Catholic Public Domain Version
Leviticus 19:22
“And the priest shall pray for him, and for his sin, before the Lord, and he shall win his favor again for him, and the sin shall be forgiven.”
Verse Explanation
A saved explanation for Leviticus 19:22.
Plain-language explanation
Leviticus 19:22 teaches that when someone sins, a priest prays for that person before the Lord. Through that act of intercession, God’s favor is sought and the sin can be forgiven.
Catholic context
Many Catholics see this as a foreshadowing of God’s mercy and of Christ’s saving intercession. In the Old Covenant, sacrifices and priestly prayer restored right relationship with God; in the New Covenant, Christ accomplishes forgiveness in a fuller way, and the Church continues to trust in God’s mercy through the sacrament of Reconciliation.
Historical background
This verse comes from Israel’s sacrificial and priestly system under the Law of Moses. Priests served as mediators in worship and offered prayers and sacrifices on behalf of the people, emphasizing that forgiveness is not merely personal guilt-handling, but restoration before God.
Reflection
God invites honesty about sin and provides a way back. The verse also highlights that forgiveness is tied to seeking God’s favor—an attitude of repentance and return, not denial.
Practical takeaway
If you’ve sinned, don’t hide from God. Bring it to Him sincerely—through prayer—and seek the help the Church provides (for many, that means Confession) so you can return with a clean heart.
Prayer
Lord God, be merciful to me. Let your favor turn toward me, and forgive my sins. Teach me to repent sincerely and to trust in your mercy. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.