Definition: Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When a man shall make a singular vow, the persons [shall be] for the LORD by thy estimation.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 27:2. It's a really important part of understanding how God views worship and obligations within the Jewish tradition. Here’s a simple explanation: Basically, it means: “When someone makes a special promise to God, you should give them something as a sign of respect and gratitude.” Let’s unpack that a little further: “Speak unto the children of Israel…” : This tells us this rule applies specifically to the Israelites (the Jewish people) during times of worship. “…and say unto them…” : This is a command or instruction from God. “…when a man shall make a singular vow…” : A “vow” is like a promise, a prayer, or an intention made to God. It’s something you offer as a sign of your devotion. "...the persons [shall be] for the LORD by thy estimation.” : This is where it gets interesting. "Persons" here refers to leaders – priests and high officials - who are responsible for overseeing the worship of God. “By thy estimation” means that God decides how much respect or thanks to give them, based on what they offer. What's the point? The verse is about showing reverence and gratitude to God through proper worship. It’s a way for the Israelites to demonstrate that they are devoted to Him and their faith. It emphasizes that offering something (like a promise or sacrifice) shows that they understand and respect the divine nature of things. Important Note: This verse is part of a larger system of Jewish law, and it's worth remembering that it’s about how we show our love to God – not necessarily what we give him. --- Do you want me to explain any specific aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like to know: What kind of "vows" were being made under this rule? How is this law applied today in Jewish practice?

Definition: And if he will not redeem the field, or if he have sold the field to another man, it shall not be redeemed any more.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 27:20. It’s a pretty important one about responsibility and God’s protection of His land. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse essentially says that God owns the land and will protect it, but he doesn't give it to anyone. If someone takes possession of the land – whether by selling it or letting it go – God is saying they are not allowed to receive his blessing or protection. Let’s break it down further: “And if he will not redeem the field…” This means that God has a right to keep the land as it is, and he won't let anyone take it back. “…or if he have sold the field to another man…” This adds a specific situation – someone has given the land over to another person. “it shall not be redeemed any more.” This is the key part. It means that God’s promise of protection and ownership cannot be fulfilled again for this particular field. It's like saying, "This land is truly under God's care, and it cannot be returned to someone else." What does this mean practically? It’s a reminder of God's ownership: It emphasizes that God is in control of the land and its resources. It highlights responsibility: It calls upon people to be responsible stewards of the land, understanding that God’s blessing depends on respecting His ownership. It speaks about protection: The verse underlines that God will actively defend the land against harm, whether it's natural disasters or malicious actions. In short, this verse is a powerful statement about God's absolute ownership of the land and his commitment to protecting it. Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, we could: Discuss the context of this verse within the larger story of Israel’s relationship with the land. Explore its significance for those who work on or manage agricultural lands. Or maybe you have a specific question about it?

Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 27:21. It’s a really important part of understanding how God sees and handles certain animals – particularly cattle and sheep – and how it relates to worship. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse says that when animals are taken for sacrifice (brought into the temple), they must be treated as sacred and dedicated to God. Let’s unpack it further: “But the field, when it goeth out in the jubile…” – This is a fancy way of saying “when the animals are being brought to the temple.” "Jubilee" refers to a time period that started around 586 BC and lasted for about 43 years. Think of it as a special, blessed time. “…shall be holy unto the LORD…” – This is the core message: The field must be treated with reverence and respect. It's not just any field; it’s a sacred space. “as a field devoted; the possession thereof shall be the priest’s.” - This means that the priests (people who served God in the temple) have exclusive rights to take these animals for sacrifice. They are responsible for keeping them pure and dedicated to God. It's not just anyone who can bring an animal to the temple; only the priests are allowed. In a nutshell, this verse establishes a strict set of rules about how we treat animals used in worship. It’s a way for God to show his control and establish a proper relationship between humanity and creation. Why is it important? This principle was crucial for the Old Testament religious system. It emphasized that worship wasn't just about thinking about God; it was about doing things in a way that honored Him and demonstrated our devotion. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Leviticus? Discuss the significance of this verse within the broader context of Old Testament law? Give you some examples of how this principle is applied today (like in modern-day religious practices)?

