Leviticus 5:18
And he shall bring a ram without blemish out of the flock, with thy estimation, for a trespass offering, unto the priest: and the priest shall make an atonement for him concerning his ignorance wherein he erred and wist it not, and it shall be forgiven him.
Leviticus 5:18
Leviticus 5:18 returns to the pattern of atonement for sins of ignorance: a ram without blemish is offered, with the priest making atonement for the ignorant sin, and forgiveness granted. This reinforces the idea that God provides a concrete path to forgiveness for unintentional violations, maintaining communal purity while recognizing human fallibility.
The verse emphasizes absolution through sacrifice coupled with priestly mediation. It highlights God’s patient mercy: though people are fallible, forgiveness is accessible through proper ritual and leadership. It also shows that ignorance does not excuse sin but is still met with a disciplined response.
In everyday life, this invites seeking forgiveness and reconciliation when you realize you’ve acted wrongly, even if you didn’t know better at the time. If you learn you harmed someone unintentionally, initiate repair and accountability with humility, and involve appropriate leaders or mentors if needed.
Cross-References: Leviticus 4:27-31; Hebrews 9:11-14; James 5:16; 1 John 2:2