When the individual commits a sin inadvertently, he is to bring a female goat to the priest. A female goat is apparently less costly than the male goat. If he was poor, provision was made for him to bring instead a turtledove or pigeon (Leviticus 5:7–10) or even some fine flour (Leviticus 5:11–13).
28 or the sin which he has committed is made known to him, he shall bring for his offering a goat, a female without blemish, for his sin which he has committed.