Forgiveness

“The nature of סלח [selach], however, is slightly different from the Western conception of forgiveness. Numbers 14 shows that סלח involves not necessarily the eradication of the penalty by the offended party (Yahweh) but rather 'the substitution of a mitigated penalty (non-entry into the land) for a much more severe penalty (immediate destruction by plague).' (Sklar 2005:84-85) This suggests that the sacrificial animal functioned in a similar way to modern-day fines. Instead of the harsher penalty of incarceration, a mitigated financial penalty is demanded.”—A Severe Mercy, page 71

<idle musing>
I'm not quite sure what to do with this. Any ideas? Maybe it will become clearer as I read further in the book.
</idle musing>