### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kisbâh**, represented by `{{H3776}}`, refers specifically to a **young ewe** or **lamb**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in a single verse in the entire Bible. Its singular use defines its role within the context of a specific type of religious offering.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H3776}}` is in [[Leviticus 5:6]], which outlines the requirements for a trespass offering. When a person has sinned, they are instructed to bring their trespass offering (`{{H817}}`) to the LORD (`{{H3068}}`). The offering is specified as a female (`{{H5347}}`) from the flock (`{{H6629}}`), either a **lamb** (`{{H3776}}`) or a kid of the goats (`{{H8166}}`). This animal is designated as a sin offering (`{{H2403}}`), and through this act, the priest (`{{H3548}}`) is to make an atonement (`{{H3722}}`) for the person's sin.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the function of the **lamb** in this context:
* `{{H817}}` **ʼâshâm** (trespass offering): This word signifies guilt or a fault that requires a specific offering. The **lamb** serves as this offering to address the trespass [[Leviticus 5:6]].
* `{{H2403}}` **chaṭṭâʼâh** (sin offering): This term describes both the offense of sin and the sacrifice required for its expiation. The **lamb** is brought as a sin offering to deal with the consequences of sin [[Leviticus 5:6]].
* `{{H3722}}` **kâphar** (make an atonement): This is the purpose of the offering. The root word means to cover, expiate, or placate. The priest uses the sacrificial animal to make reconciliation for the sinner [[Leviticus 5:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3776}}` is rooted in its role within the sacrificial system.
* **Atonement for Sin:** The **lamb** is presented as a means of atonement (`{{H3722}}`) for a specific sin (`{{H2403}}`) that has been committed. This establishes a clear connection between sin and the need for a substitutionary life [[Leviticus 5:6]].
* **Specific Provision:** The law provides a specific type of animal—a female from the flock (`{{H6629}}`)—for the trespass offering (`{{H817}}`). This highlights the detailed nature of God's instructions for approaching Him and dealing with guilt.
* **Mediated Reconciliation:** The offering is brought by the individual, but it is the priest (`{{H3548}}`) who ultimately makes the atonement. This shows that reconciliation with the LORD (`{{H3068}}`) is achieved through a designated mediator and a prescribed sacrifice [[Leviticus 5:6]].
### Summary
In summary, while **kisbâh** `{{H3776}}` is a rarely used word, its single occurrence is highly significant. It is not a general term for a lamb but one specifically designated as a female lamb for a trespass offering. Its use in [[Leviticus 5:6]] places it at the center of the Old Testament's legal framework for dealing with sin, illustrating the foundational principles of substitution, atonement, and priestly mediation required for a person to be reconciled with God.
TRV