Not to put oil on the meal offerings of wrongdoers

This mitzvah prohibits adding oil to the meal offerings that are brought as sin offerings. Unlike voluntary minchot, which include oil and frankincense as symbols of joy and favor, the minchah of a sinner must be offered plainly, without adornment.

Rambam explains that this lack of oil reflects the somber nature of atonement — the sinner is not in a position to display celebration or abundance. Sefer HaChinuch notes that oil represents blessing and happiness; to add it to a sin offering would contradict the offering’s purpose of humility and remorse. The Talmud observes that omitting oil and frankincense prevents the sinner’s korban from resembling the voluntary offerings of the righteous, thereby reinforcing the sincerity of teshuvah. Rashi underscores that the absence of oil shows the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance. Ramban interprets it as a lesson in spiritual honesty: external beautification must not cover over transgression.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

• Rambam (Hilchot Ma’aseh HaKorbanot 12:15): Rules that one who adds oil to such a minchah transgresses this commandment.
• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 414): Explains the symbolism of withholding oil and incense — they are inappropriate when one seeks forgiveness.
• Talmud (Menachot 59a): Distinguishes between voluntary meal offerings with oil and sin offerings without, reflecting differing spiritual states.
• Rashi (Lev. 5:11): Notes that oil and frankincense signify joy, and therefore are withheld from the sinner’s offering.
• Ramban (Lev. 5:11): Teaches that the omission forces the sinner to confront his actions with humility and contrition.