Book of Leviticus - Chapter 16 - Verse 20

When interpreting the verse "And when he hath made an end of reconciling the holy place, and the tabernacle of the congregation, and the altar, he shall bring the live goat:", it is essential to understand the significance of the rituals being described. This verse is part of the instructions given to the high priest for the Day of Atonement, a holy day in the Jewish faith when sins were confessed and atoned for. The act of reconciling the holy place, tabernacle of the congregation, and altar symbolizes the purification and cleansing of sacred spaces to remove any defilement caused by sin. The live goat plays a crucial role in this process, as it symbolizes the transfer of sins from the people onto the animal, which is then sent away into the wilderness, signifying the removal of sin from the community. This ritual is a powerful symbol of forgiveness and restoration, highlighting the importance of repentance and reconciliation in the spiritual life of believers.

As we delve into the theological interpretation of this verse from Leviticus 16:20, we can see the significance of the live goat in the ritual of atonement. The act of reconciling the holy place, the tabernacle of the congregation, and the altar represents the cleansing and purifying of these sacred spaces. The live goat, also known as the scapegoat, plays a crucial role in symbolically carrying away the sins of the people. This ritual highlights the concept of substitutionary atonement, where the sins of the people are transferred onto the goat, which is then sent into the wilderness to bear the burden of their transgressions. This act foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who would take on the sins of humanity and offer Himself as the perfect atonement for all. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the gravity of sin and the need for forgiveness and reconciliation with God.