Leviticus 4:5

KJV

And the priest that is anointed shall take of the bullock's blood, and bring it to the tabernacle of the congregation:

KJV (with Strong's)

And the priest {H3548} that is anointed {H4899} shall take {H3947} of the bullock's {H6499} blood {H1818}, and bring {H935} it to the tabernacle {H168} of the congregation {H4150}:

Complete Jewish Bible

The anointed cohen is to take some of the bull's blood and bring it to the tent of meeting.

Berean Standard Bible

Then the anointed priest shall take some of the bull’s blood and bring it into the Tent of Meeting.

American Standard Version

And the anointed priest shall take of the blood of the bullock, and bring it to the tent of meeting:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 4:5 describes a pivotal moment in the sin offering ritual for the High Priest or the entire Israelite congregation, wherein the specially consecrated High Priest meticulously collects a portion of the bullock's blood and brings it into the sacred space of the Tabernacle of the congregation. This action profoundly underscores the life-giving and atoning power attributed to blood in the ancient Israelite sacrificial system, highlights the indispensable mediatorial role of the High Priest, and signifies the critical necessity of ritually purifying God's holy dwelling place from the defilement caused by the people's sins, even those committed unintentionally.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus 4 meticulously details the *chatta'th*, or sin offering, which is specifically prescribed for unintentional transgressions committed by various segments of the Israelite community. The verses immediately preceding [Leviticus 4:5](/leviticus/4-5 "Leviticus 4:5 - High Priest's Blood Ritual") establish the prerequisite sacrifice—a young bull without blemish—and the initial procedural steps: the offerer's laying of hands upon the bull's head, symbolizing identification with the sacrifice, followed by the animal's slaying outside the Tabernacle court, as outlined in [Leviticus 4:4](/leviticus/4-4 "Leviticus 4:4 - Laying on of Hands and Slaying the Bull"). Following this, [Leviticus 4:5](/leviticus/4-5 "Leviticus 4:5 - High Priest's Blood Ritual") transitions to the critical handling of the blood, which was understood as the life force and the central element for achieving atonement. The subsequent verses, specifically [Leviticus 4:6-7](/leviticus/4-6-7 "Leviticus 4:6-7 - Application of Blood in the Tabernacle"), elaborate on the precise application of this blood within the Tabernacle, including its sprinkling before the veil and smearing on the horns of the altar of incense, before the remaining blood was poured out at the base of the altar of burnt offering.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The sin offering held a unique position among the various sacrifices, primarily serving to atone for sins committed unknowingly or unintentionally. This emphasized the absolute holiness of God and the pervasive nature of sin, even when not deliberate. The designation "the priest that is anointed" refers exclusively to the High Priest, whose consecration involved a special anointing with holy oil, as meticulously detailed in [Exodus 29:7](/exodus/29-7 "Exodus 29:7 - Anointing of Aaron"). His elevated status meant that his own unintentional sins, or those of the entire community he represented, necessitated a more elaborate and potent ritual to cleanse the sacred space of the Tabernacle from defilement. The Tabernacle, serving as God's dwelling place among His people, as commanded in [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - God's Command to Build the Tabernacle"), was considered supremely holy. Any sin, even unintentional, was believed to pollute this sacred space, thereby requiring purification through the shedding and precise application of blood. This intricate system powerfully conveyed the gravity of sin and God's gracious provision for reconciliation.

