Leviticus 4:20

Commentary on Leviticus 4:20 (KJV)

Leviticus 4:20 concludes the detailed instructions for the sin offering when committed by the whole congregation of Israel. This verse underscores the culmination of the sacrificial ritual, leading to divine forgiveness.

Context

Leviticus chapter 4 outlines specific procedures for the "sin offering" (Hebrew: chatta't), which was distinct from other offerings like the burnt offering or peace offering. This particular sacrifice addressed unintentional sins committed by various groups within the community: an anointed priest, the whole congregation, a ruler, or a common person. Verse 20 specifically refers back to the instructions for the entire congregation's sin, which began in Leviticus 4:13. The bullock (young bull) was the prescribed animal for corporate sin, reflecting the gravity of the transgression. The ritual involved the elders of the congregation laying their hands on the bullock's head, signifying the transfer of sin, followed by its slaughter, the sprinkling of its blood before the veil in the Tabernacle, and the burning of specific parts on the altar, with the remainder of the bullock burned outside the camp.

Key Themes

• Atonement: The central theme of this verse is atonement. The act of the priest performing the prescribed ritual with the bullock was the means by which reconciliation was made between a holy God and the sinful congregation.
• Forgiveness: The direct and promised outcome of the atonement is forgiveness. God, in His mercy, provides a way for sins to be pardoned and the covenant relationship restored.
• Sacrifice and Substitution: The death of the bullock serves as a substitutionary sacrifice, bearing the consequences of the congregation's sin. Its life was given in exchange for the people's trespass.
• Priestly Mediation: The priest's role was indispensable. He was the divinely appointed mediator who performed the necessary rituals to facilitate the atonement and secure forgiveness on behalf of the people.
• Corporate Responsibility: This passage highlights the concept of corporate sin and the need for communal atonement, demonstrating that the actions of individuals or leaders could impact the entire community, requiring a collective remedy.

Linguistic Insights

The word "atonement" in the KJV is a translation of the Hebrew verb כָּפַר (kaphar), which literally means "to cover," "to purge," or "to make reconciliation." It implies not merely hiding sin but making amends for it, rendering it nullified in God's sight. The phrase "it shall be forgiven them" comes from the Hebrew verb סָלַח (salach), which specifically refers to God's act of pardoning or forgiving sin, emphasizing divine grace.

Cross-References & Fulfillment

The elaborate sacrificial system, particularly the sin offering, served as a powerful type and shadow pointing forward to the ultimate and perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The blood of bulls and goats could only cover sins temporarily and ceremonially (Hebrews 10:4), but it foreshadowed the necessity of a spotless, perfect sacrifice. The concept that "without shedding of blood is no remission" (Hebrews 9:22) finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ's death on the cross. His work provides the true propitiation for our sins, making full and final atonement, so that all who believe in Him receive complete forgiveness (Colossians 1:14).

Practical Application

Leviticus 4:20 teaches us several timeless truths:

• The Seriousness of Sin: Even unintentional sins required a costly sacrifice, highlighting God's absolute holiness and the gravity of any transgression against Him.
• God's Provision for Forgiveness: Despite sin, God always provides a way for reconciliation. In the Old Testament, it was through the sacrificial system; in the New Covenant, it is through Christ.
• The Necessity of a Mediator: Just as the Old Testament priest mediated atonement, Jesus Christ is our Great High Priest who has offered Himself as the perfect and final sacrifice, making direct access to God possible (Hebrews 4:14-16).
• Reliance on Christ's Work: We no longer need to offer animal sacrifices because Christ's single offering has perfectly accomplished what the law's sacrifices could only point to. Our forgiveness is secured by His finished work.