Leviticus 4:20

KJV

And he shall do with the bullock as he did with the bullock for a sin offering, so shall he do with this: and the priest shall make an atonement for them, and it shall be forgiven them.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he shall do {H6213} with the bullock {H6499} as he did {H6213} with the bullock {H6499} for a sin offering {H2403}, so shall he do {H6213} with this: and the priest {H3548} shall make an atonement {H3722} for them, and it shall be forgiven {H5545} them.

Complete Jewish Bible

This is what he is to do with the bull - he must do the same with this bull as he does with the one for the sin offering. Thus the cohen will make atonement for them, and they will be forgiven.

Berean Standard Bible

He shall offer this bull just as he did the bull for the sin offering; in this way the priest will make atonement on their behalf, and they will be forgiven.

American Standard Version

Thus shall he do with the bullock; as he did with the bullock of the sin-offering, so shall he do with this; and the priest shall make atonement for them, and they shall be forgiven.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 4:20 concludes the intricate instructions for the sin offering when committed unintentionally by the entire congregation of Israel, detailing the final, crucial steps required for achieving atonement and divine forgiveness. This verse underscores the critical and consistent role of the priest in performing the prescribed ritual with the bullock, mirroring the exact procedure for the anointed priest's sin offering, thereby securing reconciliation between a holy God and His covenant people and ensuring the pardon of their corporate transgression.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus chapter 4 meticulously outlines the procedures for the *chatta't* (sin offering), a sacrifice specifically designed to address unintentional sins committed by various segments of the Israelite community: an anointed priest (Leviticus 4:1-12), the whole congregation (Leviticus 4:13-21), a ruler (Leviticus 4:22-26), or a common person (Leviticus 4:27-35). Verse 20 serves as the culminating directive for the congregation's sin offering, directly referencing the preceding instructions that began in [Leviticus 4:13](/leviticus/4-13 "Leviticus 4:13-21 - Sin Offering for the Whole Congregation"). The ritual involved the elders of the congregation laying their hands on the bullock's head ([Leviticus 4:15](/leviticus/4-15 "Leviticus 4:15 - Laying on of Hands")) to symbolize the transfer of sin, followed by its slaughter. The priest then took some of the blood and sprinkled it seven times before the veil of the sanctuary and put some on the horns of the altar of incense ([Leviticus 4:17-18](/leviticus/4-17-18 "Leviticus 4:17-18 - Blood Application")), signifying the cleansing of the sacred space defiled by sin. The remaining blood was poured out at the base of the altar of burnt offering ([Leviticus 4:18](/leviticus/4-18 "Leviticus 4:18 - Pouring Out Blood")). Finally, the fat portions were burned on the altar ([Leviticus 4:19](/leviticus/4-19 "Leviticus 4:19 - Burning the Fat")), while the rest of the bullock was taken outside the camp to a clean place and burned ([Leviticus 4:21](/leviticus/4-21 "Leviticus 4:21 - Burning the Remains Outside the Camp")), emphasizing the complete removal of sin and its consequences from the community.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the divinely ordained sacrificial system was the primary means by which a holy God could dwell among a sinful people. The Tabernacle, and later the Temple, served as the focal point of God's presence, and any defilement, even unintentional, threatened the integrity of this sacred relationship. The concept of corporate responsibility was deeply ingrained in Israelite society, meaning that the sins of individuals, especially leaders, or the collective body, could bring guilt upon the entire community, necessitating a communal remedy. The sin offering, particularly for the congregation, addressed such corporate defilement, restoring the covenant relationship and ensuring God's continued presence. The use of a "bullock" (a young bull) for the congregation's sin offering, the most valuable animal, underscored the gravity of corporate sin and the high cost required for its expiation. The priest's role was not merely ritualistic; he was the divinely appointed mediator, performing the precise actions necessary to facilitate atonement and secure forgiveness on behalf of the people, thereby maintaining the purity of the worship space and the holiness of the nation.
