Azazel, Not “Scapegoat”: What Leviticus 16 Really Says and Why It Matters. Words shape theology. Call the live goat in Leviticus 16 a “scapegoat,” and you’ll imagine a patsy punished for everyone else’s crimes. But the Bible’s Hebrew points another direction: Azazel (עֲזָאזֵל). This isn’t about blaming an innocent animal; it’s about God removing defilement from His people and banishing it from His camp.

The Day of Atonement: Scapegoat, Azazel, and the Blood that Covers Sin. After the shocking deaths of Nadab and Abihu, God gave Israel a way to live with His holiness without dying. Leviticus 16 introduces the Day of Atonement—Yom Kippur—a once-a-year reset for the nation’s sin. Far from an obscure ritual, it foreshadows Jesus’ once-for-all sacrifice and the final removal of sin.

Book of Leviticus: Holiness in the Details. Leviticus is the Bible book where most reading plans go to die. Let’s be honest: the animal guts, skin diseases, and mold inspections can feel overwhelming. But if you skip this book, you’re missing the blueprint of holiness and the foundation of sacrifice. Every offering, every law, every ceremonial step was a shadow cast by Christ.