Old Testament
Leviticus 16:26
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Leviticus 16:26, the instruction is given to the person who releases the scapegoat into the wilderness as part of the Day of Atonement ritual.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
"The man who released the scapegoat into the wilderness must wash his clothes and bathe his body in water before returning to the camp.
And he that let go the goat for the scapegoat shall wash his clothes, and bathe his flesh in water, and afterward come into the camp.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 16:26, the instruction is given to the person who releases the scapegoat into the wilderness as part of the Day of Atonement ritual. This individual must wash their clothes and bathe before returning to the camp. This act symbolizes purification and the need to be clean after handling the goat, which represents the sins of the people being sent away. The washing signifies a physical and spiritual cleansing, emphasizing the seriousness of sin and the importance of being holy before God. The scapegoat ritual illustrates how sins are removed from the community, and the washing serves as a reminder that those involved in the atonement process must also be pure. This practice highlights the connection between physical cleanliness and spiritual readiness, reinforcing the idea that approaching God requires a state of purity.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Leviticus 16:26 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of spiritual and physical cleanliness in our lives. Just as the man had to wash and bathe, we should regularly seek to cleanse ourselves from sin and maintain a pure heart, preparing ourselves to engage with God and our community.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 16:26 mean?
Leviticus 16:26 instructs the person who releases the scapegoat to wash their clothes and bathe before returning to the camp. This act symbolizes the need for purification after handling the goat, which represents the sins of the people being sent away.
What is the significance of the scapegoat in Leviticus 16:26?
The scapegoat in Leviticus 16:26 symbolizes the removal of the community's sins. Releasing the goat into the wilderness signifies that the sins are being taken away, while the washing emphasizes the importance of purity for those involved in the atonement process.
Why must the man wash and bathe in Leviticus 16:26?
The man must wash and bathe to symbolize purification after performing a significant ritual. This act reflects the seriousness of sin and the necessity of being clean before returning to the camp and engaging with the community.
What does the washing in Leviticus 16:26 represent?
The washing in Leviticus 16:26 represents both physical and spiritual cleansing. It highlights the importance of being pure and ready to approach God, reinforcing the connection between cleanliness and holiness.

The Book of Leviticus
Leviticus 1: The Burnt Offering
The LORD calls to Moses from the tabernacle and gives instructions for the burnt offering. A man who brings a burnt offering from the herd presents a male without blemish at the door of the tabernacle. He lays his hand on the head of the offering, kills it, and Aaron's sons the priests sprinkle the blood around the altar. The animal is flayed and cut into pieces, and the whole is burned on the altar as a sweet savor to the LORD.
Unlock the full Leviticus summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Leviticus — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 27 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Leviticus summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.