Leviticus 16:22

The goat will carry on itself all their iniquities into a solitary place, and the man will release it into the wilderness.

Study Bible

The goat
In the Hebrew text, the word for "goat" is "עזאזל" (Azazel), which has been a subject of much debate among scholars. Traditionally, this goat is known as the "scapegoat," a term that has entered common language to describe someone who takes the blame for others. In the context of Leviticus, the goat represents a profound theological concept: the transfer of sin. The goat is not just an animal but a symbol of substitutionary atonement, prefiguring Christ's ultimate sacrifice. Theologically, it underscores the necessity of a mediator who bears the sins of the people, a role fulfilled by Jesus in the New Testament.

will carry on itself
The Hebrew verb "נשא" (nasa) means "to bear" or "to carry." This action signifies the complete transfer of the people's sins onto the goat. It is a vivid illustration of the burden of sin and the need for it to be removed from the community. This act of carrying away sin is a precursor to the New Testament teaching of Christ bearing our sins on the cross (1 Peter 2:24). It emphasizes the seriousness of sin and the grace of God in providing a means for its removal.

all their iniquities
The term "iniquities" in Hebrew is "עֲוֹנוֹת" (avonot), which refers to moral perversity or guilt. This phrase highlights the comprehensive nature of the atonement being performed. It is not just some sins, but "all" iniquities that are being addressed. This totality points to the sufficiency of God's provision for sin, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture, culminating in the complete and perfect atonement made by Christ.

to a solitary place
The Hebrew phrase "אֶרֶץ גְּזֵרָה" (eretz gezerah) translates to "a land cut off" or "a solitary place." This indicates a place that is uninhabited and separate from the community. Theologically, it represents the removal of sin from the presence of God and His people. This separation is crucial, as it signifies the cleansing and purification necessary for the people to remain in covenant relationship with God. It foreshadows the ultimate separation of sin from believers through Christ's redemptive work.

and the man
The "man" here refers to the individual appointed to lead the goat into the wilderness. This role is significant, as it requires obedience and faithfulness to God's command. The man acts as an intermediary, ensuring that the ritual is completed as prescribed. This reflects the importance of human agency in the divine plan, where God often works through individuals to accomplish His purposes.

will release it
The act of releasing the goat signifies the finality of the sin removal process. The Hebrew verb "שִׁלַּח" (shilach) means "to send away" or "to let go." This release is a powerful symbol of liberation from sin's bondage. It is a tangible demonstration of God's mercy and forgiveness, offering hope and renewal to the people. In the New Testament, this release is mirrored in the freedom believers have in Christ, who has set us free from the law of sin and death (Romans 8:2).

into the wilderness
The "wilderness" in Hebrew is "מִדְבָּר" (midbar), a place of desolation and barrenness. It is often associated with testing and purification in the Bible. By sending the goat into the wilderness, the sins of the people are taken to a place where they can no longer affect the community. This act symbolizes the complete removal and isolation of sin, ensuring that it does not return. It is a powerful image of God's ability to cleanse and renew, preparing His people for a holy and righteous life in His presence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The High Priest
The central figure in the Day of Atonement rituals, responsible for performing the sacrifices and the scapegoat ceremony.

2. The Scapegoat (Azazel)
A goat chosen by lot to symbolically carry the sins of the Israelites into the wilderness, representing the removal of sin from the community.

3. The Wilderness
A desolate place where the scapegoat is released, symbolizing the complete removal and isolation of sin from the people.

4. The Israelites
The community of God's chosen people, whose sins are atoned for through the rituals of the Day of Atonement.

5. The Man Appointed
A designated individual responsible for leading the scapegoat into the wilderness, ensuring the sins are carried away from the camp.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
The elaborate rituals of the Day of Atonement highlight the gravity of sin and the need for atonement. Sin separates us from God and requires a divine solution.

The Role of Substitution
The scapegoat serves as a powerful symbol of substitution, where the innocent bears the guilt of others. This foreshadows Christ's substitutionary atonement on the cross.

God's Provision for Forgiveness
The Day of Atonement demonstrates God's desire to forgive and restore His people. It points to the ultimate provision of forgiveness through Jesus Christ.

The Importance of Repentance
The Israelites were required to afflict their souls and repent during the Day of Atonement. True repentance is essential for experiencing God's forgiveness.

Living in Freedom from Sin
Just as the scapegoat carried away the sins of Israel, believers are called to live in the freedom from sin that Christ provides, not returning to the bondage of sin.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the scapegoat in Leviticus 16:22 help us understand the concept of substitutionary atonement in the New Testament?

2. In what ways does the wilderness setting for the scapegoat's release symbolize the separation of sin from the community?

3. How can the rituals of the Day of Atonement deepen our appreciation for Christ's sacrifice as described in Hebrews 9-10?

4. What practical steps can we take to live in the freedom from sin that Christ offers, as symbolized by the scapegoat carrying away iniquities?

5. How does understanding the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement impact our daily walk with God and our relationships with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 53
This passage describes the Suffering Servant who bears the iniquities of many, paralleling the scapegoat's role in carrying away sins.

Hebrews 9-10
These chapters discuss Christ's role as the ultimate High Priest and the perfect sacrifice, fulfilling and surpassing the Old Testament sacrificial system.

Psalm 103:12
This verse speaks of God removing our transgressions as far as the east is from the west, echoing the symbolism of the scapegoat carrying sins away.