Leviticus 27
BSB1 Then the LORD said to Moses, 2 “Speak to the Israelites and say to them, ‘When someone makes a special vow to the LORD involving the value of persons, 3 if the valuation concerns a male from twenty to sixty years of age, then your valuation shall be fifty shekels of silver, according to the sanctuary shekel. 4 Or if it is a female, then your valuation shall be thirty shekels. 5 And if the person is from five to twenty years of age, then your valuation for the male shall be twenty shekels, and for the female ten shekels. 6 Now if the person is from one month to five years of age, then your valuation for the male shall be five shekels of silver, and for the female three shekels of silver. 7 And if the person is sixty years of age or older, then your valuation shall be fifteen shekels for the male and ten shekels for the female. 8 But if the one making the vow is too poor to pay the valuation, he is to present the person before the priest, who shall set the value according to what the one making the vow can afford. 9 If he vows an animal that may be brought as an offering to the LORD, any such animal given to the LORD shall be holy. 10 He must not replace it or exchange it, either good for bad or bad for good. But if he does substitute one animal for another, both that animal and its substitute will be holy. 11 But if the vow involves any of the unclean animals that may not be brought as an offering to the LORD, the animal must be presented before the priest. 12 The priest shall set its value, whether high or low; as the priest values it, the price will be set. 13 If, however, the owner decides to redeem the animal, he must add a fifth to its value. 14 Now if a man consecrates his house as holy to the LORD, then the priest shall value it either as good or bad. The price will stand just as the priest values it. 15 But if he who consecrated his house redeems it, he must add a fifth to the assessed value, and it will belong to him. 16 If a man consecrates to the LORD a parcel of his land, then your valuation shall be proportional to the seed required for it—fifty shekels of silver for every homer of barley seed. 17 If he consecrates his field during the Year of Jubilee, the price will stand according to your valuation. 18 But if he consecrates his field after the Jubilee, the priest is to calculate the price in proportion to the years left until the next Year of Jubilee, so that your valuation will be reduced. 19 And if the one who consecrated the field decides to redeem it, he must add a fifth to the assessed value, and it shall belong to him. 20 If, however, he does not redeem the field, or if he has sold it to another man, it may no longer be redeemed. 21 When the field is released in the Jubilee, it will become holy, like a field devoted to the LORD; it becomes the property of the priests. 22 Now if a man consecrates to the LORD a field he has purchased, which is not a part of his own property, 23 then the priest shall calculate for him the value up to the Year of Jubilee, and the man shall pay the assessed value on that day as a sacred offering to the LORD. 24 In the Year of Jubilee the field shall return to the one from whom it was bought—the original owner of the land. 25 Every valuation will be according to the sanctuary shekel, twenty gerahs to the shekel. 26 But no one may consecrate a firstborn of the livestock, because a firstborn belongs to the LORD. Whether it is an ox or a sheep, it is the LORD’s. 27 But if it is among the unclean animals, then he may redeem it according to your valuation and add a fifth of its value. If it is not redeemed, then it shall be sold according to your valuation. 28 Nothing that a man sets apart to the LORD from all he owns—whether a man, an animal, or his inherited land—can be sold or redeemed; everything so devoted is most holy to the LORD. 29 No person set apart for destruction may be ransomed; he must surely be put to death. 30 Thus any tithe from the land, whether from the seed of the land or the fruit of the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD. 31 If a man wishes to redeem part of his tithe, he must add a fifth to its value. 32 Every tenth animal from the herd or flock that passes under the shepherd’s rod will be holy to the LORD. 33 He must not inspect whether it is good or bad, and he shall not make any substitution. But if he does make a substitution, both the animal and its substitute shall become holy; they cannot be redeemed.’" 34 These are the commandments that the LORD gave to Moses for the Israelites on Mount Sinai.
Study Notes — Leviticus 27
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Leviticus 27
- Themes from Leviticus 27
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Leviticus 27
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Leviticus 27 begins by discussing the redemption of persons dedicated to the Lord, with specific prices assigned to different age groups and genders (Leviticus 27:1-7). The chapter then addresses the consecration of animals, which could be redeemed or sacrificed (Leviticus 27:9-13). It also discusses the dedication of houses and fields to the Lord, which could be redeemed by paying a certain price (Leviticus 27:14-25). The chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of giving God the firstborn of all animals, and the redemption of unclean animals (Leviticus 27:26-33). Throughout the chapter, the emphasis is on the importance of devotion and redemption, and the need to recognize that everything belongs to God.
