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Leviticus 4:30

And the priest shall take of the blood thereof with his finger, and put it upon the horns of the altar of burnt offering, and shall pour out all the blood thereof at the bottom of the altar.

Leviticus 4:30 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, the act of the priest taking the blood of the offering and putting it on the horns of the altar of burnt offering holds significant symbolism and spiritual meaning. The blood represents atonement for sin and the act of transferring sin from the penitent to the sacrificial animal. By placing the blood on the horns of the altar, the sin is symbolically transferred to the altar itself, which serves as a representation of God's presence. This act of atonement and sacrifice was a central part of the religious practices in the Old Testament, highlighting the importance of seeking forgiveness and reconciliation with God. The pouring out of all the blood at the bottom of the altar signifies the complete and total nature of this act of atonement, emphasizing the seriousness and significance of seeking forgiveness and making amends for wrongdoing. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the need for repentance, sacrifice, and spiritual renewal in the pursuit of holiness and righteousness.

Theological Overview

The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the significance of blood in ancient Hebrew religious practices, specifically in the context of atonement for sin. The act of placing blood on the horns of the altar of burnt offering symbolizes the purification and consecration of the altar, making it acceptable for sacrificial offerings. This action signifies the transfer of the sins of the people onto the sacrificial animal, whose blood was then used to cleanse and reconcile the people with God. The pouring out of all the blood at the bottom of the altar further emphasizes the complete removal of sin and the restoration of fellowship between God and his people. Additionally, the use of the priest's finger conveys a sense of precision and intentionality in the ritual, underscoring the seriousness and sacredness of the act.

Leviticus 4:30 in other translations

American Standard Version

And the priest shall take of the blood thereof with his finger, and put it upon the horns of the altar of burnt-offering; and all the blood thereof shall he pour out at the base of the altar.

World English Bible

The priest shall take some of its blood with his finger, and put it on the horns of the altar of burnt offering; and the rest of its blood he shall pour out at the base of the altar.

Douay-Rheims

And the priest shall take of the blood with his finger, and shall touch the horns of the altar of holocaust: and shall pour out the rest at the foot thereof.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Then the Priest shall take of the blood thereof with his finger, and put it vpon the hornes of the burnt offring altar, and powre all the rest of the blood thereof at the foote of the altar,