What is the meaning of Leviticus 27:15? But • The verse begins with a contrast, recalling that a house already dedicated to the LORD (Leviticus 27:14) was considered holy. • “But” signals an exception to the normal permanent transfer: God makes room for a change of heart without breaking the vow. • Cross reference: Leviticus 5:15-16 likewise allows restitution “plus one-fifth,” showing God’s consistent pattern of grace—sin or change is costly, yet forgiveness is available. If he who consecrated his house • The owner himself—not a relative or buyer—retains responsibility. A vow is personal (Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 “When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it”). • Consecrating a house placed everyday life under God’s ownership, illustrating Romans 12:1 where believers offer their “bodies as a living sacrifice.” Redeems it • To redeem means to buy back what was given to God. • This option shows God values willing devotion more than forced possession (2 Corinthians 9:7 “God loves a cheerful giver”). • It also foreshadows Christ, our Redeemer, who pays the price for what already belongs to God (1 Peter 1:18-19). He must add a fifth to the assessed value • The priest had already set the valuation (Leviticus 27:14). Adding 20 percent: – Guards against casual vows by making reversal costly. – Compensates the sanctuary for any lost income. • Cross reference: Numbers 5:7 urges a similar “one-fifth” addition in restitution, stressing both justice and mercy. • Practically, it teaches that holiness has value; treating sacred things lightly carries a price (Hebrews 10:29). And it will belong to him • Once the extra payment is made, ownership fully returns without lingering guilt or obligation. • This closure highlights God’s orderly system: vows, valuations, redemptions—all honored (1 Corinthians 14:33 “God is not a God of disorder”). • The principle extends to believers today: integrity in commitments, financial or otherwise, keeps fellowship clear (Matthew 5:37 “Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes’”). summary Leviticus 27:15 teaches that a house devoted to God can be bought back by its owner, but only by adding 20 percent to the priest’s valuation. The clause underscores the seriousness of vows, the value God places on holiness, and His gracious provision for repentance without negating commitment. It calls believers to take promises seriously, honor God with tangible faithfulness, and respect the cost of redemption—a theme ultimately fulfilled in Christ’s own redemptive payment for us. |
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