Topical Bible: Priests: Services of Valuing Things Devoted

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the Old Testament, the role of the priest extended beyond religious rituals and sacrifices to include various administrative and judicial functions. One such responsibility was the valuation of things devoted to the Lord, as outlined in the book of Leviticus. This duty was crucial in maintaining the sanctity and order of offerings and vows made by the Israelites.

Biblical Foundation

The primary scriptural basis for the priests' role in valuing devoted things is found in Leviticus 27. This chapter provides detailed instructions on how individuals could dedicate persons, animals, houses, and fields to the Lord, and how these dedications were to be valued by the priests. The valuation process was necessary to ensure that the offerings were appropriate and in accordance with the Law.

Leviticus 27:2-8 states: "Speak to the Israelites and say, 'When a man makes a special vow to the LORD involving the value of persons, 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. Or if it is a female, your valuation shall be thirty shekels. And if the person is from five to twenty years of age, then your valuation shall be twenty shekels for a male and ten shekels for a female. If the person is from one month to five years of age, then your valuation shall be five shekels of silver for a male and three shekels of silver for a female. And if the person is sixty years of age or older, then your valuation shall be fifteen shekels for a male and ten shekels for a female. But if he is poorer than your 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.'"

Role of the Priest

The priest acted as an intermediary between the individual and God, ensuring that the vows and dedications were fulfilled in a manner consistent with divine instructions. The priest's valuation was not arbitrary but was guided by the standards set forth in the Law. This process underscored the importance of fairness and equity, as the priest was also responsible for adjusting the valuation based on the financial ability of the person making the vow.

The priest's role in valuation was a reflection of their broader duty to uphold the holiness and integrity of the worship practices of Israel. By determining the value of devoted things, the priest helped maintain the community's covenant relationship with God, ensuring that offerings were made with sincerity and reverence.

Valuation of Animals and Property

In addition to persons, animals and property could also be devoted to the Lord. Leviticus 27:9-13 addresses the valuation of animals: "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. 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 the original animal and its substitute shall become holy. If the vow involves any unclean animal that may not be brought as an offering to the LORD, the animal must be presented before the priest, who will set its value, whether high or low. As the priest values it, so it will be."

For property, the valuation was based on the year of Jubilee, as described in Leviticus 27:16-25. The priest's assessment took into account the proximity of the Jubilee year, which affected the value of the land or property being dedicated.

Significance

The service of valuing things devoted was a testament to the comprehensive nature of the priestly office. It highlighted the intersection of spiritual devotion and practical administration within the community of Israel. By ensuring that vows and dedications were honored appropriately, the priests facilitated a culture of integrity and accountability in worship, reflecting the holiness of God in the everyday lives of His people.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Leviticus 27:8
But if he be poorer than your estimation, then he shall present himself before the priest, and the priest shall value him; according to his ability that vowed shall the priest value him.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Introductory Notice Respecting Tauler's Life and Times
... love which others so readily yield them; of valuing themselves on ... who must be forced
to do any services for Him ... of God; and such are all those priests and nuns ...
/.../introductory notice respecting taulers life.htm

part i
... of the Trinity and occupy themselves with material, perishable things, thus
materialising ... Even men do not much value the services which we render ... Priests of God ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part i.htm

part ii
... and tranquillity; he becomes incapable of meditating upon heavenly things, or of ...
how many benefits the Creator and Saviour pours upon you through priests? ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm