Leviticus 27:29 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 27:29 mean?

Leviticus 27:29 states that if a person is "devoted" to destruction by people, that person cannot be redeemed or bought back, but must be put to death. This verse sets a strict rule that certain vows or dedications to God, especially those involving judgment, are final and cannot be reversed.

In context, God is giving Moses instructions for the Israelites about vows and dedications. The verse refers to a specific situation where someone has been set apart for destruction—often because of a serious offense or as part of a judicial sentence. The language makes clear that once this kind of devotion is made, there is no way to undo it or substitute something else for the person.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 27:29

• "devoted" (חֵרֶם, ḥērem): This word means something set apart, often for destruction or for God alone. In this verse, it refers to a person who has been completely given over, usually as a result of a serious crime or curse.
• "devoted" (חָרַם, ḥāram): The verb form means to ban, devote, or utterly destroy. It emphasizes the total and irreversible nature of the act.
• "redeemed" (פָּדָה, pādāh): This word means to buy back or rescue. The verse stresses that there is no possibility of this for someone under a ḥērem.
• "surely...death" (מוֹת יוּמָת, mōt yūmāt): This phrase doubles the word for death, making it emphatic—death is absolutely required in this case.

Why Leviticus 27:29 matters

• This verse clarifies that not all dedications or vows could be undone with a payment; some were absolute, especially those involving judgment or punishment.
• Leviticus 27:29 highlights the seriousness of certain offenses and the finality of some decisions made before God in ancient Israel.
• The verse connects to the larger chapter, which deals with vows and dedications, by showing that there are limits to what can be redeemed or substituted, especially when it comes to matters of justice.