Leviticus 4:21
And he shall carry forth the bullock without the camp, and burn him as he burned the first bullock: it is a sin offering for the congregation.
Leviticus 4:21 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Leviticus in the Bible, the significance of carrying the bullock outside the camp and burning it as a sin offering for the congregation is symbolic of the removal of sin from the community. The act of taking the bull outside the camp represents the removal of sin and impurity from the midst of the people. By burning the offering as he did with the first bull, the priest is demonstrating the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. The sin offering was meant to bring about purification and reconciliation between the people and God. This ritual was a way for the Israelites to seek forgiveness and restore their relationship with God after sinning. The practice of offering sacrifices served as a reminder of the holiness of God and the need for repentance. Through these actions, the people were able to acknowledge their wrongdoing and seek forgiveness, paving the way for reconciliation and restoration of their spiritual connection with God.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the act of carrying forth the bullock outside the camp to burn it as a sin offering for the congregation holds significant theological implications. The act of taking the sin offering outside the camp symbolizes the removal of sin from the community, emphasizing the need for purity and holiness within the congregation. The burning of the bullock signifies the complete atonement for the sins of the people, as the offering is consumed by fire, representing the purification of the people through the sacrifice. Additionally, the repetition of burning the bullock, as done with the first bullock, underscores the consistency and faithfulness of God in providing a way for the people to be forgiven and reconciled to Him. By studying the context and significance of each word in the verse, we can gain a deeper understanding of the theological themes of atonement, purification, and forgiveness in the Old Testament sacrificial system.
Leviticus 4:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he shall carry forth the bullock without the camp, and burn it as he burned the first bullock: it is the sin-offering for the assembly.
World English Bible
He shall carry the bull outside the camp, and burn it as he burned the first bull. It is the sin offering for the assembly.
Douay-Rheims
But the calf itself he shall carry forth without the camp, and shall burn it as he did the former calf: because it is for the sin of the multitude.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For he shall carie the bullocke without the hoste, and burne him as he burned the first bullock: for it is an offring for the sinne of the Congregation.