Topical Bible: Valuer

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In biblical terms, a "valuer" refers to an individual who assesses the worth or value of something, often in the context of property, goods, or offerings. The concept of valuation is significant in the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament, where it is associated with the laws and regulations given to the Israelites.

Biblical Context

The role of a valuer is most prominently seen in the book of Leviticus, where God provides Moses with detailed instructions regarding vows and dedications to the Lord. In Leviticus 27, the valuation of persons, animals, houses, and fields dedicated to the Lord is outlined. The priest often served as the valuer, determining the worth of these dedications based on specific criteria.

Leviticus 27:2-8 : "Speak to the Israelites and say to them: When a man makes a special vow to the LORD involving the valuation 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 of age, then 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 of age, then 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."

Role of the Priest as Valuer

The priest's role as a valuer was crucial in ensuring fairness and adherence to God's commandments. The priest was responsible for assessing the value of offerings and dedications, taking into account the individual's ability to pay. This system underscored the importance of intention and sincerity in worship, rather than the mere monetary value of the offering.

Valuation of Property and Goods

In addition to persons, the valuation of property and goods was also a significant aspect of the Mosaic Law. Leviticus 27:14-25 provides guidelines for valuing houses and fields dedicated to the Lord. The valuation was based on factors such as the year of Jubilee, which affected the worth of the property due to the cyclical restoration of land ownership.

Leviticus 27:16-19 : "If a man consecrates to the LORD a part of his field, then your valuation shall be proportional to the seed required for it—fifty shekels of silver for every homer of barley seed. If he consecrates his field during the Year of Jubilee, the price will stand according to your valuation. But if he consecrates his field after the Jubilee, the priest shall calculate the price according to the years remaining until the next Year of Jubilee, and the deduction shall be made from your valuation. If the one who consecrated the field wishes to redeem it, he must add a fifth to its value, and it shall belong to him."

Spiritual Implications

The concept of valuation in the Bible extends beyond the physical and monetary. It reflects the spiritual principle that God values the heart and intentions of His people. The meticulous instructions for valuation highlight God's desire for His people to approach Him with integrity and devotion, ensuring that their offerings are genuine expressions of faith and commitment.

Conclusion

The role of the valuer in biblical times was integral to maintaining the sanctity and order of worship and dedication to God. Through the process of valuation, the Israelites were reminded of the importance of sincerity and the true worth of their offerings in the eyes of the Lord.

Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary

(n.) One who values; an appraiser.

Thesaurus

Valuer (1 Occurrence)
...Valuer (1 Occurrence). Leviticus 27:32 And a tenth part of the herd and of the flock,
whatever goes under the rod of the valuer, will be holy to the Lord. (BBE) ...
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