Old Testament
Leviticus 27:21
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When the field is released in the Jubilee, it will become permanently holy to the LORD, like a field that has been completely devoted. It will become the property of the priests.
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But the field, when it goeth out in the jubile, shall be holy unto the LORD, as a field devoted; the possession thereof shall be the priest’s.
What Leviticus 27:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 27:21, the text discusses the fate of a field that has been dedicated to the Lord. When the Jubilee year arrives, which occurs every fifty years, the field is returned to its original owner but is considered permanently holy. This means that it is set apart for God’s purposes and cannot be treated like an ordinary field. The field is treated as a sacred possession, and it becomes the property of the priests, who serve in the temple. This reflects the importance of holiness and dedication in the community, emphasizing that certain things are reserved for God and His service. The Jubilee year serves as a reminder of God's ownership over the land and the people, reinforcing the idea that everything ultimately belongs to Him. This practice also promotes social justice by ensuring that land is not permanently lost and that everyone has a chance to reclaim their inheritance, highlighting God's concern for the well-being of His people.
How to apply Leviticus 27:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the importance of dedicating our resources to God. Just as fields were set apart for holy purposes, we can dedicate our time, talents, and possessions to serve God and others. This practice fosters a spirit of generosity and stewardship in our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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Keep studying Leviticus 27:21
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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 27:21 mean?
Leviticus 27:21 explains that when a field dedicated to the Lord is returned during the Jubilee year, it is considered permanently holy and becomes the property of the priests. This signifies that the field is set apart for God's purposes and emphasizes the importance of holiness in the community.
What is the significance of Jubilee in Leviticus 27:21?
The Jubilee year, occurring every fifty years, is significant because it allows for the return of land to its original owners and reinforces the idea of divine ownership. It serves as a reminder that all land ultimately belongs to God and promotes social justice by preventing permanent loss of inheritance.
What does 'holy to the LORD' mean in Leviticus 27:21?
'Holy to the LORD' in Leviticus 27:21 means that the field is set apart for God's use and cannot be treated like ordinary land. It reflects the idea that certain possessions are dedicated to God and His service, highlighting the importance of holiness.
Who owns the field after the Jubilee according to Leviticus 27:21?
After the Jubilee, the field becomes the property of the priests, indicating that it is reserved for sacred purposes. This ownership underscores the role of the priests in maintaining the holiness of dedicated items.
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