Numbers 15:27 (KJV)

What does Numbers 15:27 mean?

Numbers 15:27 says that if an individual accidentally commits a sin without realizing it, that person should bring a young female goat as a sin offering. This instruction provides a specific way for someone to seek forgiveness for unintentional wrongdoing.

In this verse, God is giving Moses instructions for the Israelites about what to do when someone sins by mistake. The focus is on unintentional sin, not deliberate rebellion. The verse sets out a clear, practical step for restoring the relationship between the person and God through a particular sacrifice.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 15:27

• "soul" (נֶפֶשׁ, nefesh): This word often means "person" or "individual," emphasizing that the instruction is for anyone, not just leaders or groups.
• "sin" (חָטָא, chata): This word refers to missing the mark or failing, often unintentionally, which matches the context of accidental wrongdoing.
• "ignorance" (שְׁגָגָה, shegagah): This word points to a mistake made without awareness, highlighting that the offering is not for willful or defiant acts.
• "offering" (חַטָּאָה, chatta'ah): This is the word for "sin offering," a specific type of sacrifice meant to address and remove the guilt of unintentional sin.

Why Numbers 15:27 matters

• Numbers 15:27 clarifies that even unintentional sins were taken seriously and required a response, showing the importance of awareness and responsibility in the community.
• The verse highlights that forgiveness was accessible to any individual, not just leaders or the whole nation, making the law personal and inclusive.
• This instruction fits into a larger section about different kinds of sin and offerings, helping the reader see how ancient Israel distinguished between intentional and unintentional wrongdoing.