Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Exodus - Chapter 29 - Verse 36

29:36
And thou shalt offer every day a bullock for a sin offering for atonement: and thou shalt cleanse the altar, when thou hast made an atonement for it, and thou shalt anoint it, to sanctify it.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Exodus outlines the detailed instructions given to the Israelites regarding the daily sin offering for atonement. In the context of the Israelite sacrificial system, the offering of a bullock was meant to cleanse the altar and make atonement for the sins of the people. The act of atonement was crucial in restoring the relationship between the people and God by symbolically removing the guilt and consequences of sin. Additionally, the cleansing and anointing of the altar were symbolic actions representing the sanctification and consecration of the place where offerings were made to God. This process was meant to signify the purification and setting apart of the altar as holy and dedicated to God's service. Overall, this verse emphasizes the importance of atonement, cleansing, and sanctification in the Israelite sacrificial system as a means of restoring the relationship between the people and God.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the command is given to offer a bullock as a sin offering for atonement. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the significance of atonement in cleansing and sanctifying the altar. Atonement signifies reconciliation and restoration of a broken relationship between God and humankind. The act of offering a sin offering emphasizes the need for repentance and the acknowledgment of wrongdoing in the presence of God. The word "atonement" itself carries the idea of making amends for wrongdoing and seeking forgiveness. The cleansing of the altar after the atonement ritual signifies the removal of sin and impurity, making the altar a holy and consecrated place for worship. The anointing of the altar further emphasizes its sanctification, setting it apart for divine purposes. This verse underscores the importance of repentance, forgiveness, and purification in the process of reconciliation with God, reflecting the themes of redemption and grace found throughout the Bible.

American Standard Version

And every day shalt thou offer the bullock of sin-offering for atonement: and thou shalt cleanse the altar, when thou makest atonement for it; and thou shalt anoint it, to sanctify it.
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