Leviticus 5:13

And the priest shall make an atonement for him as touching his sin that he hath sinned in one of these, and it shall be forgiven him: and the remnant shall be the priest’s, as a meat offering.

Leviticus 5:13 (KJV)

Context

Leviticus, the third book of the Old Testament, records the laws God gave to Israel through Moses. Chapter 5 deals with offerings for unintentional sins. This verse concludes a section about the sin offering for such sins (Leviticus 5:1-13).

Meaning

When a person sinned unintentionally, he brought an offering to the priest. The priest made atonement for him, and the sin was forgiven. The “remnant“—the portion not burned—belonged to the priest, just like the grain offering described in Leviticus 2. This provision supplied the priests with food and supported their ministry. It also shows that God cares for those who serve Him, ensuring they receive what they need from the offerings of the people. The priest acted as mediator, and his prescribed action secured complete forgiveness for the sinner.

Biblical connections

The sacrificial system points to Jesus Christ. He is both the perfect sacrifice and the great High Priest, making atonement once for all (Hebrews 9:11-14, 10:10-14). His death fulfilled the Old Testament requirements, providing complete forgiveness for all who trust in Him. The role of the priest as mediator foreshadows Christ’s unique work, and the principle of substitution points directly to the gospel.

Application

This verse teaches the seriousness of sin, even when committed unintentionally. Believers must recognize and confess their shortcomings, and regular self-examination remains essential. Forgiveness is complete and assured when the prescribed offering is brought in faith. The priest’s share reminds us to be generous toward those who serve in spiritual ministry, as God provides for His workers through the offerings of His people. This generosity is not merely a duty but a joyful response to God’s provision.

Reflection

The process required active participation. The sinner had to bring the offering and cooperate with the priest. Likewise, Christians are called to actively engage in confession, repentance, and reliance on Christ’s atoning work rather than expecting forgiveness passively. While the ceremonial regulations are no longer observed, the call to acknowledge sin, seek forgiveness through Christ, express gratitude to ministry leaders, and participate in God’s redemptive work remains profoundly relevant today. The assurance of forgiveness through Christ gives believers confidence to approach God and live in grateful obedience.