Leviticus, Pathway to Presence: Reconciliation
Sunday we will continue our study by looking at the Day of Atonement. We were introduced to the ritual of this day in the first couplet that addresses sin offerings (chpt. 4) and the holy convocation (chpt. 23). This is a critical day for the nation as the high priest enters not just the Tent of Meeting, but the Holy of Holies, behind the veil of separation, to sprinkle the atoning blood on the mercy seat before the Lord. This annual ceremony cleanses the holy place and propitiates God’s justness. Life is given for life, so that man could be reconciled to God and remain in his presence.
The text brings us back to chapter 10, where Nadab and Abihu approach the Lord with unlawful incense and God slays them, saying, “The LORD spoke to Moses after the death of the two sons of Aaron, when they drew near before the Lord and died” (Lev. 16:1). This instruction concerning entering the holy place may indicate that Aaron’s sons breached that area with their offering. God lays out detailed instructions for Aaron to follow at the appointed annual convocation to avoid a similar death and accomplish the reconciliation ceremony.
It isn’t just a day for the priest, everyone must examine themselves. The people are to “afflict themselves,” which refers to fasting and prayer, while avoiding work (Sabbath). Everyone, including foreigners, must hit pause in order to recognize that their sins need to be atoned, so that they can be forgiven and reconciled to God. In addition, as chapter 17 indicates, God built into their daily lives their need for atonement. Whenever an animal was slain for dinner, the blood had to be poured out and dealt with. The reason is that blood of the animal is symbolic of the atoning substitute, therefore it is to be removed before the animal is eaten.
The Day of Atonement is a sacred day when sins are confessed and atoned for by the High Priest, so that Israel can remain in God’s presence. As you prepare for Sunday, consider reading Hebrews 9, which explains Christ’s atonement for us.