Leviticus 1:4

He is to lay his hand on the head of the burnt offering, so it can be accepted on his behalf to make atonement for him.

Study Bible

He is to lay his hand on the head of the burnt offering
This act of laying hands on the offering symbolizes identification and transfer. In ancient Israelite culture, this gesture signified the transfer of the individual's sins onto the animal, representing a substitutionary atonement. The laying on of hands is a recurring biblical theme, seen in the ordination of priests (Numbers 8:10) and the commissioning of leaders (Deuteronomy 34:9). It signifies a personal connection and responsibility, emphasizing the offerer's active role in the sacrificial process.

so it can be accepted on his behalf
The acceptance of the offering on behalf of the individual highlights the concept of substitutionary atonement, where the animal takes the place of the sinner. This principle is foundational in the sacrificial system and foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who was accepted by God on behalf of humanity (Ephesians 5:2). The acceptance also indicates God's willingness to forgive and restore the relationship between Himself and the offerer.

to make atonement for him
Atonement involves reconciliation between God and humanity, achieved through the covering or removal of sin. In the Old Testament, atonement was a central theme, with the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) being the most significant observance (Leviticus 16). The Hebrew word for atonement, "kaphar," means to cover, cleanse, or appease. This sacrificial system points to the ultimate atonement made by Jesus Christ, whose death and resurrection provide the final and complete atonement for sin (Hebrews 9:12-14). The concept of atonement underscores the seriousness of sin and the necessity of a mediator between God and humanity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Offerer
The individual bringing the burnt offering, representing the sinner seeking atonement.

2. The Burnt Offering
A sacrificial animal, typically a bull, sheep, or goat, offered entirely to God as a symbol of complete surrender and atonement.

3. The Altar
The place where the burnt offering is presented and sacrificed, symbolizing the meeting point between God and man.

4. The Priest
The mediator who performs the sacrificial rites, representing the role of intercession between God and the offerer.

5. The Tabernacle
The sacred place where the offerings are made, representing God's dwelling among His people.

Teaching Points

Understanding Atonement
The laying of hands on the burnt offering signifies the transfer of sin and the need for atonement. This act foreshadows Christ's atoning work on the cross.

Symbol of Complete Surrender
The burnt offering, consumed entirely by fire, represents total dedication to God. Believers are called to live lives fully surrendered to Him.

Role of the Mediator
The priest's role in the sacrificial process highlights the necessity of a mediator. Jesus is our ultimate High Priest, interceding on our behalf.

God's Provision for Sin
The sacrificial system demonstrates God's provision for dealing with sin, pointing to the ultimate provision in Jesus Christ.

Personal Reflection and Repentance
The act of laying hands on the offering invites personal reflection on one's sinfulness and the need for repentance and forgiveness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the act of laying hands on the burnt offering in Leviticus 1:4 symbolize the transfer of sin, and how is this concept fulfilled in the New Testament?

2. In what ways does the burnt offering represent complete surrender to God, and how can we apply this principle in our daily lives as described in Romans 12:1?

3. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 1:4 point to the necessity of a mediator, and how is this fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ according to Hebrews 10?

4. Reflect on the significance of God's provision for atonement in the Old Testament sacrificial system. How does this deepen your understanding of Christ's sacrifice on the cross?

5. What practical steps can you take to ensure that your life is a "living sacrifice" to God, fully dedicated and surrendered to His will? Consider connections to 1 Peter 2:24 in your response.

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 22
The account of Abraham and Isaac, where God provides a ram as a substitute, prefiguring the concept of substitutionary atonement.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the insufficiency of animal sacrifices and the ultimate fulfillment in Christ's sacrifice.

Isaiah 53
Describes the suffering servant who bears the iniquities of others, pointing to Jesus as the ultimate atonement.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the complete surrender symbolized by the burnt offering.

1 Peter 2:24
Speaks of Christ bearing our sins in His body, fulfilling the atonement foreshadowed in Leviticus.