Leviticus 16 describes sacrifices, purification of sanctuary and people, the two goats, and the high priest's entry behind the veil with sacrificial blood. The day also required self-affliction and cessation from work.
Customs & Culture
Day of Atonement
The Day of Atonement was Israel's annual day of solemn purification and atonement, centered on the high priest's unique entrance into the inner sanctuary.
Historical and Cultural Background
Biblical Examples
The Torah establishes the rite, and Hebrews uses its sanctuary and sacrificial imagery to explain the finality of Christ's priestly work.
Biblical Significance
Understanding the annual repetition, restricted access, and cleansing rites gives depth to Hebrews' contrast between the old sanctuary service and Christ's once-for-all sacrifice.
Common Misconceptions
The scapegoat should not casually be identified with Satan; interpretations of the name Azazel are debated.
Historical Setting and Evidence
Culture: Israelite, Judean/Jewish
Period: Exodus and Wilderness, Conquest and Judges, United Monarchy, Divided Monarchy, Kingdom of Judah, Babylonian Exile, Persian Period, Hellenistic Period, Hasmonean Period, Roman / Second Temple Period
Evidence: Well Attested
Interpretive Importance: Essential
Directly prescribed in Torah and extensively discussed in Jewish and Christian sources.
Scripture References
Related Information
Sources
Leviticus 16; Leviticus 23; Hebrews 9-10