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    In Context

    What Is Expiation in the Bible — In Biblical Context

    Expiation is the removal or covering of sin — the cleansing aspect of Christ's atoning work.

    Quick Answer

    Expiation is the removal or covering of sin — the cleansing aspect of Christ's atoning work.

    "As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us." — Psalm 103:12 (KJV)

    The Biblical Context

    Expiation and propitiation are two complementary sides of the atonement. Propitiation focuses on God — the satisfying of His holy wrath. Expiation focuses on sin itself — its removal, covering, and cleansing. On the Day of Atonement, two goats were used: one was sacrificed for sin, and the other (the scapegoat) was sent away into the wilderness, picturing the removal of sin from the people (Leviticus 16). Christ fulfilled both. His sacrifice not only appeased God's wrath but also bore away the guilt and defilement of His people, casting their sins as far as the east is from the west. Believers can be assured that their sins are not merely forgiven — they are gone.

    Where It Sits in Scripture

    The core passage for this question, Psalm 103:12, sits inside Psalms 103. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.

    "As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us."
    — Psalm 103:12 (KJV)

    Supporting Passages

    Isaiah 53:6
    "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all."
    Hebrews 9:26
    "But now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself."

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    Meaning

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