Definition: And if [a man] sanctify unto the LORD a field which he hath bought, which [is] not of the fields of his possession;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 27:22. It’s a really important part of understanding how God sees our relationship with land and responsibility. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse says that if you dedicate a piece of land to God (the Lord) – meaning you make it holy for His use – you are obligated to care for it and not take anything from it. Let’s unpack it further: “Leviticus 27” : This is a section in the Old Testament Bible that deals with laws and rituals concerning the land. It's about how God expects us to treat the earth as His, and to be responsible for its care. “[a man] sanctify unto the LORD…” : This means “to dedicate” or "to make holy." It’s a fancy way of saying you’re dedicating this land to God. Think of it like setting something aside for a special purpose – in this case, a special relationship with God. “…a field which he hath bought…” : This is the key part. The verse specifically refers to land that has been purchased . It's not just any field; it’s land someone bought . “which [is] not of the fields of his possession” : This is the crucial part that ties it all together. It means this land cannot be used for things that belong to him personally. So, what does this mean practically? It's a reminder that we have a responsibility to use and care for God’s property – our land – with respect and gratitude. It encourages us to: Be careful not to take anything from it: Don't exploit it or waste its resources. Treat it as a gift of God: Recognize that this land is given to God, and we should honor Him through responsible stewardship. Care for it wisely: Think about how to use the land in a way that benefits both us and God. In essence, it's a call to recognize our connection to the earth and to treat it with reverence. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further? Give an example of what this might look like in practice? Connect it to another Bible passage or concept?

Definition: Then the priest shall reckon unto him the worth of thy estimation, [even] unto the year of the jubile: and he shall give thine estimation in that day, [as] a holy thing unto the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 27:23. It’s a really important part of understanding how God sees things and what He considers valuable. Here's a simple explanation: Basically, it means: “The priest will carefully measure your value – essentially how much you’re worth – and give it to the LORD on a specific day, as a special, sacred thing.” Let's unpack that a bit more: "Then the priest shall reckon unto him..." : This is saying the priest (a religious official) will be responsible for assessing your worth. "...even [as] unto the year of the jubile:" This is where it gets interesting! “Year of the Jubil” refers to a significant, joyous occasion – probably a harvest festival or celebration. It’s a really big deal in Jewish tradition. So, the priest is counting something over a long period of time, tied to this special event. "...and he shall give thine estimation in that day, [as] a holy thing unto the LORD." This is the core of the verse. The priest isn't just giving you a number; He's assigning your worth – a specific value – and putting it into a place that’s considered important to God. It’s like saying, "This is how much you are valued by God." And this “day” (the year of the Jubil) is seen as a time of great importance and reverence. What does this all mean in a broader sense? Historically, this verse was understood to be about: God’s Perspective: It shows that God values people based on their actions and how they treat Him. Sacredness: Giving your worth to the LORD means you are being treated with special importance – a sign of reverence and trust. Responsibility: The priest is acting as a steward, managing your value within a specific context. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted in light of the Old Testament's focus on ritual and sacrifice. However, it also speaks to God’s ultimate concern for humanity and His plan for redemption. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these concepts further? Give you a quick example of how this verse might be used in a story or analogy?

Definition: In the year of the jubile the field shall return unto him of whom it was bought, [even] to him to whom the possession of the land [did belong].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 27:24. It's a pretty complex idea, but here’s a simplified explanation: Basically, this verse talks about returning land and animals back to God. Here’s a breakdown of what it means in simpler terms: “In the year of the jubile…” – This is a fancy way of saying "the year of Jubilee." The Jubilee was a historical event in ancient Israel, often lasting 7 years. It was a time of release and restoration after a period of hardship or injustice. Think of it as a reset. “…the field shall return unto him…” – This means the land that was owned by a person (or family) is returning to God. It’s like a promise back from the owner to the land itself. “[even] to him to whom the possession of the land [did belong].” – This is the key part! It's saying that the land is being returned to the person who originally owned it . The word "possession" means ownership and control. So, this verse emphasizes that God is returning the land back to the original owner – a clear acknowledgement of their right to own and use the land. In short, it’s about restoring ownership and giving back what was taken. What does this have to do with us? This verse is important because it highlights the idea that God values ownership and gives back. It emphasizes that we are all under God's care and that we should respect His rights over things. It’s a reminder of our responsibility to those who own land, and it speaks to a bigger concept of justice and restoration. Does this make sense? Do you want me to: Explain any specific part in more detail? Give you some examples of how this verse applies today?

