The Hebrew word sᵉʻîyrâh, represented by H8166, refers to a she-goat or kid. It appears only 2 times across 2 unique verses, where it is used specifically to identify a female goat brought as a sacrificial offering.
In both of its occurrences, H8166 is found within the legal framework for sacrifices in Leviticus. It is prescribed as an offering H7133 to be brought when a person's sin H2403 becomes known H3045 to them Leviticus 4:28. The animal is specifically designated as a "female H5347 from the flock H6629" and is an option for a trespass offering H817 brought before the LORD H3068. The purpose of bringing the kid is explicitly for a priest H3548 to make an atonement H3722 for sin Leviticus 5:6.
Several related words clarify the context and purpose of offering a sᵉʻîyrâh:
- H2403 chaṭṭâʼâh (an offence... sacrifice, or expiation): This word for sin or a sin offering establishes the reason for the sacrifice. The kid is brought "for his sin H2403 which he hath sinned H2398" (Leviticus 4:28, Leviticus 5:6).
- H3722 kâphar (to cover... to expiate or condone): This term defines the action performed by the priest with the offering. The priest uses the kid to "make an atonement H3722 for him concerning his sin" Leviticus 5:6, covering the guilt of the sinner.
- H8549 tâmîym (entire... without blemish): This descriptor is a critical requirement for the sacrificial kid. The animal must be "without blemish H8549," indicating the standard of perfection needed for an acceptable offering to God Leviticus 4:28.
The theological weight of H8166 is tied directly to the Levitical sacrificial system.
- Specified Offering for Sin: The sᵉʻîyrâh is not a generic animal but is specifically named as a valid offering H7133 for both a sin offering H2403 and a trespass offering H817 (Leviticus 4:28, Leviticus 5:6).
- Requirement of Perfection: The command that the kid be "without blemish H8549" underscores a key theological principle: the sacrifice meant to atone for imperfection must itself be perfect and whole Leviticus 4:28.
- Role in Atonement: The animal serves as a substitute in the ritual of atonement H3722. It is brought by the sinner, and through the actions of the priest H3548, it becomes the means by which reconciliation for sin is made Leviticus 5:6.
In summary, H8166 sᵉʻîyrâh is a term with a narrow and precise biblical application. While its literal meaning is simply a she-goat, its scriptural context is confined entirely to the sacrificial system outlined in Leviticus. It functions as a specified, perfect offering brought by an individual to make atonement for sin. The use of sᵉʻîyrâh demonstrates the detailed requirements of the Law for addressing sin through a substitutionary sacrifice.
TRV