Numbers 15:27

Afrikaans Bible (ABA) 2007 (Bybel vir almal)

“Wanneer een persoon 'n fout maak, dan moet hy 'n jaaroud bok-ooi gee om 'n sonde-offer te wees.

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Numbers says that if someone sins without knowing it, they must bring a young she goat as a sin offering. It shows that even unintentional sins require a sacrifice to seek forgiveness.

Explained for Children

Imagine you accidentally broke a toy and didn't know it was your friend's favorite. This verse says you still need to say sorry and maybe bring them a new toy to make up for it. It's like that, but with a special offering to God.

Historical Background

Numbers 15 was written by Moses around 1400 BC for the Israelites wandering in the desert. The passage reflects the laws and rituals required for atonement, emphasizing the need for sacrifice even for unintentional sins.

Living It Out Today

In modern life, if you accidentally hurt someone's feelings, you can still make an effort to apologize and make amends. The act of seeking forgiveness is crucial, even if the wrongdoing was unintentional.

Topics

• forgiveness
• sacrifice
• atonement
• unintentional sin
• repentance
• moral responsibility

Related Verses

• Leviticus 4:27-28
• Leviticus 5:17-18
• Matthew 5:23-24
• 1 John 1:9
• Psalms 32:1-2

Recommended Reading

Commentary Numbers Commentaries → Get This Bible ABA Study Bible →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a she goat symbolize in this verse?

The she goat symbolizes a sacrifice that represents the sinner's remorse and the effort to seek forgiveness for their unintentional sin.

Is it necessary to bring an actual goat today?

No, the practice of animal sacrifice is not required in modern Christianity. Instead, the principle of seeking forgiveness and making amends is emphasized.

How does this verse relate to the New Testament?

The New Testament teaches that Jesus Christ's sacrifice on the cross covers all sins, including unintentional ones, making individual sacrifices unnecessary for Christians.

Why is the goat 'of the first year' mentioned?

The goat being of the first year indicates a young and unblemished animal, symbolizing purity and the seriousness of the offering for atonement.