“The priest who is anointed and ordained to succeed his father as high priest is to make atonement. He is to put on the sacred linen garments and make atonement for the Most Holy Place, for the tent of meeting and the altar, and for the priests and all the members of the community.” (Leviticus 16:32–33, New International Version)
Leviticus 16 describes the most solemn and sacred day appointed for the Israelites—the Day of Atonement, or Yom Kippur. It offers a rich tapestry that unveils deep truths about God’s holiness, humanity’s need for cleansing, and the fullness of Christ’s redemptive work.
The Hebrew term Kippur comes from kaphar, to “cover” or “atone.” It implies not merely the hiding of sins but rather a purposeful covering, making reconciliation possible. This meticulous ceremony was vital to Israel’s spiritual health, as it restored the community’s relationship with their holy God.
The high priest alone entered the Holy of Holies once per year, releasing incense that formed a protective cloud—a symbol of reverence and safeguard against casually viewing God’s glory (v. 13). The seriousness of entering God’s presence vividly demonstrates His ultimate holiness and transcendence.
One unique feature of Yom Kippur was the offering involving two goats: one sacrificed as a sin offering, and the other, known as the “scapegoat” (Hebrew Azazel), sent into the wilderness bearing the people’s sins (vv. 8–10).
The exact meaning of Azazel remains debated among Hebrew scholars. Some see it as a proper name of a wilderness demon, highlighting a cultural backdrop of purging evil from the land. Others interpret it simply as “a goat that departs,” symbolizing complete removal of sin. In both interpretations, clear spiritual truths emerge: God removes sin completely, separating it from His people (see Psalm 103:12 and Micah 7:19).
The ritual of confessing the sins of the entire community onto the scapegoat beautifully illustrates corporate responsibility, a message often lost in Western individualistic thinking. It reminds us that sin impacts community and that redemption and holiness are community-focused realities.
While Yom Kippur rituals may appear distant to modern readers, archaeological findings illuminate our understanding. Excavations near ancient Shiloh and Jerusalem have illustrated the profound care Israel took toward ceremonial purity and sacred space, further underscoring their reverence for God’s commanded rituals. Likewise, rabbinic traditions recorded much later (like in the Mishnah’s tractate “Yoma”) preserve fascinating details on how the ancient Israelites interpreted these ceremonies and expressed community repentance.
Leviticus 16 enlightens our understanding of Christ’s priestly role, vividly explained in the New Testament book of Hebrews. Hebrews 9:11–14 and 10:19–22 describe Jesus entering the Holy of Holies, not once annually but once and forever, offering His own precious blood to secure an eternal redemption. While Aaron had to atone first for himself before representing the people, Jesus, spotless and without sin, acts perfectly as both Sacrifice and High Priest.
Early church leaders and theologians like Augustine, Calvin, and Luther reflected deeply on Leviticus 16, emphasizing how profoundly the Day of Atonement foreshadowed the atoning work of Christ. In Christ, our sins are not just covered, they are finally and eternally removed.
Yom Kippur should remind us to approach God’s presence in humility and reverence, never taking our full access to Him through Christ lightly. It calls us to confess our communal sins—divisions, injustice, spiritual apathy—and intentionally embrace restorative obedience.
The poetic imagery and spiritual meaning of this holy day invites us into reflective examination, repentance, and communal restoration. Let us cling to Christ, the one who bears our sins and reconciles us forever with our Holy God.
“Before the Throne of God Above” (Charitie Lees Bancroft,
1863)
Deeply capturing Christ’s ongoing priestly work and our privileged
access to God through Him.
Holy and Merciful Father,
We stand humbled before Your holiness and grace. Thank You that through
Christ our perfect High Priest, our sins are removed forever, casting
them as far as the east is from the west. Renew our awe and devotion to
You; shape us into a community of purity, reconciliation, and love.
Teach us to behold Your holiness with reverence, and comfort us with the
assurance of Your eternal redemption. In Jesus’ precious name we pray.
Amen.