In the biblical context, "devoted things" refers to items or persons that are set apart for destruction or consecration to the Lord. The concept is primarily found in the Old Testament, where it is associated with the Hebrew term "herem," meaning something that is banned, devoted, or dedicated to God, often through destruction.

Old Testament Context

The principle of devoted things is first introduced in the Pentateuch. In Leviticus 27:28-29 , it is stated: "But nothing that a man sets apart to the LORD from all he owns—whether a man, an animal, or his inherited land—can be sold or redeemed; everything so devoted is most holy to the LORD. No person set apart for destruction may be ransomed; he must surely be put to death." This passage underscores the irrevocable nature of things devoted to God, emphasizing their sanctity and the seriousness of the vow.

The concept is further illustrated in the conquest narratives of the Book of Joshua. In Joshua 6:17-19 , the city of Jericho and all that is in it are declared "devoted to the LORD." The Israelites are commanded to destroy everything in the city except for Rahab and her family, who are spared due to her faithfulness. The silver, gold, and articles of bronze and iron are to be consecrated to the Lord and placed in His treasury. This demonstrates the dual aspect of devoted things: destruction for the purpose of purging evil and consecration for the purpose of honoring God.

Achan's Sin

A significant narrative involving devoted things is the sin of Achan, found in Joshua 7. Achan violated the command concerning devoted things by taking some of the items from Jericho for himself. As a result, Israel faced defeat at Ai, and God's anger burned against them. Joshua 7:11 records God's words: "Israel has sinned; they have transgressed My covenant that I commanded them. They have taken some of what was devoted to destruction; they have stolen, lied, and put these things with their own possessions." Achan's sin and its consequences highlight the seriousness with which God views the violation of devoted things, as well as the communal impact of individual disobedience.

Theological Significance

The concept of devoted things serves as a reminder of God's holiness and the call for His people to be set apart. It underscores the importance of obedience and the need for purity among God's people. The irrevocable nature of devoted things reflects the seriousness of vows made to God and the expectation of complete devotion and surrender to His will.

New Testament Reflection

While the New Testament does not explicitly use the term "devoted things," the principle of being set apart for God continues. Believers are called to be living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1). The idea of being devoted to God is transformed from physical objects and destruction to a spiritual dedication of one's life to Christ.

In summary, devoted things in the Bible represent a profound commitment to God, requiring complete obedience and reflecting His holiness. The narratives surrounding devoted things serve as both a warning and an encouragement for believers to live lives fully consecrated to the Lord.