Old Testament
Leviticus 14:21
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"If the person is poor and can't afford all of this, they may bring one male lamb as a guilt offering to be waved for their atonement, along with one tenth of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil as a grain offering, and a log of oil,
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And if he be poor, and cannot get so much; then he shall take one lamb for a trespass offering to be waved, to make an atonement for him, and one tenth deal of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering, and a log of oil;
What Leviticus 14:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 14:21, God provides a way for those who are poor to still participate in the rituals of atonement. If someone cannot afford the full offerings required for their cleansing, they are allowed to bring a single male lamb as a guilt offering. This lamb is waved before the Lord as a sign of atonement. Additionally, they are to bring a small amount of fine flour mixed with oil as a grain offering, along with a log of oil. This provision shows God's concern for the marginalized and His desire for everyone to have access to forgiveness and restoration, regardless of their financial situation. It emphasizes that true repentance and atonement are accessible to all, highlighting God's mercy and grace.
How to apply Leviticus 14:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize that God values our hearts over our material wealth. Even if we feel we have little to offer, we can still seek forgiveness and restoration. We should also be mindful of those in need and support them in their spiritual journeys.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Leviticus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 14:21 mean?
Leviticus 14:21 explains that God allows those who are poor to still participate in atonement rituals by offering a single male lamb instead of the full required offerings. This demonstrates God's compassion and desire for everyone to have access to forgiveness.
What is the significance of the lamb in Leviticus 14:21?
The lamb in Leviticus 14:21 serves as a guilt offering that symbolizes atonement for sin. It highlights the importance of sacrifice in seeking forgiveness, even for those who cannot afford the full offerings.
What does the fine flour and oil represent in Leviticus 14:21?
In Leviticus 14:21, the fine flour mixed with oil represents a grain offering, which is a way to honor God and express gratitude. It shows that even small offerings are valuable when given with the right heart.
How does Leviticus 14:21 show God's mercy?
Leviticus 14:21 illustrates God's mercy by providing a way for the poor to participate in atonement rituals, ensuring that financial limitations do not prevent anyone from seeking forgiveness and restoration.
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