Leviticus 27:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Leviticus 27:21
21 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.
Chapter Context
Leviticus 27 is a legal and ritual chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of love, obedience, hope. 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 contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 27:21
21 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.
Analysis
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.
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 central theme of Leviticus is God's holiness and the call for His people to be holy. The Hebrew word qadosh (קָדוֹשׁ) means 'set apart' or 'sacred,' emphasizing both separation from sin and consecration to God's purposes. The Aaronic priesthood mediated between God and Israel, offering sacrifices and maintaining the tabernacle. This prefigured Christ's superior priesthood after the order of Melchizedek.
What Leviticus portrayed through types and shadows, Christ fulfilled in reality through His incarnation, perfect life, atoning death, and resurrection.
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. Ancient sacrificial texts from cultures surrounding Israel demonstrate the widespread practice of animal sacrifice, but Israel's system uniquely emphasized moral atonement over magical efficacy.
Reflection
- How does God's holiness, as revealed in this verse, shape your understanding of worship, obedience, and daily living?
- How does Christ's superior priesthood, prefigured in this verse, assure you of access to God and effective intercession?
- In what practical ways should this verse influence your church life, family relationships, or personal integrity?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Leviticus 25:10, 25:28, 25:31, Numbers 18:14, Ezekiel 44:29