Bible Dictionary
Goat, Scape
The scapegoat was the goat sent into the wilderness on the Day of Atonement after the people’s sins were symbolically placed upon it. It represented the removal of Israel’s iniquities from the camp.
Definition
The scapegoat was the goat selected on the Day of Atonement to bear the people’s sins symbolically and be sent into the wilderness. It represented the removal of Israel’s iniquity from the camp.
Biblical Usage
The scapegoat formed part of the ritual of the Day of Atonement. After the sins of the people were symbolically placed upon it, it was sent away into the wilderness.
Historical Background
The supplied material treats the scapegoat under the subject of the Day of Atonement.
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Smith's Bible Dictionary
[Atonement, The Day Of, Day OF]