Leviticus 14:21

Arabic SVD 1865 Version (Smith and Van Dyke)

لكن ان كان فقيرا ولا تنال يده يأخذ خروفا واحدا ذبيحة اثم لترديد تكفيرا عنه وعشرا واحدا من دقيق ملتوت بزيت لتقدمة ولجّ زيت

What Does This Mean?

This verse explains that if someone is poor and cannot afford the usual offering, they can bring a lamb, a small amount of flour mixed with oil, and a log of oil to make atonement. The speaker is giving instructions, likely from God, for those who cannot afford the standard offering.

Explained for Children

Imagine if you broke something at a friend's house and wanted to say sorry. If you don't have much money, you can still bring a small gift to show you're sorry. This verse tells us that even if someone is poor, they can still bring a small gift to God to say sorry and make things right.

Historical Background

Leviticus was written by Moses around 1446-1406 BC. This book contains laws and instructions for the Israelites, including how to make offerings to God. The cultural setting is that of a nomadic and agricultural society with a strong emphasis on ritual purity and offerings.

Living It Out Today

Today, this verse can remind us that our offerings to God do not need to be expensive or extravagant. Whether it's time, money, or effort, what matters is the sincerity and willingness to give. Think of a time when you felt you couldn’t give much but did what you could, and consider how that can still be meaningful to God.

Topics

• atonement
• poverty
• offerings
• sacrifice
• forgiveness
• humility

Related Verses

• Leviticus 5:11
• Leviticus 6:17
• Exodus 29:40
• Numbers 6:15
• Matthew 26:7

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to be 'poor' in this context?

In this context, 'poor' refers to someone who lacks the means to provide the standard offering. The verse provides an alternative offering for those who cannot afford the usual requirements.

How does the offering of a lamb and flour make atonement?

The lamb symbolizes a sacrifice, and the flour offering represents a gift to God. These elements combined serve as a means of making atonement or seeking forgiveness for wrongdoing.

Can this verse be applied to other forms of sacrifice besides offerings?

Yes, this verse teaches that the sincerity of one's offering is more important than the quantity. This can be applied to other forms of sacrifice, such as giving time or effort, which can be equally meaningful to God.

Is this verse still relevant in modern times?

Absolutely. While we no longer make animal sacrifices, the principle of offering the best we have, regardless of how small, remains important. This verse encourages us to give sincerely from what we have.