Some commentators have suggested that Leviticus 5:17–19 form a summary, or general statement, of what has gone before. To view the passage in that way is unlikely, because of the addition of the clause, “He did not know it.” In other words, the offender is unconscious of the act itself, but he experiences a sense of guilt (‘šm). By way of contrast, Leviticus 5:3–4 records, “He comes to know it.” In light of these observations, this passage indicates a different set of circumstances.
17 “If anyone sins, doing any of the things that by the LORD’s commandments ought not to be done, though he did not know it, then realizes his guilt, he shall bear his iniquity.