Leviticus 22:14

If anyone eats a sacred offering in error, he must add a fifth to its value and give the sacred offering to the priest.

Study Bible

If anyone eats a sacred offering in error
This phrase addresses the unintentional consumption of offerings set apart for the priests. In the Levitical system, certain portions of sacrifices were designated for the priests and their families (Leviticus 7:31-34). The sacred offerings were holy and meant to be consumed only by those who were ritually clean and authorized. The concept of unintentional sin is significant in the Old Testament, highlighting human fallibility and the need for atonement (Numbers 15:22-29). This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's provision for human error and the importance of maintaining holiness.

he must add a fifth to its value
The requirement to add a fifth (20%) to the value of the consumed offering serves as restitution and a penalty for the error. This principle of restitution is seen elsewhere in the Mosaic Law, such as in Leviticus 5:16 and Numbers 5:7, emphasizing justice and the restoration of what was lost or misused. The additional fifth underscores the seriousness of maintaining the sanctity of what is holy and the need for accountability in the community.

and give the sacred offering to the priest
The restitution is to be given to the priest, restoring the loss of the sacred offering. This act reaffirms the priest's role as a mediator between God and the people, a role that foreshadows the ultimate mediation of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 4:14-16). The priesthood in Israel was a type of Christ, pointing to His future work as the High Priest who would offer Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for sin (Hebrews 9:11-14). This requirement also highlights the communal aspect of worship and the support of those who serve in the temple, ensuring that the priests could continue their sacred duties.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priests
The priests were the descendants of Aaron, responsible for performing sacrifices and maintaining the sanctity of the tabernacle and later the temple. They were the recipients of the sacred offerings.

2. Israelites
The people of Israel, who were given the Law through Moses, including the instructions on offerings and sacrifices.

3. Sacred Offering
These were portions of sacrifices dedicated to God, which were to be consumed by the priests and their families under specific conditions.

4. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites, where offerings and sacrifices were made.

5. Restitution
The act of making amends for a wrong, in this case, the unintentional consumption of a sacred offering.

Teaching Points

Understanding Sacredness
Recognize the importance of respecting what is sacred and set apart for God. This respect extends to how we treat God's Word, His people, and His creation.

The Principle of Restitution
Acknowledge the biblical principle of making amends for wrongs, even when they are unintentional. This teaches us about responsibility and integrity in our relationships with others.

Intentional Living
Be mindful of our actions and their impact on others. Even unintentional actions can have consequences, and we are called to address them appropriately.

Generosity in Restitution
The addition of a fifth to the restitution highlights the importance of going beyond mere compensation, reflecting a heart of generosity and repentance.

Holiness in Daily Life
The call to holiness in Leviticus extends to our everyday actions, encouraging us to live in a way that honors God and respects His commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of sacred offerings in Leviticus 22:14 relate to our understanding of what is sacred in our lives today?

2. In what ways can the principle of restitution be applied in modern-day conflicts or misunderstandings?

3. How does the requirement to add a fifth to the restitution reflect God's character and expectations for His people?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure we are living intentionally and avoiding unintentional wrongs?

5. How can the teachings in Leviticus 22:14 inspire us to pursue holiness in our daily lives and interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 5:15-16
This passage also discusses the concept of restitution for unintentional sins, emphasizing the need to make amends and add a fifth to the restitution.

Numbers 5:5-8
This passage outlines the general principle of restitution for wrongs committed, highlighting the importance of restoring what was taken plus an additional amount.

Matthew 5:23-24
Jesus teaches about reconciliation and making things right with others before offering gifts at the altar, reflecting the principle of restitution and reconciliation.