The answer is: Atonement

Lev 16

The only day when the high priest had the opportunity to step into the Holy of Holies was Yom Kippur, or the Day of Atonement. This was a monumental occasion in the ancient Israelite calendar, falling every year on the tenth day of Tishrei. On this day, the high priest conducted intricate rituals designed to atone for the sins of the people, sprinkling the blood of a sacrificial goat to purify both the altar and the nation—a symbolic act of wiping the slate clean.

It's fascinating to note that the term "scapegoat," actually derives from the rite described in Leviticus 16. One goat was sacrificed for sin, while another was symbolically burdened with the sins of the people and sent away into the wilderness. This practice was deeply rooted in the understanding of collective responsibility and the belief that repentance brings restoration.

Interestingly, the Holy of Holies itself, called the "Debir," was not only a sacred area but also contained the Ark of the Covenant. The Ark was seen as a physical manifestation of God’s presence among His people and housed the tablets of the Law given to Moses.

This concept of atonement resonates beyond just rituals; it implies a transformative journey from guilt to redemption that is woven throughout scripture. Humans universally seek reconciliation and renewal—echoes of this deep desire can be seen in many cultural narratives, underscoring the timeless need for connection and forgiveness.