In the context of the Bible, "estimations" often refer to the valuation or assessment of something, particularly in relation to vows, offerings, or dedications made to God. The concept is primarily found in the Old Testament, where specific guidelines are provided for determining the value of persons, animals, or property that are dedicated to the Lord.

Leviticus 27: Valuation of Vows

The primary biblical reference for estimations is found in Leviticus 27. This chapter outlines the laws concerning vows and dedications to the Lord, providing a detailed system for estimating the value of various offerings. The estimations are made by the priest and are based on several factors, including age, gender, and the type of offering.

Leviticus 27:2-8 states: "Speak to the Israelites and say to them: 'When a man makes a special vow to the LORD involving the value of persons, if the valuation concerns a male from twenty to sixty years of age, then your valuation shall be fifty shekels of silver, according to the sanctuary shekel. Or if it is a female, your valuation shall be thirty shekels. And if the person is from five to twenty years old, your valuation shall be twenty shekels for a male and ten shekels for a female. If the person is from one month to five years old, your valuation shall be five shekels of silver for a male and three shekels of silver for a female. And if the person is sixty years or older, your valuation shall be fifteen shekels for a male and ten shekels for a female. But if he is poorer than your valuation, he is to present the person before the priest, who shall set the value according to what the one making the vow can afford.'"

This passage highlights the structured approach to estimations, ensuring that vows and dedications are made with consideration of the individual's financial capacity. The priest plays a crucial role in determining the appropriate valuation, reflecting the importance of fairness and equity in religious obligations.

Purpose and Significance

The system of estimations serves several purposes within the biblical framework. Firstly, it provides a tangible way for individuals to express their devotion and commitment to God through vows and dedications. By assigning a specific value to these offerings, the Israelites could fulfill their religious duties in a manner that was both meaningful and manageable.

Secondly, the estimations underscore the principle of proportional giving. The varying valuations based on age, gender, and economic status ensure that each person can participate in religious offerings according to their means. This reflects a broader biblical theme of justice and compassion, where the needs and capabilities of each individual are taken into account.

Related Concepts

Estimations in the Bible are closely related to other concepts such as tithes, offerings, and sacrifices. While tithes represent a fixed portion of one's income or produce given to support the religious community, estimations involve a more personalized assessment of value for specific vows or dedications. Both practices emphasize the importance of giving and the acknowledgment of God's sovereignty over all possessions.

Additionally, the concept of estimations can be linked to the broader biblical theme of stewardship. Believers are called to manage their resources wisely and to honor God with their possessions. Estimations provide a structured way to fulfill this responsibility, ensuring that offerings are made thoughtfully and in accordance with divine instructions.

Conclusion

The biblical concept of estimations, as outlined in Leviticus 27, provides a framework for understanding the valuation of vows and dedications to God. Through a system that considers age, gender, and economic status, the Bible ensures that religious obligations are met with fairness and equity. This practice reflects the broader themes of justice, stewardship, and devotion that permeate the biblical narrative.

The Holy Spirit Convicting the World of Sin, of Righteousness and ...
... things and desperately wicked," and there is nothing in which the inbred deceitfulness
of our hearts comes out more clearly than in our estimations of ourselves ...
/.../torrey/the person and work of the holy spirit/chapter vii the holy spirit.htm

He Declares Falsely that the Manner of the Generation is to be ...
... their nature will vary with the worth of the parent, and that some peculiar manner
of birth will be struck out for each, according to these varying estimations ...
/.../gregory of nyssa dogmatic treatises etc/section 33 he declares falsely.htm

Chaldaean Civilization
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 3. <. ...
/.../chapter iiichaldaean civilization.htm

Estimations (1 Occurrence)
...Estimations (1 Occurrence). Leviticus 27:25 And all thy estimations shall be according
to the shekel of the sanctuary: twenty gerahs shall be the shekel. ...
/e/estimations.htm - 6k

Estimation (19 Occurrences)
... 2. (n.) An opinion or judgment of the worth, extent, or quantity of anything, formed
without using precise data; valuation; as, estimations of distance ...
/e/estimation.htm - 13k

Estranged (12 Occurrences)

/e/estranged.htm - 10k

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