Leviticus 5:11 - “‘But if he can’t afford two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, then he shall bring his offering for that in which he has sinned, one tenth of an ephah of fine flour for a sin offering. He shall put no oil on it, and he shall not put any frankincense on it, for it is a sin offering.
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What does "Leviticus 5:11" mean?
Leviticus 5:11 describes an alternative offering for someone who has sinned but cannot afford the standard sin offering of two turtledoves or two young pigeons. Here's a breakdown of the verse and its meaning:
“‘But if he can’t afford two turtledoves, or two young pigeons...” This sets the context: the verse provides a provision for the poor. God understands that not everyone has the financial means to offer the prescribed animal sacrifices.
"...then he shall bring his offering for that in which he has sinned, one tenth of an ephah of fine flour for a sin offering." Instead of an animal, the person can offer a specific amount of fine flour (one tenth of an ephah). This demonstrates that God is more concerned with the sincerity of the penitent heart than with the monetary value of the offering. An ephah was a dry measurement, so one tenth of an ephah was a relatively small amount.
"He shall put no oil on it, and he shall not put any frankincense on it, for it is a sin offering." This is crucial. Normally, flour offerings (like those in Leviticus 2) were presented with oil and frankincense, which were considered costly and valuable additions. Omitting these ingredients from the sin offering signifies that it's specifically for atonement, not for thanksgiving or fellowship.
No Oil: Oil symbolized prosperity, joy, and the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Its absence indicates that the focus is solely on dealing with sin.
No Frankincense: Frankincense was a sweet-smelling incense used in worship, symbolizing prayer and a pleasing aroma to God. Its absence highlights the seriousness and somber nature of sin.
In essence, the verse means:
Accessibility to Atonement: God makes atonement accessible to everyone, regardless of their economic status.
Sincerity over Sacrifice: The intention of the heart is more important than the monetary value of the offering. God desires repentance and reconciliation.
Recognition of Sin: The simple, unadorned flour offering emphasizes the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement.
Specific Purpose: This flour offering is solely for addressing sin, not for other purposes like thanksgiving or fellowship.
Theological Significance:
This verse highlights God's mercy and grace. It demonstrates that atonement isn't just for the wealthy but is available to all who sincerely seek forgiveness. It also foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who paid the price for the sins of all humanity, making atonement accessible to everyone who believes in Him.
Leviticus 5:11 - “‘But if he can’t afford two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, then he shall bring his offering for that in which he has sinned, one tenth of an ephah of fine flour for a sin offering. He shall put no oil on it, and he shall not put any frankincense on it, for it is a sin offering.
What does "Leviticus 5:11" mean?
Leviticus 5:11 describes an alternative offering for someone who has sinned but cannot afford the standard sin offering of two turtledoves or two young pigeons. Here's a breakdown of the verse and its meaning:
“‘But if he can’t afford two turtledoves, or two young pigeons...” This sets the context: the verse provides a provision for the poor. God understands that not everyone has the financial means to offer the prescribed animal sacrifices.
"...then he shall bring his offering for that in which he has sinned, one tenth of an ephah of fine flour for a sin offering." Instead of an animal, the person can offer a specific amount of fine flour (one tenth of an ephah). This demonstrates that God is more concerned with the sincerity of the penitent heart than with the monetary value of the offering. An ephah was a dry measurement, so one tenth of an ephah was a relatively small amount.
"He shall put no oil on it, and he shall not put any frankincense on it, for it is a sin offering." This is crucial. Normally, flour offerings (like those in Leviticus 2) were presented with oil and frankincense, which were considered costly and valuable additions. Omitting these ingredients from the sin offering signifies that it's specifically for atonement, not for thanksgiving or fellowship.
No Oil: Oil symbolized prosperity, joy, and the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Its absence indicates that the focus is solely on dealing with sin.
No Frankincense: Frankincense was a sweet-smelling incense used in worship, symbolizing prayer and a pleasing aroma to God. Its absence highlights the seriousness and somber nature of sin.
In essence, the verse means:
Accessibility to Atonement: God makes atonement accessible to everyone, regardless of their economic status.
Sincerity over Sacrifice: The intention of the heart is more important than the monetary value of the offering. God desires repentance and reconciliation.
Recognition of Sin: The simple, unadorned flour offering emphasizes the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement.
Specific Purpose: This flour offering is solely for addressing sin, not for other purposes like thanksgiving or fellowship.
Theological Significance:
This verse highlights God's mercy and grace. It demonstrates that atonement isn't just for the wealthy but is available to all who sincerely seek forgiveness. It also foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who paid the price for the sins of all humanity, making atonement accessible to everyone who believes in Him.