Leviticus 6:6

KJV

And he shall bring his trespass offering unto the LORD, a ram without blemish out of the flock, with thy estimation, for a trespass offering, unto the priest:

KJV (with Strong's)

And he shall bring {H935} his trespass offering {H817} unto the LORD {H3068}, a ram {H352} without blemish {H8549} out of the flock {H6629}, with thy estimation {H6187}, for a trespass offering {H817}, unto the priest {H3548}:

Complete Jewish Bible

He is to bring as his guilt offering to ADONAI a ram without defect from the flock, or its equivalent according to your appraisal, to the cohen; it is a guilt offering.

Berean Standard Bible

Then he must bring to the priest his guilt offering to the LORD: an unblemished ram of proper value from the flock.

American Standard Version

And he shall bring his trespass-offering unto Jehovah, a ram without blemish out of the flock, according to thy estimation, for a trespass-offering, unto the priest:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 6:6 meticulously outlines the specific requirements for the trespass offering (also known as the guilt offering), an integral part of Israel's sacrificial system designed to address particular offenses that involved measurable damage or loss, whether against God's holy things or against a neighbor. This verse specifies that the offering must be an unblemished ram and crucially emphasizes the element of "estimation," or restitution, which was to be presented to the priest, thereby ensuring both spiritual atonement and tangible reparation for the wrong committed.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus 6:6 is situated within a detailed section of Leviticus, specifically [Leviticus 5:14-6:7](/leviticus/5-14-7 "Leviticus 5:14-6:7 - Laws of the Trespass Offering"), which provides comprehensive instructions for the `ʾāšām` or trespass offering. This offering is distinct from the `chaṭṭāʾt` or sin offering, which primarily dealt with unintentional sins against God's general commandments where direct restitution was not applicable. In contrast, the trespass offering addressed offenses that resulted in quantifiable loss or damage, such as defrauding a neighbor, misusing consecrated items, or violating a sacred trust. The preceding verses, particularly [Leviticus 6:1-5](/leviticus/6-1-5 "Leviticus 6:1-5 - Restitution and Guilt Offering"), elaborate on the specific scenarios necessitating this offering and the critical component of restitution, which included an additional fifth part (20%) to the estimated value of the damage. Therefore, [Leviticus 6:6](/leviticus/6-6 "Leviticus 6:6 - The Trespass Offering Requirement") serves as the culminating procedural instruction for presenting the offering itself, following the determination of guilt and the required restitution.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the divinely ordained sacrificial system was the primary means for maintaining a covenant relationship with Yahweh and for addressing sin and impurity within the community. The concept of restitution was deeply embedded in the legal and social fabric of the ancient Near East, but in Israel, it was elevated to a theological imperative. Offenses were not merely civil matters but carried profound spiritual implications, demanding both divine forgiveness and human accountability. The requirement of "a ram without blemish" underscored the immense value and sanctity of the offering, reflecting the absolute holiness of God and the gravity of the sin. Rams were valuable animals, signifying a significant sacrifice for the offerer, representing a genuine cost. The priest's role was central, acting as the divinely appointed intermediary who received the offering, performed the necessary rituals, and facilitated the process of atonement and reconciliation between the individual and the LORD, thereby restoring the offender to a right standing within the community and before God. This intricate system ensured that justice was served, holiness was maintained, and the covenant relationship was upheld.

