In the ancient Israelite tradition, the Day of Atonement was a significant event where the high priest performed rituals to atone for the sins of the people. Two goats were central to this ceremony. Lots were cast to determine the fate of each goat. One goat was designated for the Lord and was sacrificed as a sin offering, symbolizing the purification and atonement for the people's sins. The other goat, known as the scapegoat, was sent into the wilderness. This act symbolized the removal and carrying away of the people's sins, offering a vivid picture of God's forgiveness and the cleansing of the community.
This ritual underscores the themes of repentance and divine forgiveness. It reflects the belief in a God who desires to purify and renew His people, offering them a chance to start anew. The concept of the scapegoat also points to the idea of substitutionary atonement, where one bears the burden of another's sins. This practice foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice in Christian theology, where Jesus is seen as the one who bears the sins of humanity, offering redemption and reconciliation with God.
