This was a solemn day among the Jews. It was observed on the tenth day of the month Tizri. The Hebrews called it Chippeen, meaning pardon. And they had a belief that the whole of the offences of the past year were then forgiven. What could be more striking in reference to "the blood of Christ which cleanseth from all sin?" (1 John 1:7) I refer the reader to Leviticus 16:1-34 for the relation of this day of expiation, where there is a circumstantial account of it. The Rabbi had a high veneration for this day, and observed it with great strictness and solemnity. They make a point to have all breaches made up in families, or among the people on this day. And if one is conscious that he is the aggressor, he first makes overtures for a reconciliation with the person he hath offended. And if the other is averse to forgive or withhold it, the aggressor again and again sues for pardon. But if the offended will not be reconciled, the offender takes with him one or more witnesses, to testify what he hath done, and from hence the offended person, if he any longer refuseth, becomes the guilty party. The same is observed, if the party that was injured be dead. The offender goes to his grave and acknowledges his guilt, and this is considered as obtaining his pardon. The day of Expiation was considered so solemn, and the office of the High Priest so sacred, that fearing he should commit an error when it was finished, and the day over, he changed his dress, blessed the people, and gave a great feast, blessing the Lord that he had come out unhurt from the sanctuary.
See Goat.