Definition: And the priest shall dip his finger [in some] of the blood, and sprinkle [it] seven times before the LORD, [even] before the vail.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Leviticus 4:17. It’s a really important and somewhat dramatic part of Jewish tradition about cleansing someone who has committed a serious sin – typically murder. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a ritual to completely wash away the guilt and remorse of someone who has killed another person. It's a powerful act of atonement and seeking forgiveness from God. Let's unpack it word by word: “And the priest shall dip his finger [in some] of the blood…” – This is the key action. The priest is dipping his finger into a drop of blood. It’s not just a small amount; it’s a significant amount. “…and sprinkle [it] seven times before the LORD…” – This tells us that the priest must sprinkle this blood seven times. “Sprinkle” means to gently dab or apply. “[even] before the vail.” – This is where it gets really significant. “The vail” refers to a special cloth or covering used in Temple worship. The priest must sprinkle before this cloth. What’s happening? Basically, this ritual aims to make the blood of the deceased person completely cleansed and forgiven by God. It's a symbolic act that signifies a complete removal of the sin. Why was this done? This practice was established as a way for people to atone for murder. It’s believed to be a demonstration of repentance and a sincere attempt to restore the sanctity of the blood and the victim's memory. It emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the gravity of the crime and seeking forgiveness from God. Important Note: This is a complex and emotionally charged passage, and it’s important to understand its context within Jewish law and tradition. It was part of a larger system designed to ensure justice and spiritual cleansing. --- Resources if you want to learn more: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/verses/Leviticus/4:17](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/verses/Leviticus/4/17) Jewish Answers: [https://jewishanswers.org/leviticus-4-17/](https://jewishanswers.org/leviticus-4-17/) Do you want me to explain any part of this in more detail, or would you like to know about the historical context of this ritual?