‏ Leviticus 16:20

Leviticus 16:20: The Scapegoat and Finishing the Day of Atonement

This section describes what happened after the high priest finished presenting the sacrifices and sprinkling their blood. The main focus is on the scapegoat, which symbolized the removal of the sins of the people. The high priest also completed all the other rituals required for the Day of Atonement. These actions taught Israel about confession, forgiveness, and the complete removal of sin through God’s mercy.

v. 20-21: After the blood sacrifices, the high priest placed both hands on the head of the scapegoat and confessed all the sins of Israel (v. 20, 21 a). This confession was detailed and sincere, listing all kinds of sins and their circumstances. By doing this, the priest symbolically placed the sins of the people onto the goat, according to God’s instructions.

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