The Sliding Scale and Cap; Lev 5-7

May the mumbling commence!

The sliding scale is as old as Leviticus.  As we read these Scriptures at the beginning of Leviticus, we see those who sin offer bulls, goats, and lambs.  Each of these animals would denote a measure of wealth.  To be able to afford sacrificing one of these animals, one would have to be wealthy.  So, what options did the poor and vulnerable have?  Surely they would have an option, for God strives to protect the vulnerable and calls Israel to do so as well.  And, the call remains for those who would follow Christ.

In Leviticus 5:7-13, two alternatives are given.  The first choice would be to sacrifice two doves or pigeons.  One dove would be for the sin offering, while the other dove would be for a burnt offering.  If you don’t remember, Joseph and Mary (the earthly parents of Jesus) took this option to cleanse Mary from her uncleanness associated with giving birth.  Joseph and Mary were not well off…

But, as we read on in this passage, we note an even lesser sacrifice for the poor who sin.  They were to give two quarts worth of fine flour.  Unlike the grain offerings, there was to be no oil or incense – since this would be a sin offering.  Regardless of which sacrifice one was able to afford, the result was the same.  Atonement would be made, and the sin would be forgiven.

When we sin, we sin against God first and foremost.  So, the offering goes to God and the priests.  This practice is right.  However, when sin occurs there is often more than one human party affected.  Someone else may be suffering from loss due to the sin of another.  What if that person is poor?  What provision is made?  What about maintaining a sense of community between parties at odds?

At the beginning of Leviticus chapter 6, we see the provision made for the injured human party.  The person who sins must make a full restitution to the injured party and add one-fifth of the value to it.  To restore community, there was a set cap to restitution.  Imagine that – a cap.

I don’t know how many ads I’ve seen on TV or heard on radio for the injury and malpractice lawyers.  They advertise great settlements in the five to six figure ranges.  Much of what causes the car and health insurances to skyrocket are these lawsuits.  Yes, the insurance companies are painted as the “bad” guys in the commercials.  People do need proper compensation for their medical bills, car repairs, and time loss at work – but how can anyone put a price tag on suffering?  These lawyers may get more money for their clients (and themselves), but they play a role in high insurance costs. 

Wouldn’t it be great to see a cap in these situations?  How is community restored in these situations?  I see these lawsuits as an easy way some people try to make a few thousand bucks.  All of us end up paying for it.  Yes, many of the commands, laws, and precepts of the Lord boil down to placing a cap on the vengeance, retaliation, and greed of people.  

It seems we have not changed much over the years.  People still will demand astronomical reparations.  Countries still retaliate with an overly strong arm.  You and I are no different and neither is our country.  Getting even has to stop before community can be achieved.  Let’s leave room for the wrath of God – He is the only righteous judge anyways.

Enough mumbling for now…

Peace Out