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Book of Leviticus - Chapter 5 - Verse 7

5:7
And if he be not able to bring a lamb, then he shall bring for his trespass, which he hath committed, two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, unto the LORD; one for a sin offering, and the other for a burnt offering.

Meaning

In this verse, it outlines a provision for someone who is unable to afford a lamb for a trespass offering. The Israelites were required to bring sacrifices to atone for their sins, both intentional and unintentional, as a way of seeking forgiveness and maintaining a relationship with God. The act of bringing a lamb for a trespass offering was a way for the individual to make amends for their wrongdoing. However, not everyone could afford a lamb, so the provision of two turtledoves or two young pigeons was made for those in such a situation.

The offering of two turtledoves or two young pigeons was significant in the religious practices of ancient Israel. One of the birds was offered as a sin offering, representing the atonement for the individual's sin or trespass. The other bird was offered as a burnt offering, symbolizing the person's dedication and commitment to God. This act of sacrifice was a tangible way for the individual to express their repentance and seek reconciliation with the Lord.

Overall, this verse highlights the importance of sacrificial offerings in the religious practices of the ancient Israelites. It demonstrates the accessibility and inclusivity of the sacrificial system, providing a way for individuals from all walks of life to seek forgiveness and draw closer to God. These offerings served as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance, ultimately pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ as the perfect atonement for all sins.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the offering of two turtledoves or two young pigeons is prescribed for someone who is not able to bring a lamb as a trespass offering. This provision shows the compassion and flexibility of God's law, recognizing the varying circumstances and means of different individuals. The use of turtledoves or pigeons as offerings was common in ancient Israel and symbolized purity and innocence. The sin offering provided atonement for the specific wrongdoing committed, while the burnt offering symbolized total dedication and surrender to God. This offering system highlights the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance and reconciliation with God. Each element of this offering points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who became the perfect atonement for our sins once and for all with His death on the cross.

American Standard Version

And if his means suffice not for a lamb, then he shall bring his trespass-offering for that wherein he hath sinned, two turtle-doves, or two young pigeons, unto Jehovah; one for a sin-offering, and the other for a burnt-offering.
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