Context for the Chapter
Leviticus 27 is the final chapter of the book of Leviticus, which is part of the larger narrative of the Pentateuch. The chapter is closely connected to the preceding chapters, which discuss the laws and regulations governing the priesthood and the sacrificial system. The emphasis on redemption and devotion in Leviticus 27 reflects the overall theme of the book, which is to provide a framework for the Israelites to live in covenant relationship with God. In the larger biblical narrative, Leviticus 27 points forward to the ultimate redemption that would be accomplished through Jesus Christ, who would pay the price for our sins and consecrate us to God.
Heart Application
As we reflect on Leviticus 27, we are reminded of the importance of consecrating our lives and possessions to God. We are called to recognize that everything belongs to Him, and to give Him the firstfruits of all that we have. This means being faithful in our tithing, using our resources to advance God's kingdom, and dedicating our lives to His service. By doing so, we acknowledge His sovereignty and provision in our lives, and we demonstrate our devotion to Him.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Leviticus 27 is about dedicating our lives and possessions to God, recognizing that everything belongs to Him. The chapter discusses the redemption of persons, animals, and property, and emphasizes the importance of giving God the firstfruits of all that we have. By consecrating our lives to God, we acknowledge His sovereignty and provision in our lives, and demonstrate our devotion to Him (Leviticus 27:30).
Voices from the Church
“The tithe is a reminder that God is the owner of all that we have, and that we are stewards of His resources. By giving God the first tenth of our income, we acknowledge His sovereignty and provision in our lives.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The concept of redemption is central to the Christian faith, emphasizing the importance of Christ's payment for our sins. As believers, we are called to consecrate our lives to God, recognizing that we belong to Him.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Redemption of Persons (27:1-8) — The chapter begins by discussing the redemption of persons dedicated to the Lord, with specific prices assigned to different age groups and genders.
- Consecration of Animals (27:9-13) — The chapter then addresses the consecration of animals, which could be redeemed or sacrificed.
- Dedication of Houses and Fields (27:14-25) — The chapter discusses the dedication of houses and fields to the Lord, which could be redeemed by paying a certain price.
- Firstborn Animals and Unclean Animals (27:26-33) — The chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of giving God the firstborn of all animals, and the redemption of unclean animals.
- Conclusion (27:34) — The chapter ends with a summary statement, emphasizing the importance of obeying God's commands and recognizing His sovereignty in our lives.
Core Doctrines
- Redemption
- Leviticus 27 teaches us about the concept of redemption, emphasizing the importance of paying a price to consecrate oneself or one's possessions to God.
- Consecration
- The chapter discusses the concept of consecration, which refers to the act of dedicating oneself or one's possessions to God.
- Tithing
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of tithing, which is the practice of giving God the first tenth of one's income.
- Firstfruits
- The concept of firstfruits is also central to the chapter, emphasizing the importance of giving God the best of all that we have.
Lessons from Leviticus 27
- The Importance of Consecration — The chapter teaches us the importance of consecrating our lives and possessions to God, recognizing that everything belongs to Him.
- The Role of Redemption — The chapter emphasizes the concept of redemption, which is central to the Christian faith and points forward to the ultimate redemption accomplished through Jesus Christ.
- The Practice of Tithing — The chapter emphasizes the importance of tithing, which is the practice of giving God the first tenth of one's income.
- The Significance of Firstfruits — The concept of firstfruits is central to the chapter, emphasizing the importance of giving God the best of all that we have.
- Recognizing God's Sovereignty — The chapter teaches us the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty and provision in our lives, and acknowledging His ownership of all that we have.
Themes from Leviticus 27
- Redemption and Devotion — The chapter emphasizes the importance of redemption and devotion, recognizing that everything belongs to God and that we should consecrate our lives to Him.
- Consecration and Tithing — The chapter discusses the concepts of consecration and tithing, emphasizing the importance of giving God the firstfruits of all that we have.
- Firstfruits and Stewardship — The concept of firstfruits is central to the chapter, emphasizing the importance of giving God the best of all that we have and recognizing our role as stewards of His resources.
- God's Sovereignty and Provision — The chapter teaches us the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty and provision in our lives, and acknowledging His ownership of all that we have.
- Faithfulness and Obedience — The chapter emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God's commands, recognizing that our lives and possessions belong to Him.
Questions for Meditation
- What does it mean to consecrate our lives to God, and how can we do this in practical ways?
