What is the meaning of Leviticus 27:5? Setting and purpose Leviticus 27 closes the book by regulating voluntary vows. When an Israelite wished to dedicate himself or another person to the LORD, he did so by paying a set “valuation.” The fixed amounts kept vows equitable and prevented emotional over-giving (Leviticus 27:2–4). The verse in view, Leviticus 27:5, spells out the rate for older children and teens. “And if the person is from five to twenty years of age” • God recognizes this distinct life stage. Old enough to work and contribute, yet still dependent, the five-to-twenty bracket carries real economic value (compare Exodus 13:13; Numbers 14:29). • By specifying ages, the law protects families from rash vows involving infants (v. 6) or those in their prime earning years (vv. 3–4). The calibration is both merciful and practical. • Cross references show that vows involving children were not uncommon—think of Hannah dedicating Samuel (1 Samuel 1:27-28) or Jephthah’s tragic rash vow (Judges 11:30-35). This statute provided a safe alternative: pay the valuation instead of sacrificing a future. “then your valuation for the male shall be twenty shekels” • Twenty shekels equaled about eight ounces of silver—substantial but attainable. • The amount underscores the dignity of young males as potential laborers capable of field and military service (Numbers 1:3). • The fixed silver price foreshadows redemption themes: Israel herself was “bought” out of Egypt (Deuteronomy 7:8), and every firstborn male was later redeemed for five shekels (Numbers 18:16). Ultimately, Christ would pay a far higher price for our ransom (1 Peter 1:18-19). “and for the female ten shekels.” • Ten shekels—half the male rate—reflects the economic reality of ancient agrarian life, not a statement of lesser worth before God (Genesis 1:27; Galatians 3:28). Women’s labor was valued differently in that context, so the vow price was adjusted accordingly. • The provision protected families with daughters from financial strain while still honoring a girl’s dedication to the LORD (cf. Miriam’s leadership in Exodus 15:20 and Mary’s willing service in Luke 1:38). • The consistent 2-to-1 scale across age brackets (vv. 3–7) shows order, predictability, and fairness—hallmarks of God’s law (Psalm 19:7-9). Summary Leviticus 27:5 sets a redeemable value on youths aged five to twenty: twenty shekels for a male, ten for a female. The verse illustrates God’s practical care—honoring voluntary devotion while safeguarding families. It affirms human dignity, introduces the concept of monetary redemption, and anticipates the greater redemption accomplished by Christ, who paid with His own blood what silver could never buy. |
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