Old Testament
Leviticus 5:11
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If they can't even afford 2 turtledoves or 2 young pigeons, they must bring a tenth of an ephah of fine flour as a sin offering. They must not put oil on it or add frankincense to it, because it is a sin offering.
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But if he be not able to bring two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, then he that sinned shall bring for his offering the tenth part of an ephah of fine flour for a sin offering; he shall put no oil upon it, neither shall he put any frankincense thereon: for it is a sin offering.
What Leviticus 5:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 5:11, God provides a way for those who cannot afford the usual offerings of turtledoves or pigeons to still make a sin offering. Instead of birds, they can bring a small amount of fine flour, specifically a tenth of an ephah. This shows God's understanding of people's financial situations and His desire for everyone to have a way to seek forgiveness. The flour offering is simple and does not include oil or frankincense, which are typically used in other offerings. This emphasizes the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement, regardless of one's economic status. It reflects God's mercy and inclusivity, allowing even the poorest to participate in the sacrificial system and maintain a relationship with Him.
How to apply Leviticus 5:11 to your life
This verse teaches us that God values our hearts over our material possessions. Even if we feel we have little to offer, we can still seek forgiveness and maintain our relationship with God. It encourages us to approach God honestly, regardless of our circumstances.
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 5:11 say about sin offerings for the poor?
Leviticus 5:11 states that if someone cannot afford the usual offerings of two turtledoves or two young pigeons, they can bring a tenth of an ephah of fine flour as a sin offering. This provision highlights God's understanding of financial hardship and His desire for everyone to have a means to seek forgiveness.
Why is oil and frankincense not allowed in the flour offering?
In Leviticus 5:11, the flour offering is specified to exclude oil and frankincense because it is a sin offering. This simplicity underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement, emphasizing that the offering's purpose is to seek forgiveness rather than to enhance its presentation.
How does Leviticus 5:11 reflect God's mercy?
Leviticus 5:11 reflects God's mercy by providing an accessible option for those who are financially unable to offer the standard sacrifices. It shows that God values the heart and intention behind the offering more than the material value, allowing even the poorest individuals to seek forgiveness and maintain a relationship with Him.
What can we learn from Leviticus 5:11 about worship?
Leviticus 5:11 teaches that worship and seeking forgiveness are accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial status. It encourages believers to approach God honestly and sincerely, reminding us that God desires our hearts and intentions over our material possessions.
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