* **Key Themes:** Leviticus 4:20 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Leviticus and the broader Pentateuch. The theme of **Holiness** is paramount, as the meticulous instructions for the sin offering underscore God's absolute purity and His demand for holiness from His people, even in the face of unintentional sin. The necessity of atonement highlights the theme of **Sin's Gravity**, demonstrating that all sin, regardless of intent, creates a breach in the relationship with a holy God and requires a divine remedy. Central to the passage is the theme of **Atonement and Forgiveness**, revealing God's gracious provision for reconciliation and restoration through the shedding of blood. The role of the priest further emphasizes the theme of **Mediation**, as the priest acts as the divinely appointed intermediary between God and humanity. Finally, the consistent procedures for different groups (e.g., [Leviticus 4:3-12](/leviticus/4-3-12 "Leviticus 4:3-12 - Sin Offering for the Anointed Priest") compared to [Leviticus 4:13-21](/leviticus/4-13-21 "Leviticus 4:13-21 - Sin Offering for the Whole Congregation")) highlight the theme of **Divine Order and Precision** in worship and reconciliation.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Bullock (Hebrew, _par'_):** This term (H6499) refers to a young bull, typically unblemished and of significant value. In the context of the sin offering, the choice of a bullock for the anointed priest and the entire congregation (as opposed to a goat or lamb for a ruler or common person) underscores the gravity and widespread impact of the sin being atoned for. It signifies a costly and substantial sacrifice, reflecting the high status and collective responsibility of those for whom the offering is made. The bullock's strength and value made it a fitting representation of the significant offering required to address corporate sin.
* **Atonement (Hebrew, _kâphar'_):** Derived from the primitive root (H3722) meaning "to cover," "to purge," or "to make reconciliation," *kâphar* in this cultic context refers to the act of making amends for sin, thereby rendering it nullified or "covered" in God's sight. It is not merely hiding sin, but rather a process by which the breach between God and humanity, caused by sin, is mended, and fellowship is restored. The priest's actions facilitate this divine initiative, making it possible for God to relate to His people despite their sin. This act of covering implies a satisfaction of divine justice, allowing mercy to be extended.
* **Forgiven (Hebrew, _çâlach'_):** This verb (H5545) specifically denotes God's sovereign act of pardoning or remitting sin. Unlike human forgiveness, which can be conditional, *çâlach* emphasizes God's gracious and unconditional act of setting aside the penalty for sin once atonement has been made. It signifies a complete release from guilt and the restoration of a right standing with God, highlighting divine mercy as the ultimate outcome of the sacrificial system. This forgiveness is a divine prerogative, granted through the prescribed means.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he shall do with the bullock as he did with the bullock for a sin offering, so shall he do with this:"** This clause emphasizes the procedural consistency and repetition of the ritual. It explicitly links the congregation's sin offering back to the detailed instructions given for the anointed priest's sin offering ([Leviticus 4:3-12](/leviticus/4-3-12 "Leviticus 4:3-12 - Sin Offering for the Anointed Priest")). This repetition signifies that the method of atonement is divinely prescribed and unchanging, ensuring the efficacy and validity of the sacrifice regardless of who committed the sin, as long as it falls within the category of unintentional transgression. It highlights the importance of obedience to God's precise commands for worship and reconciliation, ensuring that the ritual's power comes from divine institution, not human innovation.
* **"and the priest shall make an atonement for them,"** This phrase underscores the indispensable role of the priest as the divinely appointed mediator. It is through his performance of the specific, prescribed rituals—the slaughter, the blood manipulation (sprinkling and smearing), and the burning of the fat—that the act of *kâphar* (atonement) is accomplished. The priest acts on behalf of the sinful congregation, bridging the gap between a holy God and His defiled people, making reconciliation possible. This is not a human achievement but a divinely enabled act through the designated intermediary, demonstrating God's provision for His people to approach Him.
* **"and it shall be forgiven them."** This final clause states the direct and promised outcome of the successful atonement: divine forgiveness. The Hebrew verb *çâlach* signifies God's gracious act of pardoning sin, removing the guilt and consequences. This is the ultimate goal of the sin offering—to restore the covenant relationship and allow the community to remain in fellowship with God. It demonstrates God's mercy and faithfulness in providing a way for His people to be cleansed and accepted, even after falling short, confirming that the elaborate ritual serves a salvific purpose.

