The concept of the trespass offering, also known as the guilt offering, is a significant aspect of the sacrificial system outlined in the Old Testament. It is particularly relevant in cases where an individual conceals knowledge of a crime, thereby bearing guilt. This offering is distinct from other sacrifices, such as the sin offering, and serves a specific purpose in the restoration of the individual's relationship with God and the community.

Biblical Foundation

The primary scriptural basis for the trespass offering related to concealing knowledge of a crime is found in Leviticus 5:1. The Berean Standard Bible states: "If someone sins because he does not testify when he has heard a public charge to testify regarding something he has seen or learned about, he shall bear the iniquity." This verse underscores the responsibility of an individual to testify truthfully and the guilt incurred when failing to do so.

Nature of the Trespass Offering

The trespass offering is characterized by its focus on specific transgressions that involve a breach of trust or a violation of the sanctity of God's commandments. In the case of concealing knowledge of a crime, the offering serves to address the moral and spiritual breach caused by the individual's silence. The offering is not merely a ritualistic act but a profound acknowledgment of wrongdoing and a step towards reconciliation.

Procedure and Requirements

The procedure for the trespass offering is detailed in Leviticus 5:14-19. The individual who has concealed knowledge of a crime is required to bring a ram without blemish from the flock as the offering. The ram symbolizes the costliness of atonement and the seriousness of the offense. The priest then makes atonement on behalf of the individual, and the guilt is forgiven.

Leviticus 5:15-16 further elaborates: "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. It is a guilt offering. He must make restitution for what he has failed to do regarding the holy things, add a fifth of the value to it, and give it to the priest. Then the priest will make atonement on his behalf with the ram of the guilt offering, and he will be forgiven."

Theological Significance

The trespass offering for concealing knowledge of a crime highlights the importance of truthfulness and integrity within the community of God's people. It reflects the belief that sin is not only a personal matter but also affects the community and one's relationship with God. The offering serves as a tangible expression of repentance and the desire to restore what has been broken.

The requirement for restitution, including the addition of a fifth of the value, emphasizes the need for justice and the restoration of trust. It underscores the principle that forgiveness is not merely a matter of divine grace but also involves human responsibility and action.

Implications for Believers

For believers, the trespass offering serves as a reminder of the seriousness with which God views sin, particularly sins of omission such as concealing knowledge of wrongdoing. It calls for a commitment to truth and transparency, recognizing that silence in the face of wrongdoing is itself a form of complicity.

The offering also points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who, according to Christian belief, fulfills and transcends the Old Testament sacrificial system. In Christ, believers find the perfect atonement for all sins, including those of omission, and are called to live lives marked by integrity and truthfulness.Leviticus 5:1
And if a soul sin, and hear the voice of swearing, and is a witness, whether he has seen or known of it; if he do not utter it, then he shall bear his iniquity.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Faustus States his Objections to the Morality of the Law and the ...
... himself with a mistress, with the knowledge of his ... as to himself, than to be himself
offered on all ... Him, did also, by escaping and concealing Himself, exhibit ...
/.../faustus states his objections to.htm

part i
... will have all men to be saved, and to come into the knowledge of the ... In the prayer:
"And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive them that trespass against us ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part i.htm

What is a trespass in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What is a trespass offering / guilt offering? | GotQuestions.org

What were the various sacrifices in the Old Testament? | GotQuestions.org

Trespass: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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