The Guilt Offering, also known as the Trespass Offering, is a significant component of the sacrificial system outlined in the Old Testament, particularly in the book of Leviticus. This offering is distinct from the Sin Offering, although both address issues of sin and atonement. The Guilt Offering specifically deals with unintentional sins that involve desecration of something holy or violations against others that require restitution.

The primary scriptural reference for the Guilt Offering is found in Leviticus 5:14–6:7. According to these passages, the Guilt Offering is required when a person commits a sin unintentionally against the holy things of the LORD or when they sin against their neighbor. The offering involves the sacrifice of a ram without blemish, and the individual must also make restitution for the wrong committed, adding a fifth of the value to it and giving it to the priest. The priest then makes atonement for the individual with the ram of the Guilt Offering, and the sin is forgiven.

Leviticus 5:15-16 states: "If someone acts unfaithfully and sins unintentionally against any of the LORD’s holy things, he must bring his guilt offering to the LORD: a ram without blemish from the flock, according to your valuation in silver shekels, based on the sanctuary shekel. He must make restitution for the sin he has committed against the holy thing, add a fifth of its value, and give it to the priest. Then the priest will make atonement on his behalf with the ram of the guilt offering, and he will be forgiven."

The Guilt Offering underscores the seriousness of sin, even when committed unintentionally, and the necessity of making things right with both God and fellow humans. It highlights the holiness of God and the importance of maintaining purity and integrity in one's relationship with Him and others.

Blood Application

The application of blood is a central theme in the sacrificial system of the Old Testament, symbolizing atonement, purification, and consecration. Blood, representing life, is used in various rituals to cleanse and sanctify both people and objects, signifying the removal of sin and the restoration of holiness.

In the context of the Guilt Offering, as well as other offerings, the priest plays a crucial role in the application of blood. The blood of the sacrificed animal is often sprinkled or applied to the altar, symbolizing the atonement for sin and the reconciliation between God and the sinner. Leviticus 7:1-7 provides instructions on the handling of the blood in the Guilt Offering, emphasizing the sacredness of the process.

Leviticus 7:2 states: "The guilt offering is to be slaughtered in the place where the burnt offering is slaughtered, and the priest is to sprinkle its blood on all sides of the altar."

The application of blood is not limited to the Guilt Offering but is a recurring element in various sacrifices and rituals, including the Sin Offering, Burnt Offering, and the Day of Atonement. Each instance of blood application serves to remind the Israelites of the cost of sin and the necessity of a substitute to bear the penalty on their behalf.

The New Testament further illuminates the significance of blood application through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose shed blood fulfills and surpasses the Old Testament sacrificial system. Hebrews 9:22 states, "According to the law, in fact, nearly everything must be purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness." This underscores the continuity and fulfillment of the sacrificial system in the person and work of Christ, who provides the ultimate atonement for sin.