Old Testament
Leviticus 16:33
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
and make atonement for the Most Holy Place, for the Tabernacle, for the altar, for the priests, and for all the people of the assembly.
Compare translations
And he shall make an atonement for the holy sanctuary, and he shall make an atonement for the tabernacle of the congregation, and for the altar, and he shall make an atonement for the priests, and for all the people of the congregation.
What Leviticus 16:33 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 16:33, the focus is on the process of atonement, which is a key aspect of the Israelite sacrificial system. Atonement is about making amends for sin and restoring a right relationship with God. This verse highlights that atonement is necessary not just for the people but also for the sacred spaces and objects associated with worship, including the Most Holy Place, the Tabernacle, and the altar. The priests, who serve as mediators between God and the people, also require atonement. This comprehensive approach underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for purification in all aspects of worship. It reflects the belief that sin affects not only individuals but also the community and the places where they meet God. The act of atonement is a reminder of God's holiness and the importance of approaching Him with reverence and purity.
How to apply Leviticus 16:33 to your life
Understanding the need for atonement can help us recognize the seriousness of our own sins. We can seek forgiveness through prayer and repentance, acknowledging that our relationship with God and others requires ongoing reflection and restoration.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joseph, Jacob's son
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Leviticus 16:33
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Leviticus 16:33
Related Bible verses
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 16:33 mean?
Leviticus 16:33 explains the process of atonement, emphasizing that it is necessary for the Most Holy Place, the Tabernacle, the altar, the priests, and the people. This verse highlights the importance of purification in worship and the seriousness of sin.
What is the significance of atonement in Leviticus 16:33?
The significance of atonement in Leviticus 16:33 lies in its role in restoring the relationship between God and His people. It shows that atonement is required not only for individuals but also for sacred spaces and leaders, reflecting the communal impact of sin.
What does 'Most Holy Place' refer to in Leviticus 16:33?
The 'Most Holy Place' in Leviticus 16:33 refers to the innermost sanctuary of the Tabernacle, where God's presence dwelled. Atonement for this space signifies the need for purity in the place where worship occurs.
Why is atonement needed for the priests in Leviticus 16:33?
Atonement is needed for the priests in Leviticus 16:33 because they serve as mediators between God and the people. Their purification is essential to ensure that they can perform their duties without being tainted by sin.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.