EXPIA'TION, n. L. expiatio. The act of atoning for a crime the act of making satisfaction for an offense,by which the guilt is done away, and the obligation of the offended person to punish the crime is canceled atonement satisfaction. Among pagans and Jews, expiation was made chiefly by sacrifices, or washings and purification. Among christians, expiation for the sins of men is usually considered as made only be the obedience and sufferings of Christ.
1. The means by which atonement for crimes is made atonement as sacrifices and purification among heathens, and the obedience and death of Christ among christians.
2. Among ancient heathens, an act by which the threats of prodigies were averted.
The King James Bible has stood its ground for nearly 400 years. However, during that time the English language has changed, and with it the meanings of some words it used. Here are more than 6,500 words whose definitions have changed since 1611.Wikipedia
Read More