Leviticus 5:13
And the priest shall make an atonement for him as touching his sin that he hath sinned in one of these, and it shall be forgiven him: and the remnant shall be the priest's, as a meat offering.
Leviticus 5:13 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the concept of atonement is introduced, which is a central theme in the Bible. Atonement refers to the act of making amends for a wrongdoing or sin. In ancient Israelite society, the priest played a crucial role in the atonement process. Here, the priest is depicted as mediating between the individual and God in order to facilitate forgiveness for the sin committed. The act of atonement involved the offering of a meat offering as a symbol of reconciliation and restoration of the relationship between the individual and God. The idea of forgiveness is also emphasized in this verse, highlighting the belief in the possibility of redemption and reconciliation with God through the act of atonement. Ultimately, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking forgiveness for one's sins and the role of the priest in facilitating this process.
Theological Overview
In this verse from Leviticus, we see the concept of atonement being carried out by the priest on behalf of the individual who has sinned. This act of atonement involves a sacrifice that will ultimately result in forgiveness for the individual's sin. The Hebrew word for atonement used in this verse is 'kaphar,' which means to cover, pardon, or appease. The idea behind atonement in the Old Testament is that sin creates a separation between human beings and God, and only through the shedding of blood can that separation be bridged. The meat offering mentioned at the end of the verse was part of the ritual of atonement, symbolizing communion with God through a shared meal. This verse highlights the importance of seeking forgiveness for sin and the role of the priest as a mediator between the individual and God.
Leviticus 5:13 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the priest shall make atonement for him as touching his sin that he hath sinned in any of these things, and he shall be forgiven: and [the remnant] shall be the priest's, as the meal-offering.
World English Bible
The priest shall make atonement for him concerning his sin that he has sinned in any of these things, and he will be forgiven; and the rest shall be the priest’s, as the meal offering.’”
Douay-Rheims
Praying for him and making atonement. But the part that is left, he himself shall have for a gift.
Geneva Bible (1599)
So the Priest shall make an atonement for him, as touching his sinne that he hath committed in one of these poyntes, and it shall bee forgiuen him: and the remnant shalbe the Priests, as the meate offring.