Old Testament
Leviticus 27:13
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If the owner wants to buy it back, he must pay the priest's value plus an additional 20 percent.
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But if he will at all redeem it, then he shall add a fifth part thereof unto thy estimation.
What Leviticus 27:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 27:13, the text discusses the process of redeeming a dedicated item or property. If someone has dedicated something to God but later wishes to reclaim it, they can do so by paying the priest an amount that reflects the item's value. However, there is an additional requirement: the owner must add 20% to the priest's valuation. This extra payment serves as a form of compensation for the priest's role in the transaction and acknowledges the sacredness of the item that was dedicated. The principle behind this is that dedicated items are considered holy, and reclaiming them involves a cost that reflects their value and the commitment made to God. This practice emphasizes the seriousness of vows and the importance of honoring commitments made to God, as well as the role of the priest in mediating these transactions.
How to apply Leviticus 27:13 to your life
This verse teaches us about the importance of honoring our commitments and the value of what we dedicate to God. When we make promises or dedicate resources, we should be prepared to follow through, even if it requires additional sacrifice or effort on our part.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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Keep studying Leviticus 27:13
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At a Glance — the Book of Leviticus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 27:13 mean?
Leviticus 27:13 explains how a person can redeem a dedicated item by paying its value plus an additional 20%. This reflects the seriousness of dedicating something to God and the cost involved in reclaiming it.
What is the significance of the 20 percent in Leviticus 27:13?
The additional 20 percent in Leviticus 27:13 serves as compensation for the priest's role in the redemption process and acknowledges the sacredness of the dedicated item.
How does Leviticus 27:13 apply to our lives today?
Leviticus 27:13 teaches us to honor our commitments and recognize the value of what we dedicate to God, reminding us that fulfilling promises may require additional sacrifice.
What does redeem mean in Leviticus 27:13?
In Leviticus 27:13, to redeem means to buy back a dedicated item by paying its assessed value plus an extra 20%, highlighting the cost associated with reclaiming something sacred.
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