Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does the sin offering (חַטָּאת) in Numbers 29:5 represent?
A: The sin offering (חַטָּאת) in this verse refers to a goat brought as a sacrifice to atone for unintentional sins. According to Rashi and the Talmud (Zevachim 7a), this offering helps achieve kaparah (atonement) when someone violates a commandment without intent. The Torah emphasizes the importance of repentance and correction even for mistakes.
Q: Why is a goat specifically chosen for the sin offering in this verse?
A: The goat (שְׂעִיר־עִזִּים) is often used for sin offerings, as seen in Leviticus 16 (the Yom Kippur service). The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 5:6) explains that goats symbolize the yetzer hara (evil inclination), and offering one represents overcoming negative tendencies. Rambam (Hilchot Teshuva 1:2) teaches that sincere repentance, along with the offering, brings atonement.
Q: How does this verse apply today without the Temple?
A: Since we lack the Beit Hamikdash (Temple), we cannot bring physical offerings. However, the Talmud (Berachot 17a) teaches that prayer, charity, and repentance substitute for sacrifices. Rambam (Hilchot Tefillah 1:1) emphasizes that heartfelt prayer serves the same spiritual function as korbanot (offerings) in seeking atonement.
Q: What does 'to make atonement for you' (לְכַפֵּר עֲלֵיכֶם) mean in this verse?
A: The phrase 'לְכַפֵּר עֲלֵיכֶם' means that the sin offering facilitates spiritual cleansing. Rashi explains that kaparah (atonement) comes through sincere repentance and the korban (offering). The Talmud (Yoma 85b) teaches that true atonement requires three steps: recognizing the sin, regretting it, and committing not to repeat it.
Q: Why is this verse part of the Musaf offerings for Rosh Chodesh (New Moon)?
A: Numbers 28-29 details special Musaf offerings for holidays, including Rosh Chodesh. The sin offering here reminds us of human imperfection—even on joyous occasions, we must seek spiritual refinement. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 21:7) connects Rosh Chodesh renewal with personal renewal through repentance.
Explanation of the Verse
The verse "וּשְׂעִיר־עִזִּים אֶחָד חַטָּאת לְכַפֵּר עֲלֵיכֶם" (and one kid of the goats for a sin offering, to make atonement for you) appears in the context of the sacrificial service, specifically regarding the korban chatat (sin offering). This offering serves as a means of atonement for unintentional sins, as elaborated in the Torah and rabbinic literature.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi (Bamidbar 28:15) explains that the se'ir izim (goat kid) mentioned here is brought as a sin offering to atone for the impurity of the Temple or the holy vessels. He connects this to the broader framework of communal atonement, emphasizing that even inadvertent transgressions require rectification through sacrificial offerings.
Rambam's Perspective
In Hilchot Ma'aseh HaKorbanot (Laws of Sacrificial Offerings), the Rambam (Maimonides) discusses the role of the chatat offering as a means of spiritual purification. He notes that the goat kid serves as a symbolic act of repentance, aligning the sinner's heart with divine will. The Rambam emphasizes that true atonement also requires sincere teshuvah (repentance).
Midrashic Insights
The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 5:6) draws a parallel between the goat kid and the story of Yosef and his brothers, who dipped his coat in goat's blood (Bereishit 37:31). This teaches that atonement involves confronting past wrongs and rectifying them through sincere actions.
Key Teachings from the Talmud
Practical Halachic Implications
In the absence of the Beit HaMikdash (Temple), the rabbis teach that prayer, Torah study, and acts of kindness serve as substitutes for sacrifices (Taanit 27b). However, the verse reminds us of the importance of seeking atonement and maintaining spiritual purity in all generations.