Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the significance of the two goats in Leviticus 16:5?
A: In Leviticus 16:5, the two goats are part of the Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) service. According to Rashi and the Talmud (Yoma 62a), one goat is offered as a sacrifice to Hashem (the sin offering), while the other is sent away into the wilderness (the scapegoat, or 'Azazel'). This symbolizes atonement for the sins of the Jewish people—one goat represents repentance and closeness to Hashem, while the other represents the removal of sins.
Q: Why does the verse mention a ram for a burnt offering in addition to the goats?
A: The ram (אַיִל) mentioned in Leviticus 16:5 is brought as an עֹלָה (burnt offering), which is completely consumed on the altar. According to Rambam (Hilchot Maaseh Hakorbanot), the burnt offering represents total devotion to Hashem. On Yom Kippur, the Kohen Gadol (High Priest) offers it to atone for himself and the people, reinforcing the theme of purification and dedication to divine service.
Q: How does Leviticus 16:5 relate to Yom Kippur today?
A: Although we no longer bring animal sacrifices after the destruction of the Beit Hamikdash (Temple), Leviticus 16:5 teaches us the importance of repentance and atonement on Yom Kippur. The Talmud (Yoma 85b) explains that prayer, fasting, and teshuvah (repentance) now replace the offerings. The two goats remind us to both confess our sins (like the sacrificed goat) and strive to remove wrongdoing from our lives (like the scapegoat).
Q: Why were goats specifically chosen for the sin offering?
A: The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 21:9) explains that goats were chosen because they symbolize the trait of stubbornness (עַזּוּת), reminding us that sin often comes from being stubborn in our ways. By offering goats, we acknowledge our mistakes and commit to changing our behavior. Additionally, Rashi notes that goats were commonly used for sin offerings due to their availability and symbolic connection to atonement.
Source and Context
The verse (Vayikra 16:5) appears in the context of the Yom Kippur service, detailing the offerings brought by the Kohen Gadol (High Priest) as part of the atonement process for the nation of Israel. The two goats and the ram are central to the avodah (service) of Yom Kippur.
Explanation of the Offerings
Rashi (Vayikra 16:5) explains that the two goats must be identical in appearance, height, and value, as they are chosen by lot—one "for Hashem" and the other "for Azazel." This emphasizes the principle of fairness and Divine selection in the atonement process. The Rambam (Hilchos Avodas Yom HaKippurim 5:1) elaborates that the goats must be purchased from communal funds, symbolizing collective responsibility for repentance.
Symbolism and Deeper Meaning
The Talmud (Yoma 62a) discusses why goats are specifically chosen for the sin offering, noting that the word "שְׂעִירֵי" (goats) alludes to the "שְׂעִיר" (hairy one), a reference to Eisav, representing the yetzer hara (evil inclination). By offering goats, we confront and sublimate our base instincts through Divine service.
The Sforno (Vayikra 16:5) adds that the two goats parallel the dual nature of human sin—both intentional and unintentional—requiring a multifaceted approach to teshuvah (repentance). The ram, meanwhile, signifies the elevation of the individual and the nation toward higher spiritual commitment.
Practical Halachic Insights
According to the Mishneh Torah (Rambam, Hilchos Maaseh HaKorbanos 1:14), the goats must be unblemished, as physical perfection reflects the need for spiritual integrity in repentance. The Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 610) further rules that the goats must be selected before Yom Kippur, teaching that preparation is essential for meaningful atonement.