Here's a breakdown:
The Ritual:
* Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur): This was a special day for atonement for the sins of the Israelites.
* Two Goats: Two goats were chosen. One was sacrificed to God as an offering. The other, the "scapegoat," was designated to carry the sins of the people.
* Transferring Sins: The high priest would confess the sins of the people over the scapegoat.
* Release into the Wilderness: The scapegoat was then led out into the wilderness, symbolizing the removal of the sins from the community.
How it Became a Figurative Term:
Over time, the concept of the scapegoat evolved into a figurative term. It refers to:
* An individual or group blamed for problems or wrongdoing, even if they are not actually responsible.
* Someone who is unjustly punished or held accountable for the actions of others.
The term "scapegoat" is often used to describe:
* Political scapegoating: Blaming specific individuals or groups for political failures or economic hardship.
* Social scapegoating: Targeting marginalized groups for social problems, such as prejudice against immigrants or racial minorities.
The Significance:
The idea of the scapegoat highlights the human tendency to find someone to blame for our own failings. It serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us to be critical of our own biases and to avoid unfairly targeting others.