What does the sacrifice atone for
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Question
Hello, In Parashat Acharei Mot, chapter 16, verse 16, Rashi states that the sin offering of the people of Israel atones for those who entered the Temple or ate sacred foods in a state of impurity unknowingly. However, if they became aware, it does not atone, and they need to bring a variable offering. But regarding the word 'mifsha'ehem', Rashi states that it atones if they entered the Temple or ate sacred foods intentionally in impurity. My question: If they ate intentionally, does that mean they knew, and we saw earlier that if they knew, it does not atone?
Answer
Hello,
When a person enters the Temple in a state of impurity unknowingly and later becomes aware, they are required to bring a sacrifice. Once they bring the sacrifice, they are atoned, and do not need the High Priest's sacrifice for atonement.
The High Priest must bring a sacrifice for those who sinned unknowingly and have not yet realized their sin, and therefore have not brought a sacrifice for themselves. Or for those who sinned intentionally, for whom it is not stated to bring a sacrifice.
Source
Leviticus 16:16 and Rashi there.