The Trespass Offering, also known as the Guilt Offering, is a significant sacrificial practice detailed in the Old Testament, particularly within the Levitical law. It is esteemed as a Sin Offering and is frequently referred to as such due to its purpose and function in the atonement process. The Trespass Offering is primarily outlined in the book of Leviticus, where it is distinguished from other offerings by its specific focus on atoning for certain types of transgressions, particularly those involving the violation of God's holy things or the infringement upon the rights of others.

Biblical Foundation

The Trespass Offering is introduced in Leviticus 5:14-19 and further elaborated in Leviticus 6:1-7. It is prescribed for unintentional sins that require restitution, emphasizing the need for both atonement and reparation. The offering is required when an individual commits a sin "in regard to the holy things of the LORD" (Leviticus 5:15) or when a person "sins and acts unfaithfully against the LORD by deceiving his neighbor" (Leviticus 6:2).

Nature and Purpose

The Trespass Offering is distinct in its dual requirement of sacrifice and restitution. The offender must present a ram without blemish as the sacrificial animal, symbolizing the seriousness of the offense and the need for a perfect substitute to bear the guilt. Additionally, the offender is required to make restitution for the wrong committed, often adding a fifth of the value to the restitution amount (Leviticus 5:16). This dual aspect underscores the offering's role in restoring both the sinner's relationship with God and their relationship with others.

Theological Significance

The Trespass Offering highlights the gravity of sin, even when committed unintentionally, and the necessity of addressing both the spiritual and social dimensions of wrongdoing. It underscores the holiness of God and the importance of maintaining purity in one's relationship with Him. The offering serves as a reminder of the need for repentance, restitution, and reconciliation, reflecting the broader biblical themes of justice and mercy.

Connection to the Sin Offering

While the Trespass Offering is distinct in its requirements and focus, it is frequently associated with the Sin Offering due to their shared purpose of atonement. Both offerings address the issue of sin and the need for purification, yet the Trespass Offering specifically deals with sins that have caused harm or loss to others or to the sacred things of God. This connection is evident in the overlapping terminology and the similar sacrificial procedures prescribed for both offerings.

Christological Fulfillment

From a Christian perspective, the Trespass Offering finds its ultimate fulfillment in the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ. As the perfect and final offering for sin, Christ embodies the principles of atonement, restitution, and reconciliation. His sacrifice addresses the full scope of human sin, providing a means for believers to be restored to right relationship with God and with one another. The Trespass Offering, therefore, serves as a foreshadowing of the redemptive work accomplished through Christ's death and resurrection.Leviticus 5:6,9
And he shall bring his trespass offering to the LORD for his sin which he has sinned, a female from the flock, a lamb or a kid of the goats, for a sin offering; and the priest shall make an atonement for him concerning his sin.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

On the Management of the Resources Collected for the Support of ...
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/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 5 1859/the tabernacle of the most.htm

Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
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against the Lord ... So the one took the way which is called Danger, which ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm

part ii
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you sin at every ... in common; not grudging, but freely offering unto others ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm

part i
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//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part i.htm

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