Leviticus 27:2 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 27:2 mean?

Leviticus 27:2 instructs Moses to tell the Israelites that when someone makes a special vow, dedicating a person to the LORD, the value of that person is to be determined by a set estimation. This verse introduces rules for how people could dedicate themselves or others to God through a formal promise, with a specific value assigned for redemption.

In this setting, God is giving Moses directions for the Israelites about making vows, especially those involving people. The context is about voluntary promises made to God, often as acts of devotion or gratitude. The verse sets up a system where such vows are not just spiritual but have a practical, monetary aspect, which is explained in the following verses.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 27:2

• The word "singular" is פָּלָא (pala, H6381), which often means "extraordinary" or "special." Here, it highlights that the vow is not ordinary but set apart in some way.
• The word "vow" is נֶדֶר (neder, H5088), meaning a solemn promise or dedication, usually made voluntarily to God.
• "Estimation" is עֵרֶךְ (erekh, H6187), referring to an assigned value or assessment, which is important because it turns a spiritual act into something with a concrete, redeemable value.

Why Leviticus 27:2 matters

• This verse clarifies that vows in ancient Israel could involve dedicating people, not just objects or animals, and that such vows were taken seriously enough to require a formal valuation.
• The use of "singular" (pala) shows that these vows were considered special acts, not everyday promises, setting them apart as significant spiritual commitments.
• Leviticus 27:2 sets the stage for the rest of the chapter, which details how these valuations work, showing the practical side of religious devotion in Israelite law.