Book of Numbers - Chapter 28 - Verse 22

In the Bible, the verse 'And one goat for a sin offering, to make an atonement for you' signifies the importance of sacrifice and atonement in the eyes of God. This verse comes from the Book of Leviticus, where the procedure for atonement and forgiveness of sins is outlined. The act of offering a goat as a sin offering was crucial in the Israelite tradition, as it symbolized the transfer of sin from the people to the innocent animal. By sacrificing the goat, the people believed they were making amends for their wrongdoings and seeking forgiveness from God. The ritual of the sin offering served as a way for the Israelites to acknowledge their sins, express remorse, and seek reconciliation with their Creator. Through this act of sacrifice, they hoped to restore their relationship with God and receive His grace and mercy.

In the theological interpretation of the verse 'And one goat for a sin offering, to make an atonement for you,' the concept of atonement is central. The idea of atonement in the Bible refers to the reconciliation between God and humanity through the sacrifices made for sin. In this specific verse, the goat being offered as a sin offering symbolizes the transfer of guilt and punishment from the people to the animal, thus receiving forgiveness and cleansing from sin. The Hebrew word for "atonement" is "kaphar," which means to cover, appease, or make amends. This shedding of blood as a sin offering was a temporary solution to sin, pointing forward to the ultimate atonement provided by Jesus Christ through his sacrificial death on the cross. Through Christ's atoning sacrifice, believers now have access to eternal forgiveness and reconciliation with God.