Leviticus 16:10
But the goat, on which the lot fell to be the scapegoat, shall be presented alive before the LORD, to make an atonement with him, and to let him go for a scapegoat into the wilderness.
Leviticus 16:10 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from Leviticus 16:10, the concept of the scapegoat is introduced as part of the Day of Atonement ritual in ancient Israelite culture. The scapegoat was a central element of the sacrificial system, where one goat was chosen by lot to be presented alive before the Lord. This chosen goat would symbolically carry the sins of the people and make atonement for them. After this act of atonement, the goat would be released into the wilderness, carrying away the sins of the people and symbolizing the removal of their guilt and transgressions. This ritual served to demonstrate the need for repentance and forgiveness, as well as the importance of the community coming together to seek reconciliation with God. The scapegoat was a powerful symbol of redemption and liberation, highlighting the belief in God's mercy and forgiveness towards His people. Through this act, the people were reminded of the consequences of sin and the necessity of seeking forgiveness and redemption in their relationship with God.
Theological Overview
When examining the theological interpretation of the verse, it is important to note the symbolic significance of the scapegoat in the context of atonement. In this verse, the scapegoat is chosen by lot to bear the sins of the people of Israel and carry them away into the wilderness. This act of transferring guilt onto the scapegoat serves as a powerful imagery of the removal of sin from the community and the restoration of fellowship with God. The live presentation of the goat before the Lord emphasizes the sacred nature of this ritual and underscores the seriousness of seeking forgiveness for transgressions. The word "scapegoat" itself has become a metaphor for someone who is unfairly blamed or made to bear the consequences of others' actions, highlighting the enduring relevance of this biblical concept in understanding human nature and the need for redemption. Through word studies, we can delve deeper into the original Hebrew text to uncover layers of meaning and gain a richer understanding of the theological implications of this verse.
Leviticus 16:10 in other translations
American Standard Version
But the goat, on which the lot fell for Azazel, shall be set alive before Jehovah, to make atonement for him, to send him away for Azazel into the wilderness.
World English Bible
But the goat, on which the lot fell for the scapegoat, shall be presented alive before Yahweh, to make atonement for him, to send him away for the scapegoat into the wilderness.
Douay-Rheims
But that whose lot was to be the emissary goat, he shall present before the Lord, that he may pour prayers upon him, and let him go into the wilderness.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But the goate, on which the lot shall fall to be the Scape goate, shalbe presented aliue before the Lord, to make reconciliation by him, and to let him go (as a Scape goate) into the wildernes.