And if he be not able to bring a lamb, then he shall bring for his trespass, which he hath committed, two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, unto the LORD; one for a sin offering, and the other for a burnt offering.
LEVITICUS 5:7KJVWhat does Leviticus 5:7 mean?
Leviticus 5:7 explains that if a person cannot afford to bring a lamb as an offering for a sin they have committed, they are allowed to bring two turtledoves or two young pigeons to the LORD instead—one bird for a sin offering and the other for a burnt offering. This verse shows that God made a way for people with fewer resources to participate in the required offerings.
In this part of Leviticus, God is giving instructions to Moses for the Israelites about what to do when someone has sinned and needs to make things right. The verse specifically addresses those who are not able (because of poverty) to bring the more expensive offering of a lamb. By allowing less costly birds, the law makes it possible for everyone, regardless of wealth, to seek forgiveness and restore their relationship with God.
The Hebrew behind Leviticus 5:7
- "able" (דַּי, day): This word means "sufficient" or "enough." The verse uses it to set a practical limit—if someone does not have enough resources, they are not required to bring a lamb.
- "trespass" (אָשָׁם, asham): This word refers to a specific kind of guilt or offense. It highlights that the offering is for a real wrong that needs to be addressed.
- "sin offering" (חַטָּאת, chatat) and "burnt offering" (עֹלָה, olah): These are two different types of sacrifices. The sin offering deals with the guilt of sin, while the burnt offering is about dedication and restoring relationship with God. The verse requires both, even for those bringing birds.
Why Leviticus 5:7 matters
- Leviticus 5:7 clarifies that God's instructions made room for people of all economic backgrounds, showing concern for fairness and accessibility in worship.
- The verse highlights that forgiveness and right standing with God were not only for the wealthy but were available to everyone who sincerely sought it.
- This detail connects to the larger theme in Leviticus of holiness and restoration, emphasizing that God provides practical ways for people to deal with their failures and return to Him.