Definition: And he shall wash his flesh with water in the holy place, and put on his garments, and come forth, and offer his burnt offering, and the burnt offering of the people, and make an atonement for himself, and for the people.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 16:24. It's a really important passage about how the Israelites prepared to offer sacrifices to God. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: “When the High Priest went into the Holy of Holies (a very holy space) within the Temple, he had to wash himself with water and put on special garments. Then, he would present a burnt offering – a sacrifice – that was for the people and atoned for himself and the entire nation.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “He shall wash his flesh with water…” : This is a symbolic act. It means he was symbolically cleansing himself of any sins or impurity. It's like taking off a layer to show purity. “…in the holy place…” : The Holy of Holies is a very special, protected space within the Temple where God resided. It’s a place meant for worship and communion with God. “…and put on his garments…” : He wore specific robes that signified his status as a priest. “Come forth, and offer his burnt offering…” : This is the core of the verse. The High Priest had to enter this sacred space and present a burnt offering – a sacrifice made specifically for God’s benefit. “…and the burnt offering of the people…” : This was a sacrifice meant to make up for sins committed by all the Israelites. It was a way to show repentance and restoration. “and make an atonement for himself, and for the people.” : This is the most important part. The High Priest’s offering atoned – meaning it made things right – for his own sinfulness and for the sins of everyone in Israel. It was a way to bring peace and forgiveness back to God. Why is this important? This ritual was designed to remind the Israelites that they needed to be completely cleansed and reconciled with God, both individually and as a nation. It was a crucial part of their relationship with the divine. In short, it's a powerful image of how the Israelites were striving to keep their relationship with God strong by offering sacrifices – a constant reminder of their need for forgiveness and renewal. --- Would you like me to: Explain another part of Leviticus 16? Give you an analogy to help understand it better?