#### Literary Devices
Leviticus 4:20 employs several significant literary devices that enhance its meaning and impact. **Repetition** is prominent, with the phrase "as he did with the bullock for a sin offering, so shall he do with this" explicitly linking the current offering to previously detailed rituals. This reinforces the precise and immutable nature of God's commands for atonement, emphasizing that the efficacy of the sacrifice lies in strict adherence to divine instruction and not in human improvisation. **Symbolism** is central, with the bullock representing a substitutionary sacrifice, bearing the consequences of the congregation's sin. The shedding of its blood symbolizes the giving of life for the expiation of sin, a foundational principle of the Old Covenant where "the life of the creature is in the blood" ([Leviticus 17:11](/leviticus/17-11 "Leviticus 17:11 - The Life is in the Blood")). The entire ritual acts as a **Type**, foreshadowing a greater reality. The temporary and repeated nature of these animal sacrifices points forward to the need for a perfect, once-for-all sacrifice that would truly remove sin. The **Covenant Language** of "atonement" and "forgiveness" highlights God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, providing a means for His people to remain in relationship with Him despite their shortcomings, thereby demonstrating His enduring commitment to His chosen people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 4:20 encapsulates core theological truths about the nature of God, sin, and redemption within the Old Covenant. It powerfully conveys God's absolute holiness, which cannot tolerate sin, even unintentional transgression, in His presence. Yet, it simultaneously reveals His profound mercy and grace in providing a divinely ordained pathway for reconciliation. The necessity of a costly, blood sacrifice underscores the gravity of sin and the principle that life must be given for sin to be atoned for, a truth echoed throughout Scripture. The priest's mediation highlights the human inability to approach a holy God directly without a designated intermediary, emphasizing humanity's fallen state and dependence on divine provision. Ultimately, this passage, like the entire sacrificial system, serves as a pedagogical tool, teaching Israel about the seriousness of their sin, the graciousness of God, and the foundational principle that "without shedding of blood is no remission" of sin. It points forward to a more perfect and final sacrifice that would fully satisfy divine justice and bring complete forgiveness.

* [Leviticus 17:11](/leviticus/17-11 "Leviticus 17:11 - The Life is in the Blood")
* [Hebrews 9:22](/hebrews/9-22 "Hebrews 9:22 - Without Shedding of Blood")
* [Romans 5:11](/romans/5-11 "Romans 5:11 - Reconciliation Through Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Leviticus 4:20, though detailing an ancient ritual, offers profound and enduring lessons for believers today. It starkly reminds us of the absolute holiness of God and the pervasive nature of sin, emphasizing that even unintentional transgressions require a divine remedy. This should cultivate a deep humility within us, recognizing that our own efforts are insufficient to bridge the gap between our sinfulness and God's perfect righteousness. The meticulous nature of the sin offering ritual highlights God's intentional provision for forgiveness, demonstrating His unwavering desire for reconciliation with His people. We are called to reflect on the immense cost of sin and the even greater cost of God's provision for our redemption. Furthermore, the priest's essential role as mediator points us to our ultimate need for a High Priest who can intercede on our behalf. This passage should lead us to a profound appreciation for the finished work of Christ, who has fulfilled and surpassed the Old Testament sacrifices, offering us complete and eternal forgiveness through His own blood. Our response should be one of humble gratitude, repentance, and a renewed commitment to living in light of the costly grace we have received, striving to walk in a manner worthy of such a high calling.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the detailed nature of the sin offering in Leviticus 4:20 deepen your understanding of the gravity of sin, even unintentional sin, in the eyes of a holy God?**
* **In what ways does the concept of corporate sin and communal atonement, as seen in the congregation's sin offering, challenge or inform our individualistic perspectives on faith and responsibility within the body of Christ today?**
* **Considering the priest's essential role in mediation for the people, how does this passage point to our ultimate need for a perfect mediator, and how does Jesus Christ uniquely fulfill that role for us?**

### FAQ

**What is the difference between an "unintentional sin" and an "intentional sin" in the Old Testament context, and how does Leviticus 4:20 relate to this distinction?**

Answer: In the Old Testament, "unintentional sin" (Hebrew: *shagagah*) refers to sins committed through ignorance, error, oversight, or weakness, without malicious intent or defiant rebellion against God's known commands. These are the sins for which the sin offering (*chatta't*) in Leviticus 4, including the one described in [Leviticus 4:20](/leviticus/4-20 "Leviticus 4:20 - Forgiveness for Corporate Sin"), was prescribed. God, in His mercy, provided a way for these sins to be atoned for and forgiven, recognizing human frailty. In contrast, "intentional sin" (often described as sinning "with a high hand" or "presumptuously," Hebrew: *yad ramah*) refers to deliberate, defiant acts of rebellion against God's known commands. For such sins, the Old Testament law generally offered no specific animal sacrifice for atonement, and the consequence was often "being cut off from the people" (e.g., [Numbers 15:30-31](/numbers/15-30-31 "Numbers 15:30-31 - Presumptuous Sins and Their Consequences")). Leviticus 4:20, by addressing the "sin offering" for the congregation, is explicitly concerned with unintentional transgressions, highlighting God's provision for human weakness while maintaining His standard of holiness.

