The purification-offering, often referred to as the "sin offering" in various translations, is a significant aspect of the sacrificial system outlined in the Old Testament, particularly within the Levitical laws. This offering is primarily detailed in the book of Leviticus and serves as a means for the Israelites to atone for unintentional sins and impurities, thereby restoring their relationship with God.

Biblical Foundation

The primary instructions for the purification-offering are found in Leviticus 4-5. The offering is required when an individual or community becomes aware of a sin committed unintentionally. Leviticus 4:2-3 states, "Speak to the Israelites and say, 'When anyone sins unintentionally and does what is forbidden in any of the LORD’s commands—if the anointed priest sins, bringing guilt on the people, he must bring to the LORD a young bull without blemish as a sin offering for the sin he has committed.'"

Purpose and Significance

The purification-offering serves several purposes:

1. Atonement for Sin: The primary function is to atone for unintentional sins, thereby cleansing the individual or community from impurity. This is crucial for maintaining holiness and the covenant relationship with God.

2. Restoration of Fellowship: By addressing sin and impurity, the offering restores the worshiper's fellowship with God, allowing them to participate fully in the community and religious life.

3. Symbolic Representation: The offering symbolizes the seriousness of sin and the need for divine forgiveness. It underscores the holiness of God and the requirement for His people to be holy.

Procedure

The procedure for the purification-offering varies depending on the status of the sinner:

· For the Anointed Priest: A young bull without blemish is required. The priest must lay his hand on the bull's head, slaughter it, and sprinkle its blood before the LORD, in front of the veil of the sanctuary (Leviticus 4:3-6).

· For the Whole Congregation: If the entire community sins, a young bull is also required. The elders of the congregation lay their hands on the bull's head before it is slaughtered (Leviticus 4:13-15).

· For a Leader: A male goat without blemish is offered. The leader lays his hand on the goat's head before it is slaughtered (Leviticus 4:22-24).

· For a Common Person: A female goat or lamb without blemish is required. The individual lays their hand on the animal's head before it is slaughtered (Leviticus 4:27-29).

In each case, the blood of the sacrifice is applied to the altar, and the fat is burned as a pleasing aroma to the LORD. The remaining parts of the animal are disposed of outside the camp, signifying the removal of sin and impurity from the community.

Theological Implications

The purification-offering highlights the gravity of sin and the necessity of atonement. It points to the holiness of God and His provision for dealing with human sinfulness. The offering foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who, according to the New Testament, fulfills and surpasses the Old Testament sacrificial system. Hebrews 10:10 states, "And by that will, we have been sanctified through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all."

Conclusion

The purification-offering is a profound element of the Old Testament sacrificial system, emphasizing the need for atonement and the restoration of the covenant relationship with God. It serves as a precursor to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who provides complete purification and reconciliation for believers.Purification-offering (1 Occurrence)

Numbers 19:17
And they shall take for the unclean of the ashes of the purification-offering that hath been burned, and shall put running water thereon in a vessel;
(DBY)

Purification-offering (1 Occurrence)
Purification-offering. Purification, Purification-offering. Purifications .
Multi-Version Concordance Purification-offering (1 Occurrence). ...
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Purification (25 Occurrences)

/p/purification.htm - 18k

Purifications (3 Occurrences)

/p/purifications.htm - 7k

Thereon (90 Occurrences)
... Numbers 19:17 And they shall take for the unclean of the ashes of the purification-
offering that hath been burned, and shall put running water thereon in a ...
/t/thereon.htm - 34k

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