Question 1

What does Leviticus 27:30 mean?

Accepted Answer

Leviticus 27:30 says that a tenth part (a tithe) of everything produced from the land—whether crops or fruit—belongs to the LORD and is considered holy, meaning it is set apart for God. This verse establishes that what comes from the land is not entirely for personal use; a portion is to be given to God as something sacred. In Leviticus, God is speaking to the Israelites through Moses, giving detailed instructions about vows and offerings. This verse comes near the end of the book, summarizing how the people should treat the produce of the land. The idea is that the land’s yield is ultimately God’s gift, and returning a portion acknowledges God’s ownership and provision.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 27:30

Accepted Answer

מַעֲשֵׂר (ma‘ăsēr, "tithe"): This word refers specifically to a tenth part. The use of this term makes it clear that the command is not about a general offering, but a precise, set portion. קָדוֹשׁ (qādôsh, "holy"): This word means something set apart or dedicated to God. Calling the tithe "holy" emphasizes that it is not ordinary property, but belongs to God in a special way. יְהוָה (YHWH, "the LORD"): The verse repeats that the tithe is the LORD’s, underlining that the ultimate owner of the land’s produce is God, not the people.

Question 3

Why Leviticus 27:30 matters

Accepted Answer

Leviticus 27:30 clarifies that the tithe is not a voluntary gift, but a required portion that is already considered God’s property. By calling the tithe "holy," the verse stresses that giving it is not just a transaction but a sacred act, setting apart what is God’s from what is for personal use. This verse connects to the broader theme in Leviticus of holiness and separation, showing that even everyday things like crops and fruit are part of Israel’s relationship with God.

Leviticus 27:30 (KJV)