The Trespass/Guilt Offering: Restoring What Was Broken
Biblical Basis and Distinction
Scripture outlines the trespass offering (also called guilt offering) in:
- Leviticus 5:14-19
- Leviticus 7:1-7
- Leviticus 14:12-18
This offering differs from the sin offering, addressing specific violations against God’s holy things or others’ rights.
When Was It Required?
- Regarding God’s Holy Things:
- Unintentional misuse of sanctified items (sanctuary objects, priestly portions)
- Possible scenarios:
- Forgetting or improperly fulfilling a vow
- Accidentally consuming food reserved for priests
- Mistakenly using a firstborn animal
- Regarding Human Relationships:
- Violating another person’s rights (theft, deception, property damage)
- Specific cases in:
- Leviticus 19:20-22 (sexual misconduct)
- Numbers 6:9-12 (Nazarite vow violation)
The Required Sacrifice
- Primary Offering:
- Unblemished ram or male lamb
- Alternative: Equivalent value in silver
- Additional Requirements:
- 20% restitution to priests (for holy things violations)
- Full damages plus 20% (for human rights violations)
The Ritual Process
- Animal slaughtered at tabernacle entrance
- Blood splashed on altar sides
- Blood applied to offerer’s:
- Right earlobe
- Right thumb
- Right big toe
- Oil applied to same body parts
- Offerer’s head anointed with oil
- Fat and organs burned on altar
- Remaining meat eaten by priests in sanctuary
Special Considerations
- For uncertain violations (“just in case” offerings):
- Sacrifice still required
- No restitution payment
- Practical purpose:
- Supported priestly livelihood
- Maintained community harmony
