Leviticus 27:27

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.

Study Bible

But if it is among the unclean animals
In the context of Leviticus, unclean animals are those that the Israelites were prohibited from eating or using in sacrifices. This distinction is rooted in the holiness code, which sets Israel apart from other nations. Unclean animals include pigs, camels, and certain birds and insects. The classification of animals as clean or unclean is detailed in Leviticus 11. This separation underscores the call for Israel to be holy and distinct, reflecting God's holiness.

then he may redeem it according to your valuation
Redemption here refers to the act of buying back something that has been dedicated to God. The valuation is determined by the priest, as outlined earlier in Leviticus 27. This process allows for flexibility in the dedication system, acknowledging that circumstances may change, and a person might need to retain the animal for practical reasons. The concept of redemption is a recurring theme in Scripture, symbolizing God's redemptive work through Christ, who redeems humanity from sin.

and add a fifth of its value
Adding a fifth (20%) to the valuation serves as a penalty or surcharge for redeeming the dedicated item. This additional cost ensures that the act of redemption is taken seriously and that the dedication to God is honored. The principle of adding a fifth is consistent with other laws in Leviticus, such as those concerning restitution (Leviticus 6:5). It reflects the importance of integrity and commitment in one's vows to God.

If it is not redeemed
If the owner chooses not to redeem the unclean animal, it remains dedicated to God. This decision might be due to financial constraints or a desire to fulfill the vow without alteration. The concept of not redeeming something dedicated to God emphasizes the seriousness of vows and the expectation that they be fulfilled as promised.

then it shall be sold according to your valuation
Selling the unredeemed animal ensures that its value is still consecrated to God, even if the animal itself is not used in worship. The sale proceeds would likely go to the sanctuary or the priests, supporting the religious community. This practice highlights the principle of stewardship and the importance of honoring one's commitments to God. The valuation by the priest ensures fairness and consistency in the process.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
- The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God to instruct the Israelites.

2. Israelites
- The people to whom the laws in Leviticus were given, guiding their worship and daily living.

3. Unclean Animals
- Animals considered ceremonially unclean according to the Mosaic Law, which could not be offered as sacrifices.

4. Priests
- The individuals responsible for overseeing the valuation and redemption process as described in the law.

5. Tabernacle
- The place where offerings and sacrifices were made, central to the worship practices of the Israelites.

Teaching Points

Understanding Redemption
The concept of redemption in Leviticus 27:27 illustrates the broader biblical theme of redemption, where something unclean or unworthy is made valuable through a price paid. This foreshadows the ultimate redemption through Christ.

Valuation and Worth
The process of valuation and adding a fifth to the value signifies the importance of recognizing worth and the cost of redemption. It teaches us to consider the value God places on redemption and the cost of sin.

Holiness and Separation
The distinction between clean and unclean animals underscores the call for holiness and separation from sin. As believers, we are called to live lives set apart for God.

Stewardship and Responsibility
The requirement to redeem or sell unclean animals reflects the responsibility of stewardship. We are called to manage what God has entrusted to us with integrity and according to His principles.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of redeeming unclean animals in Leviticus 27:27 reflect the broader biblical theme of redemption?

2. In what ways does the valuation process in this verse teach us about the cost of sin and the value of redemption?

3. How can the principles of holiness and separation from unclean things in Leviticus apply to our lives today as Christians?

4. What does the requirement to add a fifth to the value when redeeming an unclean animal teach us about God's expectations for stewardship and responsibility?

5. How does the redemption of unclean animals in the Old Testament point forward to the ultimate redemption found in Jesus Christ, as described in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 11
This chapter outlines the laws regarding clean and unclean animals, providing context for understanding the significance of unclean animals in Leviticus 27:27.

Numbers 18:15-17
Discusses the redemption of the firstborn, which parallels the concept of redeeming unclean animals.

Hebrews 9:13-14
Connects the Old Testament sacrificial system to the ultimate redemption through Christ, highlighting the insufficiency of animal sacrifices for true purification.