* **Key Themes:** [Leviticus 4:5](/leviticus/4-5 "Leviticus 4:5 - High Priest's Blood Ritual") contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Leviticus and the broader Pentateuch. Central among these is the theme of **Atonement**, highlighting God's divinely ordained means of covering sin and restoring relationship. The verse underscores the **Holiness of God**, demonstrating that His sacred presence cannot abide sin, necessitating meticulous rituals for purification. It also emphasizes the **Mediatorial Role of the Priesthood**, particularly the High Priest, as the indispensable intercessor between a holy God and sinful humanity. Furthermore, the handling of the blood reinforces the theme of **Life and Blood as Sacred**, a concept profoundly articulated in [Leviticus 17:11](/leviticus/17-11 "Leviticus 17:11 - The Life is in the Blood for Atonement"), where blood is declared to be the life of the creature and the means of atonement. The purification of the Tabernacle itself reinforces the theme of **Sanctuary Purity**, ensuring God's continued presence among His people.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Anointed (Hebrew, _mâshîyach'_):** This term, derived from the root meaning "to smear" or "to rub with oil," specifically refers to the High Priest who has undergone a sacred consecration ritual involving the application of holy anointing oil. This anointing set him apart as God's chosen representative, endowing him with divine authority and enabling him to perform his unique mediatorial duties between God and Israel. The term underscores his sacred appointment and exclusive access to the most holy areas of the Tabernacle, subtly foreshadowing the ultimate "Anointed One," the Messiah.
* **Blood (Hebrew, _dâm'_):** In ancient Israelite theology, blood was understood as the very essence of life, as explicitly stated in [Leviticus 17:11](/leviticus/17-11 "Leviticus 17:11 - The Life is in the Blood for Atonement"). Its meticulous handling within the sacrificial system underscores its profound theological significance as the divinely appointed means of atonement. The act of taking the bullock's blood was not merely a physical action but a symbolic transfer of the innocent animal's life, offered as a substitute to cover the guilt of the transgressor, thereby making reconciliation with a holy God possible.
* **Tabernacle of the congregation (Hebrew, _ʼôhel môwʻêd'_):** Literally translating to "tent of meeting," this phrase refers to the portable sanctuary that served as the central place of worship and the tangible locus of God's presence among His people, Israel. Bringing the atoning blood "to the tabernacle of the congregation" signifies that the purification was not solely for the individual or community but, crucially, for the sacred dwelling place itself. This action was essential because sin, even unintentional, was believed to defile the Tabernacle, necessitating its ritual cleansing to ensure God's holy presence could remain amidst an imperfect people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the priest that is anointed":** This phrase precisely identifies the High Priest, the preeminent spiritual leader of Israel, who was consecrated for his unique office through a special anointing. His involvement in this specific sin offering ritual indicates the profound gravity of the sin being atoned for—either his own unintentional sin or that of the entire community—and the exceptionally high level of ritual purity required for its expiation. His office granted him exclusive access to the most sacred areas within the Tabernacle, making him the sole individual capable of performing this particular act of atonement.
* **"shall take of the bullock's blood":** This action forms the core of the entire sin offering. Following the bullock's slaying, its blood, which embodies its very life, is carefully collected. The emphasis on "taking" the blood highlights that the life of an innocent animal is being offered as a substitute for the life of the sinner, serving as the divinely ordained means of making atonement. The collected quantity of blood would be sufficient for the subsequent, precise applications within the sacred confines of the Tabernacle.
* **"and bring it to the tabernacle of the congregation":** This clause signifies the crucial movement of the atoning blood from the place of slaughter (outside the Tabernacle court) into the holy precincts of the sanctuary itself. This act is absolutely essential because sin, even if unintentional, was believed to defile the Tabernacle, which was God's dwelling place. The blood, acting as the agent of purification, had to be brought into God's immediate presence to cleanse the sanctuary and thereby restore the covenant relationship between God and His people, ensuring His continued holy presence among them.

#### Literary Devices
Leviticus 4:5, as an integral part of the intricate sacrificial system, employs several profound literary devices. **Symbolism** is paramount, with the "blood" serving as a potent symbol of life and atonement, representing the divinely appointed means by which sin is covered and purity is restored. The "Tabernacle of the congregation" functions as a powerful symbol of God's immanent presence among His people, and its purification vividly underscores the absolute holiness of God, which cannot tolerate the stain of sin. **Typology** is also significantly evident, as "the priest that is anointed" serves as a type, or foreshadowing, of a greater High Priest to come. His mediatorial role, his sacred anointing, and his bringing of atoning blood into the sacred space all point forward to the ultimate, perfect High Priest. The entire ritual described in this verse and its surrounding context is a prime example of **Ritual Purity**, a pervasive and foundational theme throughout the book of Leviticus, emphasizing the meticulous steps required to maintain a holy relationship with a holy God, even in the face of human imperfection and unintentional sin.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 4:5 profoundly illustrates several core theological truths that resonate throughout biblical revelation. It underscores the pervasive nature and seriousness of sin, even unintentional transgressions, which necessitate divine provision for atonement. The emphasis on the High Priest highlights the indispensable necessity of mediation between a holy God and sinful humanity, while the centrality of blood reveals God's chosen means of expiation—the substitution of life for life. This verse, therefore, lays foundational principles for understanding the gravity of sin, the unblemished holiness of God, and the indispensable role of a divinely appointed mediator and a blood sacrifice in achieving reconciliation and purification, setting the stage for the New Covenant.

* [Leviticus 17:11](/leviticus/17-11 "The Life is in the Blood for Atonement")
* [Hebrews 9:22](/hebrews/9-22 "Without Shedding of Blood There Is No Forgiveness")
* [Exodus 29:36](/exodus/29-36 "Atonement for the Altar")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Leviticus 4:5, while describing an ancient and seemingly distant ritual, offers profound and timeless insights for contemporary believers. It confronts us with the pervasive nature and inherent seriousness of sin, compelling us to recognize that even our unwitting transgressions defile us and invariably impact our relationship with a holy God. The meticulousness and gravity of the ritual underscore God's absolute standard of holiness and, simultaneously, His gracious and sovereign provision for dealing with human sin. We are called to deeply reflect on our own inherent need for atonement and purification, acknowledging with humility that our own efforts are utterly insufficient to bridge the chasm created by sin. This verse also profoundly invites us to appreciate the concept of mediation, recognizing that we cannot simply approach God on our own terms but require a divinely appointed intercessor. Ultimately, it cultivates a deeper gratitude for the ultimate fulfillment of this Old Testament shadow in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who perfectly accomplished what the Levitical system could only foreshadow, providing a complete and eternal atonement.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the detailed nature of the sin offering ritual in [Leviticus 4:5](/leviticus/4-5 "Leviticus 4:5 - High Priest's Blood Ritual") impress upon you the seriousness of sin, even unintentional sin, before a holy God?**
* **What does the unique and indispensable role of "the priest that is anointed" teach us about the necessity of mediation in our relationship with God?**
* **Considering the profound emphasis on blood for atonement in this verse, how does this deepen your appreciation for the immense cost of forgiveness and the sacred value of life?**

