Leviticus 5:11

But if he cannot afford two turtledoves or two young pigeons, he may bring a tenth of an ephah of fine flour as a sin offering. He must not put olive oil or frankincense on it, because it is a sin offering.

Study Bible

But if he cannot afford two turtledoves or two young pigeons
This phrase highlights the provision for those who are financially unable to offer the standard animal sacrifices. In the ancient Israelite society, economic disparity was acknowledged, and God provided a way for everyone to participate in the sacrificial system. The use of turtledoves or pigeons as offerings was common due to their availability and affordability, as seen in Luke 2:24, where Mary and Joseph offer birds at Jesus' presentation in the temple. This provision underscores God's inclusivity and compassion for the poor.

he may bring a tenth of an ephah of fine flour as a sin offering
A tenth of an ephah is approximately 2.2 liters or about 2 quarts. Fine flour, a staple in ancient diets, was accessible to even the poorest individuals. This offering represents the individual's acknowledgment of sin and desire for atonement. The use of flour instead of an animal signifies the flexibility within the sacrificial system to accommodate different economic situations, emphasizing that the heart's intent is more important than the material value of the offering.

He must not put olive oil or frankincense on it
Olive oil and frankincense were typically added to grain offerings to enhance their aroma and significance, as seen in Leviticus 2:1-2. However, their exclusion here indicates the distinct nature of the sin offering. The absence of these elements emphasizes the somberness of sin and the need for purification rather than celebration. This distinction sets the sin offering apart from other offerings that might symbolize thanksgiving or fellowship.

because it is a sin offering
The sin offering was specifically for atonement and purification from sin, as outlined in Leviticus 4 and 5. It served to restore the relationship between the individual and God, highlighting the seriousness of sin and the necessity of atonement. This offering prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who, as the sinless Lamb of God, provided the final atonement for sin, as described in Hebrews 10:10-12. The sin offering in Leviticus points to the need for a perfect and complete sacrifice, fulfilled in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The original audience of the book of Leviticus, who were given laws and instructions by God through Moses.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the laws from God and communicated them to the people.

3. The Tabernacle
The place where the Israelites worshiped God and where sacrifices were offered.

4. The Sin Offering
A specific type of offering described in Leviticus for atonement of unintentional sins.

5. The Priest
The individual responsible for performing the sacrificial rituals on behalf of the people.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Sin Offering
Leviticus 5:11 provides a provision for those who cannot afford the standard sin offering, highlighting God's grace and inclusivity. It shows that God values the heart's intent over the material value of the offering.

God's Provision for All
The allowance for a lesser offering (fine flour) demonstrates God's understanding and accommodation for the poor, emphasizing that everyone has access to forgiveness regardless of their economic status.

The Heart of Worship
This passage reminds us that true worship and repentance are not about the external rituals but about the sincerity of the heart. God desires a humble and contrite spirit.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The sin offerings in Leviticus point forward to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate and final sin offering. His sacrifice is sufficient for all, regardless of our status or ability to offer materially.

Practical Repentance
In our lives today, repentance should be genuine and accompanied by a change in behavior, reflecting a heart that seeks to align with God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Leviticus 5:11 demonstrate God's concern for the poor and marginalized within the community of Israel?

2. In what ways does the provision for a lesser offering in Leviticus 5:11 reflect the character of God as seen throughout the Bible?

3. How can we apply the principle of sincere repentance in our daily lives, as suggested by the sin offering in Leviticus?

4. How does the concept of the sin offering in Leviticus 5:11 connect to the New Testament understanding of Jesus' sacrifice?

5. What are some practical ways we can ensure that our worship and repentance are genuine and not merely ritualistic, as critiqued in Isaiah 1?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 4
Provides context for the sin offering, detailing the procedures for different types of sin offerings.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the insufficiency of animal sacrifices and points to Christ as the ultimate sacrifice for sins.

Psalm 51
Highlights the importance of a contrite heart over ritual sacrifices, emphasizing inner repentance.

Isaiah 1
Critiques empty ritualism and calls for genuine repentance and justice.

1 John 1:9
Offers assurance of forgiveness through confession and the faithfulness of God.