share torah logo

Numbers 7:28 - Sin offering atonement purpose?

Numbers 7:28 - במדבר 7:28

Hebrew Text

שְׂעִיר־עִזִּים אֶחָד לְחַטָּאת׃

English Translation

one kid of the goats for a sin offering:

Transliteration

Se'ir-izim echad lechatat.

Hebrew Leining Text

שְׂעִיר־עִזִּ֥ים אֶחָ֖ד לְחַטָּֽאת׃
שְׂעִיר־עִזִּ֥ים אֶחָ֖ד לְחַטָּֽאת׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

The Sin Offering (Chatat) of a Goat

The verse "שְׂעִיר־עִזִּים אֶחָד לְחַטָּאת" (one kid of the goats for a sin offering) refers to a specific type of korban (sacrifice) brought for certain unintentional sins. Rashi (Vayikra 4:23) explains that this offering is brought by an individual who transgresses one of the commandments unintentionally. The goat is specified here because it serves as an atonement for specific sins, particularly those related to idolatry or other severe transgressions when committed unintentionally.

Symbolism of the Goat

The choice of a goat (שְׂעִיר עִזִּים) as a sin offering carries deeper meaning. The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 5:6) connects this to the episode of Yosef and his brothers, where they slaughtered a goat to deceive Yaakov (Bereishit 37:31). The goat thus serves as a rectification (תיקון) for past sins involving deception or moral failings. Additionally, the Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 3:46) suggests that the goat was commonly associated with idolatrous practices in ancient times, and its use as a sin offering symbolizes the rejection of such practices.

Halachic Details

  • Applicability: The goat sin offering applies to specific sins, such as unintentional violations of certain prohibitions (Rambam, Hilchot Shegagot 1:1).
  • Gender and Age: The term "שְׂעִיר" specifies a male goat, as opposed to a female, which is used for different offerings (Chullin 22b).
  • Procedure: The offering requires slaughter, sprinkling of blood on the altar, and burning of specified parts (Zevachim 5:1-3).

Spiritual Lessons

The Chatat offering teaches the importance of accountability, even for unintentional sins. The Talmud (Shevuot 7b) emphasizes that atonement is necessary because negligence in mitzvot can lead to spiritual harm. The goat, as a symbol of rectification, reminds us of the need for introspection and repentance (teshuvah), aligning with the teachings of the Mesillat Yesharim on spiritual vigilance.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Yoma 66b
The verse is referenced in the discussion about the sin offerings brought on Yom Kippur, specifically regarding the goat offered as a sin offering.
📖 Menachot 45a
The verse is cited in the context of discussing the various types of offerings and their requirements, including the sin offering of a goat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does 'one kid of the goats for a sin offering' mean in Numbers 7:28?
A: This verse refers to a specific sacrifice brought in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) to atone for unintentional sins. Rashi explains that the 'kid of the goats' was a young goat offered as a chatat (sin offering) to achieve atonement when someone sinned accidentally.
Q: Why was a goat specifically chosen for the sin offering?
A: The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 5:6) teaches that goats were chosen because they represent the trait of stubbornness, reminding us that sin often comes from being stubborn in our ways. The Rambam (Guide for the Perplexed 3:46) also notes that goats were commonly available and affordable, making repentance accessible to all.
Q: How does this verse about animal sacrifices apply to us today without the Temple?
A: While we cannot bring sacrifices today, the Talmud (Berachot 17a) teaches that prayer, repentance, and charity serve in place of sacrifices. The Rambam (Hilchot Teshuvah 1:3) explains that sincere repentance achieves atonement just as sacrifices did in Temple times.