Where Are We? — Leviticus 4

By /

Time & Place

  • Time: 1491 BC
  • Location:
    • Wilderness of Sinai (Exod 19:1–2)
    • Tabernacle (Lev 1:1)

Where Are We in the Text?

  • The LORD speaks to Moses concerning the sin offering for unintentional sin (Lev 4:1–2).
  • Instructions are given for the anointed priest who sins, requiring a young bullock for a sin offering (Lev 4:3–12).
  • Provision is made for the whole congregation when sin is committed through ignorance (Lev 4:13–21).
  • Distinct instructions are given for a ruler who sins and for one of the common people (Lev 4:22–35).

Key Persons

  • The LORD — Lawgiver defining the sin offering (Lev 4:1–2).
  • Moses — Mediator receiving instruction on behalf of Israel (Lev 4:1).
  • The anointed priest — Representative priest whose sin brings guilt upon the people (Lev 4:3–12).
  • The congregation of Israel — Corporate body addressed in cases of collective sin (Lev 4:13–21).

Where Are We in Time?

  • The chapter follows the instructions for the burnt, meat (grain), and peace offerings (Lev 1–3).
  • Israel remains encamped at Sinai with the tabernacle functioning as the place of worship (Exod 40:34–38).
  • These instructions are given while Israel remains at Sinai.

Where Are We on the Map?

  • Tabernacle: Location where sin offerings are presented and blood rituals are performed (Lev 4:4–7, 16–18, 24–25).
  • Wilderness of Sinai: Site of Israel’s extended encampment during covenant instruction (Exod 19:1–2).

Where Are We in God’s Program? (Dispensational)

  • Israel continues under the Mosaic Covenant with provision made for atonement of unintentional sin (Exod 24:7–8; Lev 4).
  • The sin offering maintains covenant relationship by addressing defilement within the theocratic system.
  • Priestly mediation and substitutionary sacrifice are formally regulated.

Why This Matters

  • The chapter establishes provision for unintentional sin across different levels of responsibility within Israel (Lev 4).
  • It defines accountability and sacrificial remedy within the Mosaic Law.

How This Chapter Relates to What Follows

  • Additional instructions for trespass offerings will be given (Lev 5–6).
  • Further regulation of the sacrificial system will continue (Lev 1–7).

Summary Orientation

  • The sin offering is instituted for unintentional sin (Lev 4:1–35).
  • Distinct procedures are provided for priest, congregation, ruler, and individual (Lev 4:3–35).
  • Covenant maintenance through regulated sacrifice is established at Sinai.
Scroll to Top