The answer is: His hand

Lev 1:4 - Laying a hand on the head of the burnt offering symbolized the transfer of the offerer's sins to the sacrifice.

In Leviticus, the act of the priest laying a hand on the burnt offering’s head isn’t just about old-school rituals; it illustrates something incredibly deep about human psyche and spirituality. When the priest lays his hand on the offering, he’s basically making a profound connection between the offerer's troubles and the animal’s sacrifice. Think of it like a cosmic handoff—all those burdens get symbolically taken off one's shoulders and put onto the animal, which is then offered to God. It's like a very early version of the idea that someone or something can carry our weight when we feel overwhelmed!

Historically, this practice showcased a fascinating cultural dynamic in ancient Israel. Sacrifice was a common part of many ancient religions, but what stands out here is how personal and communal this connection became. The community would gather around these sacrifices, not only to witness but to feel the shared weight of guilt and the euphoric release brought by confession and sacrifice. Each act of imbuing the offering with their declared sins initiated a moment of collective catharsis.

And let’s not forget, burnt offerings weren’t just about sin; they also served as a way to express gratitude and devotion to God. In some sense, anyone witnessing the act of laying hands could find their struggles reflected in the flames of the offering—a tangible reminder of their Sacrifice sprinkled throughout Israel’s history. Isn’t it astonishing how such ancient practices can resonate with our human condition even today?