Definition: And all thy estimations shall be according to the shekel of the sanctuary: twenty gerahs shall be the shekel.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 27:25. It's a really important part of understanding how God saw the Jewish people and their relationship with money and labor. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse says that when you give gifts or offer sacrifices to God, you should give them in exact amounts based on a standardized system. Let’s unpack it further: “And all thy estimations shall be according to the shekel of the sanctuary” : This is a key phrase. “Shekel” was the Jewish word for a small amount of money – roughly equivalent to 1 silver-coin. “Sanctuary” refers to the Temple in Jerusalem, which was where God lived and performed his work. So, this means that giving should be done with precision and according to a set standard. It’s about being accurate with your offerings. “Twenty gerahs shall be the shekel.” : This is the crucial part! “Gerah” is a Hebrew unit of measurement – roughly equivalent to 1/10th of a silver-coin. So, "twenty gerahs" means that each gift or offering should be worth 20 silver-coins. So, what was the purpose of this rule? It’s about honoring God and keeping his laws. The Jewish people were instructed to give gifts to God in a very specific way – with precision and according to a set standard. This wasn't just about giving money; it was about demonstrating reverence and acknowledging God’s authority. It was a way of showing that they were following God’s instructions perfectly. In essence, this verse emphasizes: Religious Precision: Giving offerings was not arbitrary – it had to be done correctly according to divine law. Order and Structure: It created a structured system for worship and giving, reflecting the importance of God's presence in the world. Important Note: This is from an ancient text – the Old Testament. It’s been interpreted differently over time, but it’s generally understood to be about honoring God through accurate measurement and offering. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of this verse in more detail? (e.g., its historical context?) Provide some examples of what these "gerahs" might have been used for?

Definition: Only the firstling of the beasts, which should be the LORD’S firstling, no man shall sanctify it; whether [it be] ox, or sheep: it [is] the LORD’S.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 27:26. It's a really important and slightly surprising passage about how we should treat animals – especially livestock. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: “Only the firstling of the beasts is permitted to be sanctified – meaning treated with special respect and reverence – by the LORD.” Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Only the firstling of the beasts…” This means that when we’re dealing with an animal, like a cow or sheep, its first part of its life is meant to be treated as holy. It’s not meant to be used for sacrifice or special treatment like the rest of the animal. “…which should be the LORD’s firstling…” This is the key phrase. The “firstling” refers to an animal that was born and raised, but isn't yet fully dedicated to serving God. It’s an animal that wasn’t specifically used for sacrifice or a special offering. It’s a more humble, less "used" animal. “No man shall sanctify it…” This is a direct command from the Lord – He wants us to treat this animal with respect and avoid any kind of special treatment. “…whether [it be] ox, or sheep: it [is] the LORD’s.” This reinforces that it's specifically for the Lord. It’s not about giving an animal a special privilege – it’s about acknowledging God's ownership and authority over these animals. What does this mean practically? Historically, this verse was a crucial part of Jewish law. It meant that when you were raising a lamb or goat, you were to treat it with reverence as if it were the Lord’s firstling. It symbolized a recognition that the animal was created for God’s purpose and wasn't meant to be used solely for human benefit. Why is this important? It highlights the holiness of animals: It shows that God sees animals as sacred and worthy of respect, not just as commodities. It emphasizes obedience: It’s a command to follow God’s will, showing humility and reverence. It connects with our relationship with God: The verse reminds us that we are part of the creation, and we should treat all creatures with consideration and gratitude. In short, Leviticus 27:26 is a beautiful reminder that when we interact with animals, we're honoring God’s ownership and purpose. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Connect it to a specific theme in the Bible (like holiness or stewardship)?

