Overview
The trespass offering (also called guilt offering) addressed specific transgressions requiring restitution, particularly sins of deception, negligence, or violation of holy things. The offerer confessed their sin, made full restitution plus a penalty, and presented a ram or lamb to the priest for atonement before the Lord (Leviticus 5:5-6). This offering emphasized both accountability and restoration of relationships.
Key Scriptures
"But he shall make restitution for the harm that he has done to the holy thing and shall add one-fifth to it and give it to the priest" (Leviticus 5:16, ESV).
"And the priest shall make atonement for him before the Lord, and he shall be forgiven for any of the things that he may have done and incurred guilt thereby" (Leviticus 5:18, ESV).
"But if anyone sins and does what is forbidden in any of the Lord's commands, even though they do not know it, they are guilty and will be held responsible" (Leviticus 5:17, NIV).
Application
The trespass offering reminds believers that genuine repentance includes making restitution where possible and acknowledging accountability before God and others.