Leviticus 27:33

He must not inspect whether it is good or bad, and he shall not make any substitution. But if he does make a substitution, both the animal and its substitute shall become holy; they cannot be redeemed.'"

Study Bible

He must not inspect
The phrase "He must not inspect" refers to the prohibition against evaluating the quality of the animal being tithed. In the Hebrew context, the word used here implies a deliberate examination or scrutiny. This command underscores the principle of impartiality and trust in God's provision. The Israelites were to offer what was due without attempting to manipulate or alter the offering based on personal judgment. This reflects a broader biblical theme of faith and obedience, where believers are called to trust in God's sovereignty rather than rely on their own understanding.

whether it is good or bad
This phrase emphasizes the irrelevance of the animal's condition in the context of the tithe. The Hebrew words for "good" (טוֹב, tov) and "bad" (רַע, ra) are often used to describe moral and physical qualities. Here, they highlight that the value of the offering is not determined by human standards but by the act of obedience itself. This teaching aligns with the biblical principle that God values the heart and intention behind the offering more than the material quality, as seen in the account of the widow's mite (Mark 12:41-44).

nor shall he make any substitution
The prohibition against substitution underscores the importance of integrity in worship. The Hebrew root for "substitution" (חָלִיף, chalif) suggests an exchange or replacement. This command prevents the temptation to offer something less valuable or less desirable in place of what was originally designated. It serves as a reminder that offerings to God should be given with sincerity and without deceit, reflecting a heart fully devoted to Him.

But if he does make a substitution
This conditional clause acknowledges human fallibility and the possibility of disobedience. It serves as a warning that any attempt to circumvent God's command will not succeed. The structure of this clause in Hebrew suggests a hypothetical situation, emphasizing the seriousness of adhering to God's instructions. It reflects the biblical theme of accountability, where actions have consequences, and God's standards are not to be taken lightly.

both the animal and its substitute shall become holy
The declaration that both the original animal and its substitute become holy highlights the inviolability of what is consecrated to God. The Hebrew word for "holy" (קָדוֹשׁ, kadosh) signifies something set apart for divine purposes. This principle reinforces the idea that once something is dedicated to God, it cannot be reclaimed for secular use. It serves as a powerful reminder of the sanctity of offerings and the seriousness of vows made to God.

they cannot be redeemed
The final phrase, "they cannot be redeemed," indicates that once an offering is made, it cannot be bought back or exchanged. The Hebrew concept of redemption (גָּאַל, ga'al) involves reclaiming something through payment. This stipulation underscores the irrevocable nature of commitments made to God. It reflects the broader biblical narrative of redemption, where God's promises and covenants are binding and eternal. This teaching encourages believers to approach their commitments to God with reverence and sincerity, recognizing the lasting impact of their devotion.

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. Israelites
The recipients of the Levitical laws, including the instructions on tithes and offerings.

3. God
The divine lawgiver who established the covenant with Israel and provided these laws to guide their worship and community life.

4. Tithing
The practice of giving a tenth of one's produce or livestock as an offering to God, as outlined in Leviticus 27.

5. Substitution
The act of replacing one animal with another in the context of offerings, which is specifically addressed in this verse.

Teaching Points

The Principle of Holiness
The verse underscores the holiness of what is dedicated to God. Once something is set apart for God, it is considered holy and cannot be redeemed or substituted. This teaches us about the seriousness of our commitments to God.

Integrity in Worship
The prohibition against inspecting or substituting animals for offerings highlights the importance of integrity in our worship. We are called to give our best to God without trying to manipulate or alter our offerings for personal gain.

Trust in God's Provision
By not allowing substitutions, God teaches His people to trust in His provision. We are reminded to rely on God's sufficiency rather than our own understanding or resources.

The Consequences of Disobedience
The stipulation that both the original and substitute animals become holy if a substitution is attempted serves as a warning against disobedience. It illustrates that our actions have consequences, and we must adhere to God's commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of holiness in Leviticus 27:33 apply to our lives today, particularly in how we dedicate our time and resources to God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship and offerings to God are given with integrity and sincerity?

3. How does the prohibition against substitution in this verse challenge us to trust in God's provision rather than our own plans?

4. What are some modern-day examples of attempting to "substitute" in our spiritual lives, and how can we avoid these pitfalls?

5. How do the teachings on tithing and offerings in Leviticus 27:33 connect with Jesus' teachings in the New Testament, and what practical steps can we take to align our giving with these principles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Malachi 3:10
This verse discusses the importance of bringing the full tithe into the storehouse, emphasizing the blessings that follow obedience to God's commands regarding tithes.

Hebrews 7:5-9
These verses reference the Levitical priesthood and the practice of tithing, drawing connections between the Old Testament laws and the New Testament understanding of giving.

Matthew 23:23
Jesus speaks to the Pharisees about tithing, highlighting the need for justice, mercy, and faithfulness alongside the practice of tithing.