Azazel
This study reviews what Scripture reveals about Azazel and how Adventist thought on the subject has progressed since the nineteenth century.
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Full Study
Readers who want the full article can download the complete, unedited version of the study.
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Introduction
The introduction explains why Azazel’s identity matters and lays out the purpose of the research.
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The Bible Study
A close reading of Scripture examines key passages that shape the understanding of Azazel and the Day of Atonement.
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Millerite Perspectives
How the Millerite movement integrated Azazel into its prophetic message and the ultimate end of sin.
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Historic Adventism
Early Adventist leaders moved teachings on Azazel forward and included it in the church’s growing theological framework.
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Ellen White
Ellen White referred to Azazel on several occasions, often through the Great Controversy narrative.
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Modern Adventism
Modern Adventist scholars and publications continue to define, defend, and explore Azazel symbology.
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Conclusion
The final section draws together the biblical and historical evidence and explains the study’s overall findings.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Azazel is a mysterious figure connected with the live goat in Leviticus 16. While Christians have interpreted Azazel in many ways, Adventists believe he represents Satan.
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No. Satan has no part in saving anyone for any reason. Christ alone provides forgiveness and salvation. Only Christ’s death atones for our sin.
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On the Day of Atonement in Leviticus 16, the high priest placed Israel’s sins on Azazel. An Israelite man then led Azazel to the wilderness and released him. This act symbolically removed all of Israel’s forgiven sins from the people and the camp.
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Azazel helps us understand the biblical story of what happens to sin and Satan. Christ forgives sin and save us. Satan bears the consequences of instigating sin and causing us to sin. After Christ’s coming, Satan, like Azazel, is permanently removed from God’s people and suffers for the sin he caused.
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No, not by itself. This teaching does not represent a separate fundamental belief, but is tied into number 24, Christ’s Ministry in the Heavenly Sanctuary.
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No. This idea existed for centuries before Adventism, though the interpretations varied widely. Adventism’s distinct role was to tie Azazel into Revelation 20, and Satan’s end-time removal and punishment.
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Owen Crosier laid the foundation in 1846, and early Adventists such as James White, Uriah Smith, and John Andrews continued to study and develop the teaching. In recent decades, Adventists have continued searching for fresh ways to understand Azazel’s role in Leviticus.
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The basic conclusion has not changed: Azazel represents not Christ, but Satan. What has changed is how Adventists defend this belief. Early writers tended to rely on centuries of scholarly authorities; modern Adventists rely more on the biblical text and the meaning of the Day of Atonement.