Leviticus 27:7

And if the person is sixty years of age or older, then your valuation shall be fifteen shekels for the male and ten shekels for the female.

Study Bible

And if the person is sixty years old or older
This phrase sets the context for the valuation of individuals dedicated to the Lord, as described in Leviticus 27. The age of sixty is significant in ancient Israelite culture, often marking a transition into elder status. In Hebrew, the word for "sixty" is "שִׁשִּׁים" (shishim), which is derived from the root word for six, "שֵׁשׁ" (shesh). This age signifies wisdom and experience, and the valuation reflects a recognition of the diminished physical capacity for labor, yet an increased value in terms of wisdom and counsel.

then your valuation shall be fifteen shekels for a male
The "valuation" here refers to the monetary worth assigned to a person dedicated to God, as part of a vow. The "shekel" was a standard unit of weight and currency in ancient Israel, approximately 11.4 grams of silver. The Hebrew word for shekel is "שֶׁקֶל" (shekel), which is rooted in the concept of weighing or measuring. The valuation of fifteen shekels for a male over sixty reflects a reduced economic value compared to younger, more physically able individuals, yet it still acknowledges the inherent worth of the person in the eyes of God.

and ten shekels for a female
The valuation for a female over sixty is set at ten shekels. This reflects the cultural and economic realities of ancient Israel, where men were often seen as the primary laborers. However, it is crucial to understand this within the context of the time, where the roles of men and women were distinct, yet both were valued in the community. The difference in valuation is not a statement of intrinsic worth but rather a reflection of societal roles and economic contributions. The Hebrew word for ten is "עֶשֶׂר" (eser), symbolizing completeness and order, suggesting that even in their elder years, women held a complete and integral role within the community.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God on Mount Sinai. He was responsible for conveying God's instructions to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The people to whom the laws in Leviticus were given. They were God's chosen people, living under the covenant established at Sinai.

3. Valuation
A system of assigning monetary value to individuals who were dedicated to the Lord, based on age and gender, as part of a vow or offering.

4. Shekel
The unit of currency used in ancient Israel, which was a standard measure for transactions and valuations.

5. Tabernacle
The place where offerings and vows were made, serving as the central place of worship for the Israelites.

Teaching Points

Understanding Value in God's Eyes
The valuation system in Leviticus reflects the intrinsic value God places on each individual, regardless of age or gender. It reminds us that everyone has a role and purpose in God's plan.

Commitment and Dedication
The act of dedicating oneself or others to God, as seen in Leviticus, calls us to consider our own commitments to God. Are we fully dedicated in our time, resources, and talents?

Equality and Fairness
While the valuations differ, the system underscores a sense of fairness and order in the community. It prompts us to consider how we value others in our own communities and ensure fairness in our dealings.

Stewardship of Resources
The specific valuations remind us of the importance of being good stewards of our resources, dedicating them to God's work and purposes.

Aging and Wisdom
The reduced valuation for older individuals can be seen as a recognition of their wisdom and experience, rather than a decrease in worth. It encourages us to honor and learn from the elderly in our communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of valuation in Leviticus 27:7 challenge or affirm your understanding of personal worth in God's eyes?

2. In what ways can you dedicate your resources (time, talents, finances) to God's service, similar to the dedication described in Leviticus?

3. How does the principle of fairness in the valuation system apply to your interactions and relationships within your community?

4. Reflect on a time when you have seen the wisdom of older individuals valued in your church or community. How can you contribute to honoring and learning from them?

5. Considering 1 Corinthians 6, how does understanding that you were "bought with a price" influence your daily walk with Christ and your dedication to Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30
Discusses the census tax, which also involves a valuation of individuals, emphasizing the importance of each person's contribution to the community.

Numbers 18
Details the support of the Levites through offerings, connecting to the idea of dedicating resources to God's service.

1 Corinthians 6
Paul speaks about believers being bought with a price, which can be related to the concept of valuation and dedication to God.