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The decline of Christianity worldwide is no secret and it may be expected that churches will die, or--at most--become fringe phenomena. As science progresses it gets clear that the Bible cannot be regarded as divinely inspired due to all the mistakes, contradictions, fiction dressed up as history and inhumane laws it contains. Christian doctrines are often irrational superstitions, and one may lead a happy, meaningful and moral life without being religious. This book is a must-read for theologians, philosophers and scientists, but it is also aimed at the lay person who is interested in religion, philosophy, and science.

The Day of Atonement was a day of rest, penitence, and purification for Israelites of loyal character. On this day, sins and impurities that had accumulated throughout the year were removed from the tabernacle by the application of sacrificial blood to its altars and compartments and transferred by the high priest's confession onto the goat for Azazel, which carried them to the desert. Israel was thus rendered ""clean"" before the Lord, ensuring that he would continue to dwell in their midst. As it became ingrained in the veil of Jewish consciousness, the Day of Atonement underwent a process of reflection and reimagination as shown in Second Temple literature, where Azazel plays a significant eschatological role. Arriving in New Testament times, the day's imagery and typology presented irresistible motifs which its authors used to proclaim Jesus Christ's atoning death and heavenly intercession on behalf of believers. By utilizing a coherent intertextual approach, this book explores how John wove the Day of Atonement into the colorful literary tapestry of Revelation.