What does Leviticus 27:31 teach about redeeming tithes with an additional fifth? Key Verse “Whoever wishes to redeem any part of his tithe must add a fifth to it.” (Leviticus 27:31) Immediate Context • Leviticus 27 closes the book by regulating vows, dedications, and tithes—matters that acknowledge God’s absolute ownership. • Verses 30-34 address the tenth of produce and livestock that already belongs to the LORD. Verse 31 supplies the option—and cost—of keeping that tithe for personal use. What “Redeeming” a Tithe Means • “Redeem” (Hebrew gaʾal) means to buy back or release by payment. • An Israelite could choose to retain his grain, fruit, or other produce rather than deliver it to the sanctuary storehouse. • To do so legitimately, he paid money equal to the tithe’s value plus an additional fifth (20 %). Livestock, however, could not be substituted (v. 33). Why Add One-Fifth? • Affirms Sacred Ownership: The increase underscores that the original tenth is holy and not to be treated as common (v. 30). • Discourages Casual Substitution: A 20 % premium makes redemption a deliberate, costly choice, preventing stinginess. • Mirrors Restitution Principles: The same “plus one-fifth” appears in cases of theft or misuse of holy things (Leviticus 6:5; Numbers 5:7), teaching that when God’s rights are infringed, restoration requires more than simple replacement. • Foreshadows Grace-Cost Dynamics: While God permits redemption, it reminds the worshiper that privileges with the LORD always carry responsibility. Crossover with Other Scriptures • Numbers 18:25-32 affirms that tithes support the priestly ministry; redeeming them still preserves that provision. • Deuteronomy 12:17 prevents the tithe from being eaten “within your gates,” reinforcing its sacred character. • Proverbs 3:9-10 shows that honoring the LORD with “firstfruits” leads to blessing, echoing the premium principle: God comes first, abundance follows. • Malachi 3:8-10 equates withholding tithes with robbing God, highlighting why a redeemed tithe must cost extra—He must not be defrauded. Timeless Principles for Believers • God’s Portion Is Non-Negotiable: What He claims remains His, even if temporarily retained by the giver. • Holiness Has Real-World Cost: Obedience may require tangible sacrifice that tests the heart’s priorities. • Restoration Exceeds Loss: When something due to God is withheld, making it right involves more than a simple return; wholehearted restitution honors His glory. Takeaway Thoughts Leviticus 27:31 teaches that keeping back what belongs to the LORD is permissible only by adding a fifth, underscoring both His ownership and the seriousness of wholehearted devotion. The principle still calls believers to honor God first and, where necessary, to restore with generosity rather than bare minimums. |
    |