Leviticus 27:19
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Leviticus 27:19
19 And if he that sanctified the field will in any wise redeem it, then he shall add the fifth part of the money of thy estimation unto it, and it shall be assured to him.
Chapter Context
Leviticus 27 is a legal and ritual chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of love, discipleship, truth. Written during Israel's wilderness period (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The ritual systems addressed were designed to distinguish Israel from surrounding Canaanite practices.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-34: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Leviticus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Leviticus 27:19
19 And if he that sanctified the field will in any wise redeem it, then he shall add the fifth part of the money of thy estimation unto it, and it shall be assured to him.
Analysis
And if he that sanctified the field will in any wise redeem it, then he shall add the fifth part of the money of thy estimation unto it, and it shall be assured to him.
This verse falls within the section on Vows and Dedications. Regulations for voluntary vows and dedicating persons or property to God, teaching careful commitment.
The access to God's presence that Leviticus carefully regulated is now freely available through Christ's blood, tearing the veil and opening the way to God.
Historical Context
Regulations for voluntary vows and dedicating persons or property to God, teaching careful commitment. Chapters 17-27, often called the 'Holiness Code,' expand covenant obligations beyond ritual to encompass all of life—sexuality, economics, justice, and relationships. The repeated refrain 'I am the LORD' grounds these laws in God's character and covenant relationship with Israel. Israel received these laws while encamped at Sinai, before entering Canaan. The laws prepared them for life in the promised land, distinguishing them from Canaanite practices and establishing their identity as God's holy nation. The portable tabernacle, central to Levitical worship, accompanied them through wilderness wanderings and eventually found permanent form in Solomon's temple. The Israelite dietary laws in Leviticus 11 have no exact parallel in surrounding cultures, though some ancient cultures had food taboos, suggesting unique revelation rather than borrowed customs.
Reflection
- How does this verse help you understand both God's justice and His mercy in salvation?
- How does this verse reveal God's character, and how should that revelation shape your relationship with Him?
- What does this verse teach about the seriousness of sin, the cost of redemption, or the beauty of holiness?
Word Studies
- Redeem: גָּאַל (Gaal) H1350 - To redeem, act as kinsman-redeemer