Leviticus 27:27

But if it is among the unclean animals, then he may redeem it according to your valuation and add a fifth of its value. If it is not redeemed, then it shall be sold according to your valuation.

Study Bible

But if it is among the unclean animals
In the context of Leviticus, "unclean animals" refers to those that were not permissible for consumption or sacrifice according to the Mosaic Law. The Hebrew word for "unclean" is "טָמֵא" (tamei), which signifies ritual impurity. This distinction between clean and unclean animals is rooted in the holiness code, emphasizing the separation between the sacred and the profane. Historically, this separation served to set the Israelites apart from surrounding nations, reinforcing their identity as God's chosen people.

he may redeem it
The concept of "redeem" in Hebrew is "גָּאַל" (ga'al), meaning to buy back or reclaim. Redemption is a central theme in the Bible, symbolizing God's deliverance of His people. In this context, it refers to the ability to reclaim an unclean animal by paying its assessed value. This act of redemption reflects God's grace, allowing for restoration and reconciliation, even for what is deemed unclean.

according to your valuation
The term "valuation" in Hebrew is "עֶרְכָּךְ" (erkah), which involves an assessment or estimation of worth. This valuation was determined by the priest, ensuring fairness and adherence to divine standards. It underscores the importance of integrity and justice in financial and spiritual matters, reminding believers of the need for honesty and accountability in their dealings.

adding a fifth of the value
The requirement to add "a fifth" (or 20%) to the value is a principle seen elsewhere in Levitical law, symbolizing restitution and the cost of redemption. This additional payment serves as a reminder of the seriousness of vows and the need for sincerity in one's commitments to God. It also reflects the biblical principle that redemption often comes at a cost, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ for humanity's redemption.

if he does not redeem it
This phrase presents an alternative to redemption, highlighting the freedom of choice in the matter. The decision not to redeem signifies a relinquishment of ownership, allowing the animal to be sold. This choice reflects the broader biblical theme of free will, where individuals are given the autonomy to make decisions, bearing the consequences of their actions.

it shall be sold at your valuation
The sale of the unredeemed animal "at your valuation" ensures that the transaction is conducted fairly and in accordance with the established valuation. This process maintains the integrity of the community's economic and spiritual life, emphasizing the importance of adhering to God's standards. It serves as a reminder that all aspects of life, including commerce, are under God's sovereign rule and should be conducted in a manner that honors Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
- The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God to instruct the Israelites.

2. Israelites
- The people to whom the laws in Leviticus were given, guiding their worship and daily living.

3. Unclean Animals
- Animals considered ceremonially unclean according to the Mosaic Law, which could not be offered as sacrifices.

4. Priests
- The individuals responsible for overseeing the valuation and redemption process as described in the law.

5. Tabernacle
- The place where offerings and sacrifices were made, central to the worship practices of the Israelites.

Teaching Points

Understanding Redemption
The concept of redemption in Leviticus 27:27 illustrates the broader biblical theme of redemption, where something unclean or unworthy is made valuable through a price paid. This foreshadows the ultimate redemption through Christ.

Valuation and Worth
The process of valuation and adding a fifth to the value signifies the importance of recognizing worth and the cost of redemption. It teaches us to consider the value God places on redemption and the cost of sin.

Holiness and Separation
The distinction between clean and unclean animals underscores the call for holiness and separation from sin. As believers, we are called to live lives set apart for God.

Stewardship and Responsibility
The requirement to redeem or sell unclean animals reflects the responsibility of stewardship. We are called to manage what God has entrusted to us with integrity and according to His principles.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of redeeming unclean animals in Leviticus 27:27 reflect the broader biblical theme of redemption?

2. In what ways does the valuation process in this verse teach us about the cost of sin and the value of redemption?

3. How can the principles of holiness and separation from unclean things in Leviticus apply to our lives today as Christians?

4. What does the requirement to add a fifth to the value when redeeming an unclean animal teach us about God's expectations for stewardship and responsibility?

5. How does the redemption of unclean animals in the Old Testament point forward to the ultimate redemption found in Jesus Christ, as described in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 11
This chapter outlines the laws regarding clean and unclean animals, providing context for understanding the significance of unclean animals in Leviticus 27:27.

Numbers 18:15-17
Discusses the redemption of the firstborn, which parallels the concept of redeeming unclean animals.

Hebrews 9:13-14
Connects the Old Testament sacrificial system to the ultimate redemption through Christ, highlighting the insufficiency of animal sacrifices for true purification.