### FAQ
**Why was the High Priest specifically required to perform this action?**

Answer: The High Priest, referred to as "the priest that is anointed," was uniquely consecrated for his sacred office, symbolizing his unparalleled mediatorial role between God and the nation of Israel. When the sin offering was for his own unintentional sin or for the collective sin of the entire congregation, the ritual demanded the highest level of purity and spiritual authority. His actions, particularly bringing the atoning blood into the Tabernacle, underscored the profound gravity of the sin and the comprehensive nature of the atonement needed to cleanse both the people and God's sacred dwelling place from defilement. This is further elaborated in [Leviticus 4:3](/leviticus/4-3 "Leviticus 4:3 - Sin Offering for the Anointed Priest") concerning the High Priest's sin and in [Leviticus 4:13](/leviticus/4-13 "Leviticus 4:13 - Sin Offering for the Whole Congregation") regarding the congregation's sin.

**What is the significance of "the bullock's blood" in this ritual?**

Answer: In ancient Israelite theology, blood was unequivocally considered the life force, and God explicitly designated it as the divinely appointed means of atonement. [Leviticus 17:11](/leviticus/17-11 "Leviticus 17:11 - The Life is in the Blood for Atonement") powerfully states, "for the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul." Therefore, taking the bullock's blood meant taking its very life, which was offered as a substitute for the life of the sinner. Its subsequent application within the Tabernacle ritually cleansed and purified, symbolizing the covering of sin and the restoration of the relationship with a holy God.

**Why was the blood brought "to the tabernacle of the congregation" rather than just offered on the altar outside?**

Answer: The Tabernacle served as the sacred dwelling place of God among His people, as commanded and detailed in [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - God's Command to Build the Tabernacle"). Sin, even unintentional, was believed to defile this holy space, rendering it unfit for God's holy presence. For the sin of the High Priest or the entire congregation, a more extensive and profound purification was required, extending beyond the outer altar of burnt offering. Bringing the blood into the Tabernacle, specifically to be sprinkled before the veil and applied to the horns of the altar of incense, as outlined in [Leviticus 4:6-7](/leviticus/4-6-7 "Leviticus 4:6-7 - Application of Blood in the Tabernacle"), ritually cleansed the sanctuary itself. This meticulous act ensured that God's holy presence could continue to dwell among His people despite their imperfections and ongoing sin.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 4:5, with its profound emphasis on the anointed High Priest, the atoning blood, and the purification of the Tabernacle, serves as a rich and compelling shadow pointing directly to the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The "priest that is anointed" finds His ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus, the true [Messiah](/john/1-41 "John 1:41 - Andrew Finds the Messiah"), the perfectly [anointed one](/acts/10-38 "Acts 10:38 - God Anointed Jesus of Nazareth") by the Holy Spirit. Unlike the Levitical high priests, who were themselves sinful and thus required to offer sacrifices for their own transgressions before ministering for others, as noted in [Hebrews 7:27](/hebrews/7-27 "Hebrews 7:27 - Christ's Singular Sacrifice"), Jesus stands as our [great High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest")—holy, blameless, undefiled, and separate from sinners. He did not enter the earthly Tabernacle with the blood of bulls or goats; rather, He "entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption" ([Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Hebrews 9:12 - Christ's Entrance into the Heavenly Sanctuary")). The act of bringing the blood "to the tabernacle of the congregation" is perfectly fulfilled by Christ, who, through His sacrificial death on the cross, shed His own precious blood and entered the true, heavenly Tabernacle—the very presence of God ([Hebrews 9:24](/hebrews/9-24 "Hebrews 9:24 - Christ's Entrance into Heaven Itself")). His purpose was not to cleanse a physical tent, but to cleanse our consciences from dead works, enabling us to serve the living God ([Hebrews 9:14](/hebrews/9-14 "Hebrews 9:14 - Christ's Blood Cleanses Our Conscience")). Thus, Leviticus 4:5 beautifully illustrates the necessary elements—a perfect priest, a perfect sacrifice, and access to God's presence—all perfectly met and eternally secured in Jesus Christ, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God").

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

Leviticus 16:14

And he shall take of the blood of the bullock, and sprinkle [it] with his finger upon the mercy seat eastward; and before the mercy seat shall he sprinkle of the blood with his finger seven times.

Leviticus 4:16

And the priest that is anointed shall bring of the bullock's blood to the tabernacle of the congregation:

Leviticus 4:17

And the priest shall dip his finger [in some] of the blood, and sprinkle [it] seven times before the LORD, [even] before the vail.

Numbers 19:4

And Eleazar the priest shall take of her blood with his finger, and sprinkle of her blood directly before the tabernacle of the congregation seven times:

Leviticus 16:19

And he shall sprinkle of the blood upon it with his finger seven times, and cleanse it, and hallow it from the uncleanness of the children of Israel.

1 John 1:7

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.