Leviticus continues in its description of the sacrificial system. Chapter 4 speaks of sin offerings that must be offered up for all members of the community. Examples are given for infractions by priests, the community overall and individuals. Special attention is given to insure that the sanctuary itself maintains its purity.
Note the transference that takes place at a sacrifice. The one offering the sacrifice places their hands on the animal, as if to say, this is me and my sin. A sacrifice is not offered up lightly, the reality is that we have pained ourselves and our relationship with God.
Chapter 5 speaks of trespasses, those against God and those against others in the community. As we stated previously, the system has been set up to maintain the balance between humanity and God but the system is also in place to maintain harmony throughout the community as well.
Chapter 5 also opens with a reminder to remain clean and pure and one must take steps to remedy situations where an individual may become unclean.
Note that one is held responsible not just for sins we are aware of, but also sins that we might not even be aware of.
Psalms 20 - 21
Psalm 20 is considered a prayer for victory that comes from royalty. Before the king enters into battle, he offers forward this prayer as well as appropriate sacrifice to God. The understanding being that victory is the Lord's to offer or withhold.
Psalm 21 might be seen as the prayer being answered. The king thanks God for God's victory. The relationship is set, the king trusts in God and God leads the king to victory. The people rejoice.
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