Leviticus 4:15 - Coke's Commentary on the Holy Bible

The elders of the congregation— They were to do this as representatives of the whole people, from whom they are plainly distinguished; see Leviticus 4:13. It is to be observed, that the same ceremonies are prescribed for the sins of the high-priest and of the whole congregation. The altar of sweet incense, in particular, Leviticus 4:7; Leviticus 4:18 was to be atoned for each; to remind them, that they were each unworthy to offer prayers to God, while in a state of sin, which polluted in a certain sense the very altar and sanctuary itself; see ch. Leviticus 16:9.