Leviticus 27:18

But if he consecrates his field after the Jubilee, the priest is to calculate the price in proportion to the years left until the next Year of Jubilee, so that your valuation will be reduced.

Study Bible

But if he consecrates his field after the Jubilee
In the context of Leviticus, the Jubilee year was a time of liberation and restoration, occurring every 50 years. During this year, land that had been sold was to be returned to its original family owners. The act of consecrating a field refers to dedicating it to the Lord, often as a vow or offering. This phrase indicates a situation where the field is consecrated not during the Jubilee but afterward, which affects its valuation. The Jubilee concept underscores themes of redemption and rest, reflecting God's provision and sovereignty over the land.

the priest is to calculate the price
The priest's role in calculating the price highlights the religious and judicial authority vested in the priesthood. This calculation was necessary to determine the monetary equivalent of the field's value, which would be based on its potential yield until the next Jubilee. The involvement of the priest ensures that the process is fair and in accordance with divine law, emphasizing the integration of spiritual oversight in economic matters.

in proportion to the years left until the next Year of Jubilee
This phrase indicates that the valuation of the field is directly related to the number of years remaining until the next Jubilee. The fewer the years, the lower the valuation, as the field would soon revert to its original owner. This system ensured that the economic transactions were just and prevented the permanent loss of family inheritance. It reflects the biblical principle of stewardship and the temporary nature of earthly possessions.

so that your valuation will be reduced
The reduction in valuation serves as a practical application of the Jubilee's principles, ensuring that the consecration of the field is fair and equitable. This reduction acknowledges the diminishing time the consecrated field would be in the possession of the one who consecrated it. It also serves as a reminder of the transient nature of material wealth and the importance of aligning economic practices with God's laws. This principle can be seen as a type of Christ, who offers redemption and restoration, emphasizing the spiritual over the material.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priest
The priest plays a crucial role in evaluating and determining the value of the field based on the years remaining until the next Jubilee. This highlights the priest's role as a mediator and administrator of God's laws.

2. The Owner of the Field
The individual who consecrates his field to the Lord after the Jubilee. This act of consecration is a voluntary dedication of property to God.

3. The Jubilee
A significant event occurring every 50 years in Israel, where land was returned to its original owners, and debts were forgiven. It represents God's provision and the restoration of His people.

4. The Field
Represents the property or land that is being consecrated. In ancient Israel, land was a primary source of wealth and sustenance.

5. The Valuation
The process of determining the monetary worth of the field based on the number of years until the next Jubilee. This valuation reflects the economic principles embedded in the Mosaic Law.

Teaching Points

Understanding Consecration
Consecrating something to God involves setting it apart for His purposes. This act requires intentionality and a heart willing to honor God with one's possessions.

The Role of the Priest
The priest's involvement in valuation underscores the importance of spiritual leadership and accountability in financial and spiritual matters.

The Principle of Jubilee
The Jubilee serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over time and possessions. It teaches us about the importance of rest, restoration, and reliance on God's provision.

Valuation and Stewardship
The concept of valuation encourages believers to consider the worth of their resources and how they can be used for God's glory. It challenges us to be wise stewards of what God has entrusted to us.

Redemption and Restoration
The Jubilee points to the ultimate redemption and restoration found in Christ. It encourages believers to live in the freedom and hope that Jesus provides.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of consecrating a field after the Jubilee challenge our understanding of stewardship and dedication to God?

2. In what ways does the role of the priest in Leviticus 27:18 reflect the responsibilities of spiritual leaders today?

3. How can the principles of the Jubilee be applied to modern Christian living, particularly in areas of debt, rest, and restoration?

4. What does the process of valuation teach us about the importance of assessing the worth of our resources and using them for God's purposes?

5. How does the theme of redemption in the Jubilee year connect to the redemptive work of Christ in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25
Provides a broader context for understanding the Jubilee, including its purpose and regulations. It emphasizes themes of redemption and rest.

Numbers 18:21-24
Discusses the role of the Levites and the priesthood in receiving tithes and offerings, which connects to the priest's role in evaluating consecrated property.

Isaiah 61:1-2
The proclamation of the year of the Lord's favor, which is often associated with the Jubilee, highlighting themes of liberation and restoration.