Consecration in the biblical context refers to the act of setting apart a person, object, or place for a sacred purpose. This concept is deeply rooted in the Old Testament and carries significant theological implications throughout the Scriptures. The Hebrew word often translated as "consecrate" is "qadash," which means to sanctify, dedicate, or make holy.

In the Old Testament, consecration is prominently featured in the rituals and laws given to the Israelites. For instance, the consecration of the priests is detailed in Exodus 29, where Aaron and his sons are set apart for priestly service. The process involved washing, anointing with oil, and offering sacrifices. Exodus 29:9 states, "So you shall put the turbans on their heads and tie sashes around the waists of Aaron and his sons. The priesthood is to be theirs by a permanent statute. In this way you shall ordain Aaron and his sons."

Consecration also extends to objects and places. The Tabernacle and its furnishings were consecrated for worship, as described in Exodus 40:9-10 : "Take the anointing oil and anoint the tabernacle and everything in it; consecrate it and all its furnishings, and it will be holy. Anoint the altar of burnt offering and all its utensils; consecrate the altar, and it will be most holy."

In the New Testament, the concept of consecration is fulfilled and expanded through Jesus Christ. Believers are called to consecrate themselves to God, living lives that reflect their holy calling. Romans 12:1 exhorts, "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship."

Consecration is thus both an act and a state of being, where individuals and communities dedicate themselves wholly to God's service, reflecting His holiness in their lives.

Valuation

Valuation in the biblical sense often pertains to the assessment of worth, particularly in the context of vows and offerings. The concept is primarily found in the Old Testament, where specific guidelines are provided for valuing persons, animals, and property dedicated to the Lord.

Leviticus 27 provides detailed instructions on the valuation of persons who are vowed to the Lord. The valuation is based on age and gender, reflecting the economic and social context of ancient Israel. Leviticus 27:2-3 states, "Speak to the Israelites and say, 'When a man makes a special vow to the LORD involving the valuation of persons, if the valuation concerns a male from twenty to sixty years of age, then your valuation shall be fifty shekels of silver, according to the sanctuary shekel.'"

The chapter also addresses the valuation of animals and property. Clean animals that could be offered as sacrifices were considered holy and could not be redeemed. Unclean animals, however, could be redeemed by paying their assessed value plus an additional fifth. Leviticus 27:11-13 explains, "If what he vowed is an unclean animal that cannot be offered as an offering to the LORD, the animal must be presented before the priest, who will set its value, whether high or low. As the priest values it, so it will be. If the owner wishes to redeem the animal, he must add a fifth to its value."

Valuation underscores the principle of stewardship and the recognition of God's sovereignty over all possessions. It reflects the seriousness of vows made to God and the importance of fulfilling them with integrity. The New Testament echoes this principle, emphasizing the heart's intent and the spirit of generosity in giving, as seen in 2 Corinthians 9:7 : "Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver."

In both consecration and valuation, the underlying theme is the acknowledgment of God's holiness and the believer's response in devotion and stewardship.