* **Key Themes:** [Leviticus 6:6](/leviticus/6-6 "Leviticus 6:6 - The Trespass Offering") contributes significantly to several key themes prevalent throughout the book of Leviticus and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost among these is the theme of **Holiness**, emphasizing God's absolute purity and the necessity for His people to approach Him with integrity and reverence, requiring unblemished sacrifices. Closely related is **Justice and Righteousness**, as the trespass offering uniquely highlights the divine demand for not only spiritual atonement but also tangible **Restitution** for wrongs committed against others, underscoring that offenses against one's neighbor are ultimately offenses against God. This demonstrates God's concern for both vertical (Godward) and horizontal (manward) dimensions of sin and reconciliation. The verse also reinforces the theme of **Atonement**, showing that sin requires a costly sacrifice to cover guilt and restore relationship. Finally, the central role of the priest in receiving the offering and mediating the process points to the theme of **Mediation**, a crucial aspect of Israel's covenant relationship with God, as seen in passages like [Leviticus 4](/leviticus/4 "Leviticus 4 - The Sin Offering").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Trespass Offering (Hebrew, _ʼâshâm'_):** This term (H817) refers to "guilt" or "a fault," and by implication, a "sin-offering" or "trespass offering." It denotes not just the offering itself, but the underlying guilt that necessitates it, particularly for quantifiable offenses requiring reparation. Unlike the broader `chaṭṭāʾt` (sin offering), `ʾâshâm` carries the strong connotation of a specific wrong that has caused measurable damage or loss, demanding both atonement and restitution.
* **Without Blemish (Hebrew, _tâmîym'_):** This adjective (H8549) describes something as "entire," "complete," "full," "perfect," "sound," or "without spot." In the context of sacrifices, it signifies physical perfection and ritual purity, ensuring the animal is wholly acceptable to the holy God. The requirement for a `tâmîym` animal ensured that the offering was of the highest possible standard, reflecting the absolute holiness and perfection of the God to whom it was offered, and symbolizing the purity required for approaching Him.
* **Estimation (Hebrew, _ʻêrek'_)::** This noun (H6187) refers to an "estimate," "valuation," or "price." In the context of the trespass offering, it specifically denotes the assessed monetary value of the damage or loss incurred by the trespass, which was to be repaid with an additional 20% as a penalty, as stipulated in [Leviticus 6:5](/leviticus/6-5 "Leviticus 6:5 - The Restitution Requirement"). This term underscores the unique emphasis on tangible reparation inherent in the trespass offering, making it distinct from other sacrifices.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he shall bring his trespass offering unto the LORD,"**: This opening clause establishes the divine recipient of the offering, the LORD (Yahweh, H3068). The act of bringing the offering signifies the offerer's acknowledgment of guilt and their intent to seek reconciliation with God, recognizing that even an offense against a neighbor ultimately constituted a trespass against God's law and holiness. It underscores the theological dimension of all offenses within the covenant.
* **"a ram without blemish out of the flock,"**: This specifies the precise animal required for the trespass offering: a male sheep (ram, H352) that is physically perfect and free from any defect or imperfection (without blemish, H8549). This strict requirement highlights the sanctity and value of the offering, ensuring it is a worthy presentation to the holy God. The ram's origin "out of the flock" (H6629) indicates it comes from the offerer's own possessions, representing a personal cost and sacrifice.
* **"with thy estimation, for a trespass offering,"**: This crucial clause emphasizes the unique and distinguishing element of the trespass offering: the "estimation" (H6187) or valuation of the wrong committed. This refers to the monetary value of the damage or loss caused by the trespass, plus the additional 20% penalty as detailed in [Leviticus 6:5](/leviticus/6-5 "Leviticus 6:5 - The Restitution Requirement"). This "estimation" was not brought *as* the offering, but *with* the offering, signifying that the spiritual atonement provided by the ram was inextricably linked to the tangible act of restitution. The repetition "for a trespass offering" reinforces its specific purpose and nature.
* **"unto the priest:"**: This designates the intermediary through whom the offering and restitution were to be presented. The priest (H3548), acting on God's behalf, received the offering, performed the necessary sacrificial rites, and ensured the proper handling of the restitution. This priestly mediation was essential for facilitating the process of atonement and reconciliation between the repentant offerer and the LORD, thereby restoring the individual to a right relationship with God and the community.

#### Literary Devices
Leviticus 6:6 employs several literary devices to convey its precise instructions and theological weight. **Prescriptive Language** is paramount, evident in the direct, imperative tone ("And he shall bring...") that leaves no room for ambiguity regarding the required actions. This reflects the legal and covenantal nature of the Mosaic Law, where divine commands are absolute and binding. The verse also utilizes **Repetition**, specifically of the phrase "trespass offering," which appears twice. This repetition serves to emphasize the distinct nature and specific purpose of this particular sacrifice, ensuring it is clearly differentiated from other offerings and highlighting its importance. Furthermore, **Symbolism** is deeply embedded in the requirements: the "ram without blemish" symbolizes purity, perfection, and the high value placed on atonement, foreshadowing a future, perfect sacrifice. The "estimation" or restitution, while a tangible payment, symbolizes the comprehensive nature of true repentance, which involves not only spiritual cleansing but also practical rectification of wrongs and a restoration of justice.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 6:6 profoundly underscores the multifaceted nature of sin and the comprehensive requirements for atonement and reconciliation within the Old Covenant. It teaches that sin, particularly that which causes quantifiable harm, demands not only spiritual forgiveness but also tangible reparation. This highlights God's unwavering commitment to both **holiness** and **justice**, demonstrating that divine mercy does not negate human responsibility to make things right. The offering of an unblemished ram points to the necessity of a perfect sacrifice for sin, a theme that resonates throughout the Old Testament and finds its ultimate fulfillment in the New. The integration of the "estimation" with the animal sacrifice reveals that true reconciliation involves both vertical (Godward) and horizontal (manward) dimensions, emphasizing that offenses against one's neighbor are ultimately offenses against God.

