The answer is: Sin

Lev 4:6 - The sprinkling of blood symbolized purification and atonement.

In Leviticus 4:6, we find that the sin offering involves sprinkling the blood seven times before the Lord. Now, let's unpack that number a little bit. Seven is often considered a symbol of completeness and divine perfection throughout the Bible. For example, God rested on the seventh day after creating the world, signaling the completion of His work (Genesis 2:2-3). When it comes to the sin offering, the act of sprinkling blood seven times reflects the thoroughness with which atonement is sought. It’s a vivid reminder that no sin is too small to warrant attention—they all require a keen sense of responsibility.

Interestingly, the shedding of blood as a means of purification is echoed throughout the Old Testament and carried into the New Testament narrative as well. While the concept might seem foreign today, think of it as a deep, symbolic way of acknowledging human fallibility. The importance of this ritual was not about primitive beliefs in blood magic, but rather a heartfelt quest for restoration and moral renewal.

All the while, we see throughout scripture an emphasis on the heart being a crucial part of this picture. As highlighted later in prophets like Micah and Isaiah, God is less interested in sacrifices than in the condition of the heart. This pivotal code points to an intrinsic understanding that good deeds and intentions matter, making these ancient practices feel compellingly relevant today.