**Why was a "bullock" specifically required for the congregation's sin offering, as mentioned in Leviticus 4:20?**

Answer: The specific animal required for a sin offering varied depending on the status of the individual or group committing the unintentional sin. A bullock (young bull) was the most valuable and costly animal prescribed for sacrifice. Its requirement for the anointed priest ([Leviticus 4:3](/leviticus/4-3 "Leviticus 4:3 - Sin Offering for the Anointed Priest")) and the entire congregation ([Leviticus 4:14](/leviticus/4-14 "Leviticus 4:14 - Sin Offering for the Whole Congregation")) underscored the profound gravity and widespread impact of sin committed by those in positions of leadership or by the collective body of Israel. The higher the status of the sinner or the broader the scope of the sin, the more valuable the animal required for atonement. This emphasized the seriousness of corporate sin, which could defile the entire community and threaten God's presence among them, thus necessitating a substantial and costly offering to restore purity and relationship. For a ruler, a male goat was prescribed ([Leviticus 4:23](/leviticus/4-23 "Leviticus 4:23 - Sin Offering for a Ruler")), and for a common person, a female goat or lamb ([Leviticus 4:28](/leviticus/4-28 "Leviticus 4:28 - Sin Offering for a Common Person"), [Leviticus 4:32](/leviticus/4-32 "Leviticus 4:32 - Sin Offering for a Common Person")), illustrating a hierarchy of offerings corresponding to the level of responsibility and impact of the sin.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 4:20, with its emphasis on priestly mediation, sacrificial atonement, and divine forgiveness, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The bullock, sacrificed for the congregation's unintentional sins, was a temporary and incomplete shadow, pointing forward to the perfect, spotless [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") who would take away the sin of the world. Unlike the Old Testament priests who had to offer sacrifices repeatedly, first for their own sins and then for the people's, Jesus, our [Great High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest"), offered Himself "once for all" ([Hebrews 7:27](/hebrews/7-27 "Hebrews 7:27 - Christ's Once-for-All Sacrifice"); [Hebrews 9:26](/hebrews/9-26 "Hebrews 9:26 - Christ's Once-for-All Sacrifice")). His blood, unlike that of bulls and goats which could only ceremonially cover sins ([Hebrews 10:4](/hebrews/10-4 "Hebrews 10:4 - Animal Sacrifices Cannot Take Away Sins")), truly cleanses and purges our consciences from dead works ([Hebrews 9:14](/hebrews/9-14 "Hebrews 9:14 - Christ's Blood Cleanses Conscience")). Through His single, perfect sacrifice on the cross, Jesus accomplished eternal redemption ([Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Hebrews 9:12 - Eternal Redemption Through Christ's Blood")), making full and final atonement for all who believe ([Romans 3:25](/romans/3-25 "Romans 3:25 - Christ Our Propitiation")). His finished work means that the forgiveness promised in Leviticus 4:20 is now fully realized, not just for unintentional sins, but for all sins, through faith in Him. We are reconciled to God, not by repeated rituals, but by the one-time, sufficient sacrifice of Christ, who "bore our sins in his own body on the tree" ([1 Peter 2:24](/1_peter/2-24 "1 Peter 2:24 - Christ Bore Our Sins")). He became sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Numbers 15:25

And the priest shall make an atonement for all the congregation of the children of Israel, and it shall be forgiven them; for it [is] ignorance: and they shall bring their offering, a sacrifice made by fire unto the LORD, and their sin offering before the LORD, for their ignorance:

Hebrews 10:10

By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once [for all].

Hebrews 10:12

But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;

Leviticus 12:8

And if she be not able to bring a lamb, then she shall bring two turtles, or two young pigeons; the one for the burnt offering, and the other for a sin offering: and the priest shall make an atonement for her, and she shall be clean.

Daniel 9:24

Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.

Exodus 32:30

¶ And it came to pass on the morrow, that Moses said unto the people, Ye have sinned a great sin: and now I will go up unto the LORD; peradventure I shall make an atonement for your sin.

Leviticus 14:18

And the remnant of the oil that [is] in the priest's hand he shall pour upon the head of him that is to be cleansed: and the priest shall make an atonement for him before the LORD.