The Hebrew word kippur, represented by H3725, is derived from the root H3722 and signifies expiation or atonement. It appears 8 times in 8 unique verses. The term, which is used only in its plural form, refers to the specific act or means by which reconciliation with God is achieved, often within a prescribed ritual context.
In scripture, H3725 is most prominently associated with the "Day of atonement," a solemn observance on the tenth day of the seventh month (Leviticus 23:27, Leviticus 25:9). This day was designated as a holy convocation where the people were commanded to afflict their souls Leviticus 23:27. The concept is also tied to specific sacrificial acts, such as the "sin offering of atonements" Exodus 30:10 and the "ram of the atonement" used for making trespass offerings Numbers 5:8. Additionally, it extends to a form of monetary contribution known as "the atonement money," which was collected from the Israelites for the service of the tabernacle Exodus 30:16.
Several related words clarify the meaning and application of atonement:
- H3722 kâphar (to make an atonement): As the primitive root of H3725, this verb describes the action of covering, expiating, or canceling sin. It is often used to describe the priest's role in the atonement process Leviticus 23:28.
- H2403 chaṭṭâʼâh (sin offering): This term denotes the specific sacrifice required for atonement. Atonement rituals consistently include a sin offering to deal with offenses against God (Exodus 29:36, Numbers 29:11).
- H6031 ʻânâh (to afflict): This word describes the required posture of the people during the Day of Atonement. The act of afflicting one's soul was a necessary component of the observance, indicating humility and repentance Leviticus 23:27.
- H6944 qôdesh (holy): Atonement is an act of profound holiness. The Day of Atonement is a holy convocation, and the atonement made on the altar renders it "most holy unto the LORD" (Leviticus 23:27, Exodus 30:10).
The theological weight of H3725 is centered on the structured, divine provision for dealing with sin:
- A Divinely Appointed Time: Atonement is not arbitrary but is established as a recurring, scheduled event, specifically the "Day of atonement" Leviticus 23:27. This underscores God's organized plan for His people's purification and reconciliation.
- The Inseparability of Sacrifice: The concept is fundamentally linked to sacrifice. Atonement requires specific offerings, such as the "sin offering of atonement" Numbers 29:11 and the blood of the sin offering, to cleanse the altar and the people Exodus 30:10.
- Achieving Sanctity: The purpose of atonement is to sanctify H6942. Through the act of atonement, the altar is cleansed and made holy, and the people are brought back into a state of ritual purity before a holy God Exodus 29:36.
In summary, H3725 kippur defines a specific, ritualistic form of atonement central to Israel's worship. It is not merely a general concept of forgiveness but is tied to an appointed day, prescribed sacrifices, and even monetary support for the tabernacle. The term illustrates the gravity of sin and the detailed, holy procedures God established for His people to achieve expiation and maintain their covenant relationship with Him.
TRV