Forgiveness is one of the attributes ascribed to YHWH: “to the Lord our God belong mercies and forgiveness” (Daniel 9:9; comp. Exodus 34:6-7; Numbers 14:18 et seq.; Psalms 86:5; Jonah 4:2). The condition essential to God’s forgiveness of iniquity is, as the contexts of the passages indicated show, repentance on the part of the sinner for the offense committed. A further essential condition is the intention to avoid repetition of the offense. The fulfilment of these conditions restores the sinner to his right relation toward YHWH. “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon” (Isaiah 55:7; comp. Amos 5:14; Jeremiah 3:14 et seq.; Ezekiel 18:21 et seq., 33:11-21; Hosea 14:1-4); “For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee” (Psalms 86:5; comp. 78:38).
Under the sacrificial system as found in Leviticus repentance and atonement are represented by the animal sacrifice which a priest offers for the sinner But the forgiveness to be attained through the sacrifice is only for sins committed unintentionally, and for ignorance that has caused ritual defilement. No sacrifice could atone for wilful offenses. “But he that sins knowingly . . . blasphemes YHWH; he shall be cut off from among his people” (Numbers 15:30, Hebr.). The main passage referring to sin-offerings is found in Lev. iv.—v. 13 (comp. Numbers 15:22 et seq.). In the Prophets and Psalms repentance is wholly based upon change of heart. Forgiveness is a free act of God’s mercy and grace (Micah 7:18, 19; Psalms 103:3; comp. Jeremiah 31:34; Ezekiel 36:25 et seq.; Ecclus. [Sirach] 17:20 et seq., 18:11).
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Author: Jewish Encyclopedia
Keywords: Forgiveness
Source: Isidore Singer (editor), The Jewish Encyclopedia (12 Volumes), (1906).
Page indexed by: inWORD Bible Software.