expression of repentance and acknowledgment of wrongdoing. It was not merely a legalistic requirement but a spiritual act that pointed to the need for atonement and the restoration of relationships—both with God and with others. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the concept of trespass-money highlights the holiness of God and the moral order He established. It reflects the biblical principle that sin has consequences and that justice requires restitution. The requirement to add a fifth to the restitution amount can be seen as a reflection of God's grace, encouraging the offender to go beyond the minimum requirement in seeking reconciliation. The trespass offering, including the payment of trespass-money, foreshadows the ultimate atonement provided by Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, Christ is portrayed as the fulfillment of the sacrificial system, offering Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin. Hebrews 9:14 states, "How much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from works of death, so that we may serve the living God!" Practical Application In contemporary Christian thought, while the specific legal requirements of the Old Testament law are not binding, the principles underlying trespass-money remain relevant. Believers are called to live lives of integrity, making amends where possible and seeking reconciliation in relationships. The spirit of the law encourages Christians to go beyond mere legal obligations, embodying the love and grace of Christ in their interactions with others. Concordance Trespass-money (1 Occurrence)2 Kings 12:16 Thesaurus Trespass-money (1 Occurrence)Trespass-money. Trespassing, Trespass-money. Trespass-offering . Multi-Version Concordance Trespass-money (1 Occurrence). ... /t/trespass-money.htm - 6k Trespass-offering (34 Occurrences) Trespassing (2 Occurrences) Sin-money (1 Occurrence) Resources What were the various sacrifices in the Old Testament? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is an abomination? | GotQuestions.org Why is the love of money the root of all kinds of evil? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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