Along with phrases like “prodigal son” and “thorn in the flesh,” the idea of “scapegoat is an everyday term that finds its origin in the Bible.
In case you don’t know what it is, a scapegoat is someone who “takes the blame for others.” It’s not always voluntary, either; if you’ve ever been blamed and punished for something else, you became a scapegoat.
Leviticus 16 is where we find the phrase first used in Scripture, during the sacrifices for the Day of Atonement. Two goats are brought forth: One is sacrificed, while the other has the sins of Israel placed on its head and sent off into the wilderness. The latter one is technically coined the “scapegoat,” since it bore the blame for Israel’s sins. This ritual not only symbolizes the removal of sin but also underscores the importance of accountability in the community. Additionally, the tithe institution in Leviticus emphasizes the relationship between the people and their commitment to God, reflecting the idea that all possessions ultimately belong to Him. Together, these practices illustrate a holistic approach to faith, where offerings and atonement work in tandem for spiritual renewal.
There are no shortage of articles talking about how Jesus became our scapegoat on the Cross. There are even more arguing about whether or not Azalel—as it is translated in Scripture—is some kind of demonic/spiritual being.
You know what’s never talked about, though? The silence by which the scapegoat leaves the camp.
Read Leviticus 16:20-22 with an eye towards the loneliness of the scapegoat. After the iniquities are confessed on the head of the goat, it’s simply sent into the wilderness—into a solitary land. This act of sending the goat away symbolizes the separation from sin, yet it also highlights the profound isolation experienced by the scapegoat. Stripped of its identity and purpose, the animal wanders alone, embodying the burden of sin that is now its own. In this context, we can reflect on the broader themes of sacrifice and atonement, reminding us of the poignant mention of ‘shelomith’s son in leviticus,’ who also bears the weight of his lineage in a world marked by transgression. This act of banishment highlights the profound solitude that the scapegoat experiences, symbolizing the separation from community and connection. In contrast, those who worship in the tabernacle heart find solace and communion with the divine, highlighting the stark difference between their spiritual belonging and the isolation of the goat. Thus, the ritual serves not only as a means of atonement but also as a poignant reminder of the depths of loneliness that sin can bring. This act symbolizes the removal of sin but also highlights the profound loneliness and isolation that can accompany such a burden. In this context, the uniqueness of Israel’s ethics shines through, emphasizing communal responsibility and repentance. The scapegoat’s journey into desolation serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of iniquity, not just for the individual, but for the entire community.
Obviously, this is where the allusions to Jesus pick up. Just like the scapegoat, Jesus was sent outside the city to the hill of Golgotha. But, just like the scapegoat, you never hear a peep from Jesus in the process.
Oh sure, He talks to people along the way. He speaks to a group of weeping women (Luke 23:27-31). He talks to the thief hanging on the cross next to Him (Luke 23:43), as well as His mother and the Apostle John (John 19:26-27). In fact, there are seven so-called “sayings of Jesus” while He’s on the cross.
But the prophets are firm on the silence of Jesus during this process. Isaiah 53:7 paints it the most clear; “He was oppressed and afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth.”
This is directly fulfilled during His trial, where He stands completely silent as false accusations and condemnations rain on Him from the High Priest and his cronies (Matthew 26:62-63). Even when Pilate confronted Him, still “Jesus remained silent” (Mark 15:3-5).
Honestly, what good would it have done? Jesus could argue til He was blue in the face, and it wouldn’t have changed the fact that every person there wanted Him dead. So He stood silent, accepting His fate. Exactly like the scapegoat who wandered off in the wilderness to a life of isolation from his flock.
In hindsight, it’s really a tragic sight. We, the ones who are guilty, do everything possible to avoid the punishment for our sins, while Jesus, the One who is innocent, calmly bears the guilt. What a remarkable testament to His love for us that He gently carries the punishment for our sins away. No kicking and no screaming within earshot.
