Leviticus 5:11 Meaning and Explanation
“But if he be not able to bring two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, then he that sinned shall bring for his offering the tenth part of an ephah of fine flour for a sin offering; he shall put no oil upon it, neither shall he put any frankincense thereon: for it is a sin offering.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Those too poor for birds may bring fine flour as a sin offering instead.
The Context of Leviticus 5:11
The poorest person's option for sin offering.
What Does Leviticus 5:11 Mean?
The law extends further: those who cannot even afford two birds may bring a tenth of an ephah of fine flour. This grain offering is explicitly for sin, not a normal grain offering. Notably, no oil or frankincense adorns it—the offering is stripped of embellishment, suggesting humility and penitence.
Flour represents the fruit of labor and basic provision. For the poorest, their own basic substance becomes the gift that mediates forgiveness. This threefold scaling—animal, bird, grain—ensures that every member of the community can make atonement regardless of wealth.
Leviticus 5:11 in the Original Language
סֹלֶת (solet), 'fine flour' — grain milled to the finest texture, signifying the best within reach.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 5:11
What does Leviticus 5:11 mean?
Those too poor for birds may bring fine flour as a sin offering instead.
What is the context of Leviticus 5:11?
The poorest person's option for sin offering.