דברי הימים ב, פרק כ״ט, פסוק כ״ג

The process of seeking forgiveness through a sin offering is both deeply personal and physical. It requires the individual bringing the animal to press their hands upon it and openly confess their wrongdoings before God [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. However, a unique challenge arises when an offering is made on behalf of the entire nation. Since the whole public cannot physically lean their hands on the animal at once, specific individuals must be chosen to act as representatives for the people.

Relying on the established laws for public offerings, there are different perspectives regarding who stepped forward to fulfill this duty [מלבי״ם]. One approach suggests that the king himself took on this role, joined by two judges from the high court. Another viewpoint, presented by Rabbi Shimon, maintains that a group of exactly five men was required to perform the act. According to a third tradition, the tribal leaders were the ones who stood in for the congregation, placing their hands upon the goats to achieve atonement for the nation.