- How does the concept of redemption in Leviticus 27 point forward to the ultimate redemption accomplished through Jesus Christ?
- What is the significance of giving God the firstfruits of all that we have, and how can we apply this principle in our lives?
- How does the chapter's emphasis on devotion to God challenge or encourage you in your own spiritual journey?
- What are some ways in which we can recognize God's sovereignty and provision in our lives, and acknowledge His ownership of all that we have?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Redemption of Persons (27:1-8)
| 27:1 | The chapter begins by discussing the redemption of persons dedicated to the Lord, with specific prices assigned to different age groups and genders. |
| 27:2 | The priest is responsible for determining the value of the person being consecrated to God. |
| 27:3 | The price of redemption varies depending on the age and gender of the person being consecrated. |
| 27:4 | The price of redemption for a female is lower than that for a male. |
| 27:5 | The price of redemption for children is lower than that for adults. |
| 27:6 | The price of redemption for infants is the lowest of all. |
| 27:7 | The price of redemption for the elderly is higher than that for younger adults. |
| 27:8 | The person being consecrated to God must pay the determined price to the priest. |
2. Consecration of Animals (27:9-13)
| 27:9 | The chapter then addresses the consecration of animals, which could be redeemed or sacrificed. |
| 27:10 | The animal being consecrated to God must be without defect. |
| 27:11 | The animal being consecrated to God cannot be redeemed if it has a defect. |
| 27:12 | The priest is responsible for determining the value of the animal being consecrated to God. |
| 27:13 | The person consecrating the animal to God must pay the determined price to the priest. |
3. Dedication of Houses and Fields (27:14-25)
| 27:14 | The chapter discusses the dedication of houses and fields to the Lord, which could be redeemed by paying a certain price. |
| 27:15 | The person dedicating the house or field to God must pay the determined price to the priest. |
| 27:16 | The value of the house or field is determined by the number of years until the next Jubilee year. |
| 27:17 | The person dedicating the house or field to God must pay the determined price to the priest, based on the number of years until the next Jubilee year. |
| 27:18 | If the person dedicating the house or field to God redeems it, they must add one-fifth to the price. |
| 27:19 | If the person dedicating the house or field to God does not redeem it, it becomes the property of the priest. |
| 27:20 | The person dedicating the house or field to God must not sell or redeem it after it has been dedicated. |
| 27:21 | The house or field dedicated to God becomes the property of the priest in the year of Jubilee. |
| 27:22 | The person dedicating the house or field to God must not use it for any other purpose after it has been dedicated. |
| 27:23 | The priest is responsible for determining the value of the house or field dedicated to God. |
| 27:24 | The person dedicating the house or field to God must pay the determined price to the priest. |
| 27:25 | The shekel is the standard unit of measurement for the price of redemption. |
4. Firstborn Animals and Unclean Animals (27:26-33)
| 27:26 | The chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of giving God the firstborn of all animals. |
| 27:27 | The firstborn of an unclean animal can be redeemed by paying a certain price. |
| 27:28 | The person redeeming the firstborn of an unclean animal must pay the determined price to the priest. |
| 27:29 | The firstborn of a clean animal cannot be redeemed, but must be given to God. |
| 27:30 | A tenth of everything from the land belongs to God, and is holy to Him. |
| 27:31 | If a person wants to redeem their tithe, they must add one-fifth to the price. |
| 27:32 | The tithe of the herd and the flock is holy to God. |
| 27:33 | The person giving the tithe to God must not pick out the good animals, but must give the first tenth of all that they have. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the tithe in Leviticus 27?
The tithe is a reminder that God is the owner of all that we have, and that we are stewards of His resources. By giving God the first tenth of our income, we acknowledge His sovereignty and provision in our lives (Leviticus 27:30).
How does the concept of redemption in Leviticus 27 point forward to the ultimate redemption accomplished through Jesus Christ?
The concept of redemption in Leviticus 27 emphasizes the importance of paying a price to consecrate oneself or one's possessions to God. This points forward to the ultimate redemption accomplished through Jesus Christ, who paid the price for our sins and consecrated us to God (Leviticus 27:1-8).
What is the difference between consecration and redemption in Leviticus 27?
