The Goat in the Bible
Sin-bearing and judgment.
The goat in the Bible represents sin-bearing through the scapegoat of the Day of Atonement and judgment in Christ's separation of the sheep from the goats.
Key KJV Verses
"And the goat shall bear upon him all their iniquities unto a land not inhabited..."
"And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left."
"Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place..."
The scapegoat
On the Day of Atonement two goats were chosen — one slain, one driven into the wilderness bearing the sins of the people away into a land not inhabited. Together they prefigure Christ's full atonement.
Sheep and goats
In Matthew 25 the King separates the nations as a shepherd divides sheep from goats — a sober picture of final judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the scapegoat symbolize?
Sin removed completely from God's people — a picture of Christ bearing our iniquities away.
Why are goats placed on the left in judgment?
They symbolize those who never received the King and served not the least of His brethren.
Related Bible Symbols
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats
Matthew 25:40 • Compassion & Love
Biblical Meaning of Sheep in a Dream (KJV)
God's people under the care of the Shepherd.
Parable of the Sheep and the Goats Quiz
The Son of man on His throne separating the nations (Matthew 25).
The Sheep and Goats Parable Quiz
The final judgment — separating the nations based on their treatment of Christ's
What Is the Day of Atonement?
Theology & Doctrine
What Is the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur)?
Theology & Doctrine