### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻăzâʼzêl**, represented by `{{H5799}}`, is translated as **scapegoat** and is derived from terms meaning "goat of departure." It appears **4 times** across **3 unique verses**, exclusively within the instructions for the Day of Atonement. This term identifies the specific goat chosen to symbolically carry away the sins of the people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5799}}` is central to the ceremony detailed in Leviticus 16. Aaron is instructed to cast lots `{{H1486}}` over two goats `{{H8163}}`. One lot designates a goat for the LORD, while the other designates a goat for the **scapegoat** [[Leviticus 16:8]]. This second goat, the one for the **scapegoat**, is presented alive before the LORD to make an atonement `{{H3722}}` and is then sent away `{{H7971}}` into the wilderness `{{H4057}}` [[Leviticus 16:10]]. The ritual concludes with the person who led the goat away undergoing purification by washing `{{H3526}}` his clothes and bathing `{{H7364}}` his flesh [[Leviticus 16:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of the scapegoat ceremony:
* `{{H1486}}` **gôwrâl** (lot): This word, defined as "a pebble, i.e. a lot" or "a portion or destiny," is the means by which the scapegoat is chosen. The casting of lots upon the two goats determines their fate, one for the LORD and one for the scapegoat [[Leviticus 16:8]].
* `{{H3722}}` **kâphar** (make an atonement): This primitive root means "to cover... to expiate or condone... make (an atonement)." The purpose of presenting the live goat is explicitly "to make an atonement with him" before it is sent away [[Leviticus 16:10]].
* `{{H7971}}` **shâlach** (send away): This verb, meaning "to send away, for, or out," describes the ultimate action taken with the scapegoat. The goat is not sacrificed but is instead sent away, carrying the confessed sins of Israel into the wilderness [[Leviticus 16:21]].
* `{{H8163}}` **sâʻîyr** (goat): This word for a shaggy "he-goat" identifies the animal used in the ritual. Aaron is to take two goats, and after laying hands on the live goat and confessing Israel's sins over it, he sends it away into the wilderness [[Leviticus 16:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5799}}` is concentrated in the Day of Atonement ritual.
* **Removal of Sin:** The core function of the scapegoat is to physically carry away the confessed iniquities, transgressions, and sins of the people, which are placed upon its head by the high priest [[Leviticus 16:21]]. Its journey into the wilderness `{{H4057}}` provides a tangible picture of sin being removed from the community.
* **Divine Appointment:** The selection of the scapegoat is not a human choice but is determined by casting a **lot** `{{H1486}}`, signifying a divinely ordained process [[Leviticus 16:8]]. This act of separation is part of God's prescribed system for making **atonement** `{{H3722}}`.
* **Vicarious Atonement:** While one goat is for the LORD (implying sacrifice), the scapegoat makes atonement by being sent away alive [[Leviticus 16:10]]. This highlights a distinct aspect of atonement focused on the removal and departure of sin, rather than a blood sacrifice.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5799}}` is a highly specific term for the "scapegoat" in the Day of Atonement ceremony. It is not just an animal but a ritual instrument for the symbolic removal of sin. The entire process—from its selection by lot to its departure into the wilderness—illustrates the concept of atonement through the complete separation of a community from its confessed transgressions, as ordained by God.
TRV