Sacrificial lamb

Ghent Altarpiece D - Lamb

Sacrificial lamb is a term that originates from ancient religious practices, where a lamb was used as a sacrifice to atone for the sins of the people or to appease a deity. The concept has evolved over time and is now often used metaphorically to describe a person or entity that is sacrificed for the greater good or to take the blame for others.

Historical Context

The practice of sacrificing a lamb can be traced back to various ancient civilizations, including the Hebrews, Greeks, and Romans. In the Hebrew Bible, the Book of Exodus describes the Passover sacrifice, where the blood of a lamb was used to mark the doors of the Israelites, sparing them from the plague that struck down the firstborn of Egypt.

Religious Significance

In Judaism, the sacrificial lamb is closely associated with the Passover festival, commemorating the liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery. The Paschal lamb was sacrificed in the Temple in Jerusalem and eaten as part of the Seder meal.

In Christianity, the concept of the sacrificial lamb is epitomized by Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the "Lamb of God" in the New Testament. Christians believe that Jesus' crucifixion was the ultimate sacrifice for the sins of humanity.

Metaphorical Use

In modern parlance, a "sacrificial lamb" refers to someone who is put in a position to take the blame or suffer the consequences for the actions of others. This term is often used in politics, business, and other areas where individuals or groups may be scapegoated to protect more powerful interests.

Examples in Popular Culture

The concept of the sacrificial lamb has been depicted in various forms of literature, film, and television. It is a common trope in drama and tragedy, where a character is sacrificed for the greater good or to bring about a resolution to the plot.

See Also

• Scapegoat
• Martyr
• Atonement
• Passover
• Lamb of God