actually accomplished lasting forgiveness. In contrasting the old covenant with the new, the writer of the New Testament letter to the Hebrews says explicitly, “It is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins” (Heb. 10:4). Only Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice on the cross can accomplish this (Heb. 10:11–14). So the answer to the theological question of whether animal sacrifices bring forgiveness of sins is yes and no. From the perspective of ancient Israel, the answer is yes.