Bible Commentaries
Leviticus 5

Verses 1-19

Commentators have not been in agreement in their interpretation of this section, some holding that it deals with the sin offering, some that it is the commencement of the trespass offering. I believe that the section dealing with the trespass offering begins here, notwithstanding that in the course of the passage the word "sin offering" occurs frequently. A careful examination will show that the sin offering merges into the trespass offering in interpretation. Trespass is more than a missing of the mark and refers to positive wrongdoing. In the sins mentioned in this paragraph both kinds are recognized.

In the more positive aspects of the trespass offering, two groups are dealt with: first, trespass against God directly in the matter of the holy things, and, second, trespass against one's neighbor In the rest of this chapter we have to do with the first of these. In any sin connected with the holy things of the Lord ignorance is palpable guilt because the commandments had been given with perfect clearness. In the trespass offering, therefore, it will be observed that there are elements of divine requirement and personal restitution. In cases of willful sin restoration must be made. Thus guilt is canceled through vicarious suffering. In some senses it must also be shared by the loss sustained by the guilty.