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Book of Numbers - Chapter 6 - Verse 11

6:11
And the priest shall offer the one for a sin offering, and the other for a burnt offering, and make an atonement for him, for that he sinned by the dead, and shall hallow his head that same day.

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Numbers, the priest is instructed to offer a sin offering and a burnt offering for someone who has sinned by coming into contact with a dead body. This ritual is meant to bring atonement for the individual's sin and to cleanse them from the spiritual defilement associated with being in the presence of death. By hallowing the individual's head, the priest is symbolically purifying their thoughts and intentions, making them fit to re-enter the community and the presence of God. The act of atonement is crucial in the Hebrew Bible, as it serves as a means of restoring the relationship between the sinner and God, cleansing them of impurities and allowing them to move forward in their spiritual journey. This verse reinforces the importance of repentance, forgiveness, and purification in the religious practices of the Israelites.

Theological Overview

In this verse from Leviticus, there is an important theological interpretation regarding the concept of atonement for sin. The priest is instructed to offer a sin offering and a burnt offering on behalf of the individual who has sinned by coming into contact with a dead body. This ritual was designed to cleanse the person from their impurity and restore their relationship with God. The act of atonement was crucial in the Israelite religion, as it symbolized the individual's repentance and desire to be reconciled with God. Additionally, the verse emphasizes the significance of sanctification, as the individual's head is hallowed on the same day as the offerings are made. This process of purification and sanctification highlights the importance of spiritual cleanliness and the need for continual repentance in order to remain in a right relationship with God.

American Standard Version

and the priest shall offer one for a sin-offering, and the other for a burnt-offering, and make atonement for him, for that he sinned by reason of the dead, and shall hallow his head that same day.
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