Consecration refers to the act of dedicating oneself or one's possessions to God, while redemption refers to the payment of a price to consecrate something to God. In Leviticus 27, we see both concepts at work, as the Israelites are called to consecrate their lives and possessions to God, and to pay a price to redeem them (Leviticus 27:1-33).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Leviticus 27:1 → Exodus 30:12 | The concept of redemption in Leviticus 27 is closely related to the concept of redemption in Exodus 30:12, where the Israelites are called to pay a ransom for their lives. |
| 2 | Leviticus 27:9 → Deuteronomy 15:19 | The consecration of animals in Leviticus 27 is similar to the consecration of animals in Deuteronomy 15:19, where the Israelites are called to consecrate the firstborn of their animals to God. |
| 3 | Leviticus 27:14 → Numbers 18:21 | The dedication of houses and fields to God in Leviticus 27 is similar to the dedication of the tithes to the Levites in Numbers 18:21. |
| 4 | Leviticus 27:26 → Exodus 13:2 | The concept of the firstborn in Leviticus 27 is closely related to the concept of the firstborn in Exodus 13:2, where the Israelites are called to consecrate the firstborn of their animals to God. |
| 5 | Leviticus 27:30 → Malachi 3:10 | The tithe in Leviticus 27 is similar to the tithe in Malachi 3:10, where the Israelites are called to bring the full tithe into the storehouse. |
| 6 | Leviticus 27:30 → Matthew 23:23 | The tithe in Leviticus 27 is also referenced in Matthew 23:23, where Jesus teaches about the importance of tithing. |
| 7 | Leviticus 27:1 → Hebrews 9:12 | The concept of redemption in Leviticus 27 points forward to the ultimate redemption accomplished through Jesus Christ, who paid the price for our sins and consecrated us to God. |
| 8 | Leviticus 27:9 → 1 Corinthians 6:20 | The consecration of our bodies to God in 1 Corinthians 6:20 is similar to the consecration of animals in Leviticus 27, where the Israelites are called to consecrate their animals to God. |
| 9 | Leviticus 27:14 → Acts 4:32 | The dedication of houses and fields to God in Leviticus 27 is similar to the dedication of possessions to the community in Acts 4:32, where the early Christians shared their resources with one another. |
| 10 | Leviticus 27:26 → Revelation 5:9 | The concept of the firstborn in Leviticus 27 points forward to the ultimate firstborn, Jesus Christ, who is the firstborn of all creation and the redeemer of our souls. |
Sermons on Leviticus 27
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Passing Under the Rod by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the urgency of the last days and the impending wrath of God. He highlights the image of a trumpet sounding and preparations being made for b |
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Leviticus by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the book of Leviticus and its emphasis on holiness. The book contains numerous laws and regulations regarding sin offerings, restitution, and |
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Prevailing Prayers by Sharon Ries | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of drawing near to God through prayer. He references James 4:8, which encourages believers to draw near to God and promises th |
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Christians Must Perform the Truth - Part 4 by Stephen Olford | In this sermon, the speaker addresses the topic of giving and tithing. One person shares a testimony of how they continued to tithe even after their income decreased, and God faith |
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(Through the Bible) Leviticus by Zac Poonen | This sermon delves into the book of Leviticus, highlighting the importance of understanding God's heart behind the detailed instructions given. It emphasizes the themes of holiness |
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No Credit System by Arthur Vess | Arthur Vess emphasizes the danger of using the tithe for personal needs and then returning it, leading to a path of backsliding from tithing and grace. He highlights that the tithe |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Leviticus 27
In his commentary on Leviticus 27, Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of consecrating our lives and possessions to God. He notes that the chapter teaches us about the concept of redemption, which is central to the Christian faith. Henry also highlights the significance of the tithe, which is a reminder that God is the owner of all that we have. He encourages believers to be faithful in their tithing, using their resources to advance God's kingdom and to demonstrate their devotion to Him. Throughout the commentary, Henry emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty and provision in our lives, and of acknowledging His ownership of all that we have. By consecrating our lives to God, we acknowledge His sovereignty and provision, and demonstrate our faithfulness to Him. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Importance of Redemption
Throughout the chapter, we see the importance of redemption, whether it is the redemption of persons, animals, or property. This emphasizes the idea that everything belongs to God, and that we must recognize His sovereignty in our lives.
The Role of the Priest
The priest plays a significant role in the chapter, as he is responsible for determining the value of the persons or property being consecrated to God. This highlights the importance of spiritual leadership in the lives of God's people.
The Emphasis on Devotion
The chapter emphasizes the importance of devotion to God, recognizing that our lives and possessions belong to Him. This devotion is reflected in the various ways in which the Israelites could consecrate themselves and their property to the Lord.