Format: iBooks
Synopsis: The Day of Atonement was a day of rest, penitence, and purification for Israelites of loyal character. On this day, sins and impurities that had accumulated throughout the year were removed from the tabernacle by sacrificial blood and transferred by the high priest’s confession onto the goat for Azazel, which carried them to the desert. Israel was thus rendered “clean before the Lord” (Lev 16:30), ensuring that God would continue to dwell in their midst. As it became ingrained in the veil of Jewish consciousness, the Day of Atonement underwent a process of reflection and reimagination as shown in Second Temple literature, where Azazel plays a significant eschatological role. Arriving in New Testament times, the day's imagery and typology presented irresistible motifs which its authors used to proclaim Jesus Christ's atoning death and heavenly intercession on behalf of believers. This book explores how the author of Revelation wove the Day of Atonement into the book's colorful literary tapestry, thus enhancing his portrait of Jesus Christ.