The Lamb in the Bible
Sacrifice, innocence, and Christ Himself.
The lamb in the Bible is the central symbol of sacrifice and innocence — culminating in Jesus, 'the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.'
Key KJV Verses
"Your lamb shall be without blemish, a male of the first year..."
"Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world."
"...stood a Lamb as it had been slain..."
The Passover lamb
A lamb without blemish was slain and its blood applied to Israel's doorposts so the destroyer would pass over (Exodus 12). Every Passover after was a rehearsal of this deliverance.
The Lamb of God
John the Baptist points to Jesus and says, 'Behold the Lamb of God' (John 1:29). Christ is the once-for-all Passover, the suffering servant 'as a lamb to the slaughter' (Isaiah 53:7), and the reigning Lamb on the throne (Revelation 5).
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the lamb symbolize in the Bible?
Sacrifice, innocence, and ultimately Christ Himself — the Lamb of God slain for the sin of the world.
Why is Jesus called the Lamb of God?
Because His death fulfills every Old Testament sacrifice, especially the Passover lamb, taking away sin once for all.
Related Bible Symbols
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
Lamb (שֶׂה (Seh) / ἀμνός (Amnos))
A sacrificial animal symbolizing Christ's innocent, atoning death
Lamb (Amnos) (ἀμνός (amnos))
The sacrificial animal — the innocent substitute who bears the sin of the world.
Strong's G286 — Lamb (Amnos)
ἀμνός (amnos) • The sacrificial animal — the innocent substitute who bears the sin of the world.
The Passover — Firstborn Spared
The blood of a spotless lamb on the doorposts spared every Israelite firstborn t
Which Bible Animal Are You?
Free KJV quiz — lion, lamb, eagle or dove? Discover which Bible animal matches y
Will There Be Animals in Heaven?
Heaven & Afterlife