* [Leviticus 6:5](/leviticus/6-5 "Leviticus 6:5 - The Restitution Requirement")
* [Numbers 5:6-7](/numbers/5-6-7 "Numbers 5:6-7 - Confession and Restitution")
* [Hebrews 9:14](/hebrews/9-14 "Hebrews 9:14 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the Old Testament sacrificial system, including the trespass offering, has been perfectly fulfilled in Jesus Christ, the enduring principles embedded in [Leviticus 6:6](/leviticus/6-6 "Leviticus 6:6 - The Trespass Offering") remain profoundly relevant for believers today. This verse challenges us to consider the full weight and consequences of our actions, especially when our sins cause tangible harm or loss to others. It calls us to a repentance that is not merely intellectual or emotional, but practical and restorative. True confession often involves not only seeking God's forgiveness but also actively striving to make amends where possible, demonstrating a tangible commitment to reconciliation. This might involve apologizing sincerely, restoring stolen property, repairing damaged reputations, or seeking to heal wounds we have inflicted. The requirement of an unblemished sacrifice also serves as a powerful reminder of the costliness of sin and the absolute perfection of the atonement provided by Christ. We are called to live justly, to value integrity, and to pursue reconciliation in our relationships, reflecting the character of our God who is both merciful and just, and who demands that our repentance bear fruit in righteous living.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might my actions, even unintentional ones, cause tangible harm or loss to others, requiring more than just an apology?**
* **How does the concept of "estimation" and restitution in the trespass offering challenge my understanding of repentance and forgiveness today, particularly in cases where I have caused quantifiable damage?**
* **What practical steps can I take to "make things right" in relationships where I have caused harm, even if the "cost" of restitution or reconciliation is significant?**

### FAQ
**What is the primary difference between the trespass offering and the sin offering?**

Answer: While both the trespass offering (`asham`) and the sin offering (`chatta't`) dealt with sin, their primary distinctions lay in the nature of the offense and the required response. The sin offering typically addressed unintentional sins against God's general commandments, where no direct, quantifiable damage or loss to a person or holy thing occurred. Its focus was on purifying the individual and the sanctuary from the defilement of sin. The trespass offering, as seen in [Leviticus 6:6](/leviticus/6-6 "Leviticus 6:6 - The Trespass Offering"), specifically addressed offenses that resulted in measurable damage or loss, either to God's holy things (e.g., misusing tithes or offerings) or to a neighbor (e.g., fraud, theft, breach of trust). A unique and crucial aspect of the trespass offering was the requirement for restitution, where the offender had to repay the full value of the damage plus an additional 20% (as detailed in [Leviticus 6:5](/leviticus/6-5 "Leviticus 6:5 - Restitution Requirement")) in addition to offering the unblemished ram for atonement. Thus, the trespass offering emphasized both spiritual atonement and tangible reparation, highlighting God's demand for justice and restoration.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 6:6, with its meticulous instructions for the trespass offering, finds its profound and ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "ram without blemish" powerfully foreshadows Christ, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), who was Himself "without blemish and without spot" ([1 Peter 1:19](/1_peter/1-19 "1 Peter 1:19 - Christ, the Unblemished Lamb")). He alone was perfectly holy and qualified to be the ultimate sacrifice for our trespasses. The crucial element of "estimation" and restitution in the Old Testament offering points directly to Christ's complete and perfect payment for our sins. Humanity's trespasses against God and one another incurred an immeasurable debt, a "loss" that we could never repay. Yet, [Christ, "who knew no sin, became sin for us"](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Our Substitute"), fully satisfying the divine demand for justice and making complete restitution on our behalf. His death on the cross was the ultimate trespass offering, not only atoning for our guilt but also fully restoring us to God, making perfect peace ([Colossians 1:20](/colossians/1-20 "Colossians 1:20 - Reconciliation Through Christ")). Through His one perfect sacrifice, offered "once for all" ([Hebrews 10:10](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10 - Christ's Once-for-All Sacrifice")), He fulfilled the priestly role, presenting Himself as the perfect offering, thereby making us righteous before God and providing complete reconciliation for every trespass.

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 5:15

If a soul commit a trespass, and sin through ignorance, in the holy things of the LORD; then he shall bring for his trespass unto the LORD a ram without blemish out of the flocks, with thy estimation by shekels of silver, after the shekel of the sanctuary, for a trespass offering:

Leviticus 5:18

And he shall bring a ram without blemish out of the flock, with thy estimation, for a trespass offering, unto the priest: and the priest shall make an atonement for him concerning his ignorance wherein he erred and wist [it] not, and it shall be forgiven him.

Isaiah 53:10

¶ Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put [him] to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see [his] seed, he shall prolong [his] days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand.

Isaiah 53:11

He shall see of the travail of his soul, [and] shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.