Definition: And if [it be] of an unclean beast, then he shall redeem [it] according to thine estimation, and shall add a fifth [part] of it thereto: or if it be not redeemed, then it shall be sold according to thy estimation.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 27:27. It's a pretty serious passage about animals and how we treat them. Here’s the explanation in simple terms: Basically, this verse says that if an animal becomes contaminated or is "unclean" – meaning it’s not pure – then it needs to be dealt with differently. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And if [it be] of unclean beast…” : This means any animal that's considered dirty, tainted, or has a problem. This isn't about just dirt; it’s often related to something that makes the animal unhealthy or offensive. Think of it as a spiritual “bad” thing happening to the animal. “…then he shall redeem [it] according to thine estimation…” : This is where it gets interesting. "Redeem" in this context means to make it better, clean up its situation, and potentially even restore it back to a usable state. It's like offering a remedy or forgiveness. “According to thine estimation” means the person doing the redeeming decides how much of the animal they’ll keep and what they’ll do with the rest. “…and shall add a fifth [part] of it thereto:” : This is a crucial part. It's saying that the person dealing with the unclean animal will take five times as much of it as it originally was. This represents a loss – a sacrifice or something being taken away. “or if it be not redeemed, then it shall be sold according to thy estimation.” : If the animal can't be saved (it’s truly unclean), then the person has the right to sell it for a price they determine based on their own judgment and value. It’s like saying, "Since it's not good enough, we need to give it away." In simpler terms: This verse is about taking responsibility for things that are considered impure or unhealthy. It’s a way of acknowledging that sometimes, things aren’t perfect and need to be handled with care to protect our health and well-being. Why is this important in the Old Testament? This passage was part of a larger system of laws designed to maintain holiness and purity within the Jewish community. It emphasized respect for God's creation and protecting it from things that could cause harm or offense. It was a way of showing reverence and acknowledging our responsibility as stewards of the land. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give an example of how this principle might be applied today (e.g., food safety)?

Definition: Notwithstanding no devoted thing, that a man shall devote unto the LORD of all that he hath, [both] of man and beast, and of the field of his possession, shall be sold or redeemed: every devoted thing [is] most holy unto the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 27:28. It's a really important passage about how we should treat God’s possessions – land, animals, and even things in our homes. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that everything you own – whether it's land, livestock, or even your own possessions – is considered holy to God. It’s a strong statement about reverence and respect for God's ownership. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Notwithstanding no devoted thing…” : This means "even though..." or “despite…” “…that a man shall devote unto the LORD of all that he hath…” : This is the core of the verse. It's saying, “Even your everything – everything you own – should be given to God.” “both [both] of man and beast…” : This tells us it applies to both humans (people) and animals. “…and of the field of his possession…” : This means "your land, your livestock, and even what’s in your home." "...shall be sold or redeemed:” : This is the key part. It means “you must not sell or redeem anything that belongs to God.” “every devoted thing [is] most holy unto the LORD” : This is the big takeaway. "Most holy" means “very pure” or “blessed”. It’s a strong statement about how important it is to honor and worship God by treating his possessions with respect and not taking them for personal gain. In simpler terms: Think of it like this: You should always treat your belongings as gifts to God. Don't try to keep everything for yourself, because God has the right to use and possess everything that belongs to him. It’s about recognizing that God is in control and deserves our respect and reverence. Why is this important? This verse helps us understand: God’s Sovereignty: It emphasizes that God owns everything, and we need to recognize this as a sign of His power and authority. Respect for Property: It teaches us to be responsible stewards of our possessions. Humility: It encourages humility – recognizing that we are small in the eyes of God and should treat him with respect. Do you want me to explain any part of this verse further? For example, I can talk about: The context of this verse within the larger story of the Old Testament. What it means for us as individuals.