Leviticus 27:19

And if the one who consecrated the field decides to redeem it, he must add a fifth to the assessed value, and it shall belong to him.

Study Bible

And if the one who consecrated the field decides to redeem it,
In the context of Leviticus, consecration refers to setting something apart for God. This could be a field, an animal, or another possession. The act of consecration was a voluntary vow, often made in gratitude or devotion. The option to redeem, or buy back, the field indicates the flexibility within the Mosaic Law for individuals to reassess their circumstances. This reflects God's understanding of human needs and changing situations. The concept of redemption is a recurring theme in Scripture, symbolizing God's redemptive work through Christ, who redeems humanity from sin.

he must add a fifth to the assessed value,
The addition of a fifth (20%) to the assessed value of the field is a form of interest or penalty for redeeming something that was dedicated to God. This requirement ensured that the act of consecration was taken seriously and not done lightly. It also provided a means for the sanctuary to benefit from the transaction. The principle of adding a fifth is seen elsewhere in Leviticus, such as in the laws concerning restitution (Leviticus 6:5). This reflects the biblical principle of restitution and the cost of redemption, pointing to the ultimate price paid by Christ for humanity's redemption.

and it shall belong to him.
Once the additional fifth is paid, the field returns to the original owner. This clause emphasizes the restoration of ownership upon fulfilling the redemption requirements. It highlights the balance between dedication to God and personal stewardship. The concept of belonging is significant in biblical theology, as it underscores the relationship between God and His people. Just as the field returns to the owner, believers are reminded of their belonging to God through Christ's redemptive work, reinforcing the covenant relationship established by God with His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God on Mount Sinai and communicated them to the Israelites.

2. The Israelites
The recipients of the Levitical laws, including the laws of consecration and redemption.

3. The Field
Represents property that could be consecrated to the Lord and later redeemed by the owner.

4. The Lord
The ultimate owner of all land, to whom the field is consecrated.

5. Mount Sinai
The place where God gave the laws to Moses, including the instructions found in Leviticus.

Teaching Points

Understanding Consecration
Recognize that consecration involves setting something apart for God's use, acknowledging His sovereignty over all we possess.

The Cost of Redemption
The requirement to add a fifth to the value of the field when redeeming it teaches us about the costliness of redemption, pointing to the ultimate price paid by Christ for our redemption.

God's Ownership
This passage reminds us that everything we have belongs to God, and we are merely stewards of His resources.

Faithfulness in Stewardship
As stewards, we are called to manage our resources wisely and in a way that honors God, including being willing to give back to Him what is rightfully His.

Spiritual Redemption
Just as the field could be redeemed, we too are redeemed by Christ. This should inspire gratitude and a desire to live a life consecrated to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does it mean to consecrate something to the Lord, and how can we apply this principle in our daily lives?

2. How does the concept of adding a fifth to the value of the field when redeeming it relate to the idea of sacrifice and redemption in the New Testament?

3. In what ways can we acknowledge God's ownership of our possessions today, and how does this affect our financial decisions?

4. How does understanding the cost of redemption in Leviticus 27:19 deepen our appreciation for the redemption we have in Christ?

5. What practical steps can we take to ensure that we are faithful stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25
Discusses the Year of Jubilee, which also involves the redemption of property and emphasizes God's ownership of the land.

Numbers 18
Details the laws of tithes and offerings, which relate to the concept of dedicating and redeeming property.

Deuteronomy 15
Talks about the release of debts and the redemption of property, highlighting God's provision and mercy.

Hebrews 9
Connects the Old Testament laws of redemption to the ultimate redemption through Christ.

1 Corinthians 6
Discusses the concept of being bought with a price, paralleling the idea of redemption.