Leviticus 6:7 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 6:7 mean?

Leviticus 6:7 says that when a priest makes atonement for someone before the LORD, that person is forgiven for anything they have done wrong in their trespasses. The verse highlights that forgiveness is granted through the priest’s actions as part of the ritual God commanded.

In this part of Leviticus, God is giving Moses instructions for the priests about handling cases where someone has sinned against another person—like stealing or lying—and then confessed and made restitution. The priest acts as a mediator, performing a ritual that brings about forgiveness from God for the wrongdoer. This verse wraps up the section by assuring that, after these steps, the person’s guilt is fully dealt with in God’s eyes.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 6:7

• priest (כֹּהֵן, kohen): This word refers to the official religious leader who performs the ritual. The role of the kohen is central, as forgiveness is not automatic but comes through the priest’s mediation.
• atonement (כָּפַר, kaphar): This verb means to cover over or make reconciliation. In this context, it describes the priest’s action that removes the barrier between the person and God, allowing for forgiveness.
• forgiven (סָלַח, salach): This word means to be pardoned or released from guilt. The use of salach here emphasizes that the forgiveness is real and complete, not just a symbolic gesture.
• trespassing (אָשָׁם, asham): This refers to a specific kind of wrongdoing, often involving harm to another person or breaking trust. The verse makes clear that even these serious offenses can be forgiven through the prescribed process.

Why Leviticus 6:7 matters

• Leviticus 6:7 clarifies that forgiveness in ancient Israel was not just a private feeling but involved a public, ritual process overseen by a priest.
• The verse emphasizes that no matter the specific wrong, God’s forgiveness is available when the right steps are taken, showing the seriousness and hopefulness of the system.
• This verse ties together the instructions about restitution and sacrifice, showing that both making things right with others and seeking God’s forgiveness were necessary for true restoration.