Leviticus 27:9

If he vows an animal that may be brought as an offering to the LORD, any such animal given to the LORD shall be holy.

Study Bible

If he vows
The Hebrew root for "vows" is נדר (nadar), which signifies a solemn promise or commitment made to God. In ancient Israel, vows were taken seriously as they represented a binding agreement with the divine. This reflects the deep sense of responsibility and reverence the Israelites had towards their relationship with God. Vows were not to be made lightly, as they were a form of worship and dedication.

an animal
The term for "animal" in Hebrew is בהמה (behemah), which generally refers to domesticated animals. In the context of Leviticus, animals were often used in sacrificial offerings, symbolizing the worshiper's devotion and atonement. The choice of an animal for a vow underscores the tangible and sacrificial nature of worship in the Old Testament, where offerings were a central part of religious life.

that may be brought as an offering
The phrase "brought as an offering" indicates the purpose of the animal within the sacrificial system. The Hebrew word for "offering" is קרבן (korban), meaning something brought near to God. This highlights the concept of drawing closer to the divine through acts of sacrifice and devotion. Offerings were a means of expressing gratitude, seeking forgiveness, and maintaining a covenant relationship with God.

to the LORD
The name "LORD" in this context is the tetragrammaton יהוה (YHWH), the sacred and personal name of God revealed to Moses. It signifies the covenantal relationship between God and Israel. The use of this name emphasizes the personal and direct nature of the vow, as it is made to the one true God who delivered Israel from Egypt and established them as His people.

any such animal that he gives
The act of giving in Hebrew is נתן (natan), which implies a voluntary and intentional act of offering. This reflects the heart of worship, where the giver willingly dedicates something of value to God. The emphasis on "any such animal" suggests that the vow must be fulfilled with the specific animal promised, underscoring the integrity and faithfulness required in worship.

to the LORD will be holy
The word "holy" in Hebrew is קדש (qodesh), meaning set apart or consecrated. Once an animal is vowed and given to the LORD, it becomes sacred and dedicated solely for divine purposes. This transformation from common to holy illustrates the sanctifying power of God's claim over what is offered to Him. It serves as a reminder of the holiness required in approaching God and the reverence due to Him in all acts of worship.

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

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, to whom the offerings and vows are made.

4. The Tabernacle
The place where offerings were brought and presented to the LORD.

5. Vows and Offerings
The specific context of Leviticus 27, dealing with the dedication of animals to God.

Teaching Points

The Holiness of Offerings
When an animal is vowed to the LORD, it becomes holy, set apart for God's purposes. This underscores the sacredness of our commitments to God.

The Seriousness of Vows
Making a vow to God is a serious matter. It requires careful consideration and a commitment to follow through, reflecting our integrity and faithfulness.

Dedication to God
Just as animals were dedicated to God, we are called to dedicate our lives to Him, living in a way that honors and glorifies Him.

The Cost of Worship
True worship involves sacrifice and giving up something valuable. This principle challenges us to consider what we are willing to offer to God in our lives.

Spiritual Sacrifices
In the New Testament context, we are called to offer spiritual sacrifices, such as our time, talents, and resources, as acts of worship and service to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does it mean for an animal to be "holy" when vowed to the LORD, and how can this concept apply to our lives today?

2. How do the instructions in Leviticus 27:9 reflect the broader biblical theme of dedication and holiness?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our commitments to God are made thoughtfully and fulfilled faithfully?

4. How does the concept of offering and sacrifice in Leviticus relate to the New Testament call to be living sacrifices?

5. What are some practical ways we can dedicate our resources and talents to God in our daily lives, reflecting the spirit of Levitical offerings?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 30
Discusses the importance and binding nature of vows made to the LORD, emphasizing the seriousness of making and fulfilling vows.

Deuteronomy 23:21-23
Reinforces the obligation to fulfill vows made to God, highlighting the importance of integrity and faithfulness.

Psalm 50:14
Encourages offering thanksgiving and fulfilling vows to God, connecting the act of offering with worship and gratitude.

Ecclesiastes 5:4-5
Warns against making rash vows and the importance of fulfilling them, underscoring the theme of accountability before God.

Romans 12:1
Calls believers to present themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel between Old Testament offerings and New Testament spiritual worship.