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Leviticus 5:19 - Guilt offering for divine trespass

Leviticus 5:19 - ויקרא 5:19

Hebrew Text

אָשָׁם הוּא אָשֹׁם אָשַׁם לַיהוָה׃

English Translation

It is a guilt offering: he has certainly trespassed against the Lord.

Transliteration

Asham hu ashom asham la'Adonai.

Hebrew Leining Text

אָשָׁ֖ם ה֑וּא אָשֹׁ֥ם אָשַׁ֖ם לַיהֹוָֽה׃ <span class="mam-spi-pe">{פ}</span><br>
אָשָׁ֖ם ה֑וּא אָשֹׁ֥ם אָשַׁ֖ם לַיהֹוָֽה׃ {פ}

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Meaning of the Verse

The verse "אָשָׁם הוּא אָשֹׁם אָשַׁם לַיהוָה" (Vayikra 5:19) refers to the korban asham (guilt offering) brought by one who has committed certain transgressions, particularly those involving misappropriation of sacred property or false oaths. The repetition of the root "אשם" emphasizes the certainty of the transgression and the obligation to atone.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi explains that the phrase "אָשָׁם הוּא" ("It is a guilt offering") establishes that this sacrifice is obligatory and not optional. The double language "אָשֹׁם אָשַׁם" ("he has certainly trespassed") serves to underscore that the individual is unquestionably guilty and must bring the offering to achieve atonement before Hashem.

Rambam's Perspective

In Hilchot Teshuva (1:1), the Rambam teaches that the korban asham is part of the repentance process for sins between man and Hashem. The offering alone is insufficient without sincere teshuva (repentance), which includes:

  • Charatah (regret for the sin)
  • Vidui (verbal confession)
  • Kabbalah al ha'asid (resolution not to repeat the sin)

Talmudic and Midrashic Insights

The Talmud (Keritot 25b) discusses the specific cases requiring an asham, such as:

  • Misusing sanctified property (me'ilah)
  • Uncertainty about whether one violated a prohibition (asham talui)

The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 5:5) notes that the repetition of "אשם" alludes to the seriousness of the sin, as it represents a breach of trust with Hashem.

Halachic Implications

According to Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 334), the laws of asham teach that restitution and atonement are required even for unintentional misuse of sacred items. This reflects the principle that holiness demands heightened accountability.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Keritot 25a
The verse is discussed in the context of the laws regarding guilt offerings (asham) and the specific circumstances under which they are required.
📖 Zevachim 44b
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the proper procedures for sacrifices, particularly focusing on the guilt offering and its significance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a guilt offering (Asham) in Leviticus 5:19?
A: A guilt offering (Asham) is a type of sacrifice brought in the Temple for certain sins, such as unintentionally misusing sacred property or failing to fulfill an oath. The verse emphasizes that the person has trespassed against Hashem and must atone through this offering. Rashi explains that this offering is required even if the sin was done unintentionally, showing the seriousness of the transgression.
Q: Why does the verse say 'he has certainly trespassed against the Lord'?
A: The repetition of the word 'Asham' (guilt) emphasizes the certainty of the wrongdoing. According to traditional Jewish interpretation, this teaches that even unintentional sins require atonement because they still create a spiritual blemish. The Rambam (Hilchot Teshuva) explains that recognizing one's mistakes and taking responsibility is a key step in repentance.
Q: How does the concept of a guilt offering apply today without the Temple?
A: Since we cannot bring sacrifices today, the Talmud (Berachot 17a) teaches that prayer, charity, and sincere repentance take the place of offerings. The principle remains the same: acknowledging wrongdoing and taking steps to correct it. The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah) also emphasizes that sincere remorse and commitment to change are what Hashem truly desires.
Q: What can we learn from Leviticus 5:19 about responsibility?
A: This verse teaches that we must take responsibility for our actions, even unintentional mistakes. The Talmud (Bava Kama) discusses how negligence can lead to spiritual harm, and the Asham offering reinforces the idea that we must rectify our errors. Today, this means being mindful of our actions and making amends when we wrong others or Hashem.