Leviticus 16:22 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 16:22 mean?

Leviticus 16:22 describes how the goat, symbolically carrying all the Israelites’ sins, is sent away into an uninhabited land, released into the wilderness. This act represents the removal of the people’s iniquities from the community, as part of the Day of Atonement rituals.

In this verse, God is instructing Moses and Aaron about the ceremony for the Day of Atonement. The priest places the sins of the people onto the goat, which is then led away from the camp into a deserted area. This ritual shows the idea of sins being taken far away, emphasizing a complete separation from wrongdoing.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 16:22

• "Goat" (שָּׂעִיר, saʿir): This word refers to a male goat, specifically chosen for this ritual. Its selection highlights the seriousness and intentionality of the ceremony.
• "Bear" (נָשָׂא, nasa’): This word means to carry or lift up. Here, it emphasizes that the goat is not just leaving but is actively carrying the weight of the people’s iniquities.
• "Iniquities" (עָוֹן, ʿavon): This word means guilt or wrongdoing. The verse stresses that all forms of the people’s moral failings are being placed on the goat.
• "Land not inhabited" (אֶרֶץ גְּזֵרָה, ʾerets gezerah): This phrase means a cut-off or deserted land, underlining that the goat is sent somewhere completely separate from the community, reinforcing the idea of total removal.

Why Leviticus 16:22 matters

• Leviticus 16:22 clarifies that the ritual is not just about sacrifice but about the symbolic removal of sin, helping readers understand the depth of the Day of Atonement.
• The verse emphasizes that the sins are not simply forgiven but are carried away, showing a vivid picture of cleansing and separation from guilt.
• This verse connects to the wider chapter by highlighting the unique role of the scapegoat in Israel’s worship, setting it apart from other offerings and rituals.