Old Testament
Leviticus 16:10
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But the goat chosen by lot as the scapegoat must be presented alive before the LORD, so that atonement can be made through it before sending it into the wilderness as the scapegoat.
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But the goat, on which the lot fell to be the scapegoat, shall be presented alive before the LORD, to make an atonement with him, and to let him go for a scapegoat into the wilderness.
What Leviticus 16:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 16:10, the process of atonement is described through the ritual of the scapegoat. This goat, selected by lot, symbolizes the removal of the people's sins. It is presented alive before God, signifying that the sins are not just forgotten but are transferred to the goat, which is then sent into the wilderness. This act represents the idea of cleansing and separation from sin, illustrating God's mercy and the seriousness of sin. The scapegoat ritual emphasizes the need for a mediator between God and humanity, highlighting the importance of atonement in the relationship with God. The wilderness symbolizes a place of isolation, where the sins are carried away, never to return. This practice foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who takes away the sins of the world, providing a complete and final atonement for humanity.
How to apply Leviticus 16:10 to your life
Understanding the concept of the scapegoat helps us recognize the importance of confessing our sins and seeking forgiveness. Just as the goat carried away the sins of the people, we can find freedom from our burdens through faith and repentance, allowing us to live in a restored relationship with God.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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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 16:10 mean?
Leviticus 16:10 describes the ritual of the scapegoat, where a goat is chosen to symbolically carry the sins of the people into the wilderness, representing atonement and the removal of sin.
What is the significance of the scapegoat in Leviticus 16:10?
The scapegoat in Leviticus 16:10 signifies the transfer of the people's sins, illustrating God's mercy and the need for atonement, as it is sent away to symbolize the cleansing from sin.
What is the purpose of the ritual mentioned in Leviticus 16:10?
The purpose of the ritual in Leviticus 16:10 is to make atonement for the people's sins by presenting the scapegoat alive before God and then sending it into the wilderness, signifying the removal of sin.
How does Leviticus 16:10 relate to forgiveness?
Leviticus 16:10 relates to forgiveness by showing how the scapegoat carries away the sins of the people, emphasizing the importance of confession and seeking forgiveness to restore the relationship with God.
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