Azazel

Azazel is a mysterious figure mentioned in connection with the scapegoat ritual on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:8, 10, 26). On this day, two goats were selected, one for the Lord and the other for Azazel. The high priest would cast lots to determine which goat would be sacrificed to the Lord and which would be sent into the wilderness "to Azazel" (Leviticus 16:8, 10).

The goat designated for Azazel, often called the scapegoat, would have the sins of the Israelites confessed over it by the high priest. It would then be sent into the wilderness, symbolically carrying away the sins of the people (Leviticus 16:21-22). The person who led the goat into the wilderness was required to wash his clothes and bathe before returning to the camp (Leviticus 16:26).

The exact identity of Azazel is uncertain. Some scholars suggest that Azazel may refer to a demon or fallen angel, while others propose that it could be a geographical location or a term meaning "complete removal." The scapegoat ritual involving Azazel emphasizes the complete removal and separation of sin from the people on the Day of Atonement.