Leviticus 27:31 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 27:31 mean?

Leviticus 27:31 explains that if someone wants to buy back (redeem) any part of what they have set aside as tithes, they must pay the value of that portion plus an extra fifth (20%) of its value. This rule makes sure that redeeming tithes comes with a clear added cost.

In this verse, God is giving instructions to the Israelites through Moses about handling tithes—portions of crops or produce dedicated to God. The context is about vows and offerings, and this specific rule addresses what happens if someone needs to reclaim what they had promised as a tithe, ensuring the process is fair and discouraging people from treating their commitments lightly.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 27:31

• "Redeem" (גָּאַל, ga'al): This word means to buy back or reclaim something that was given or set apart. Here, it refers to someone wanting to take back part of their tithe for personal use.
• "Tithes" (מַעֲשֵׂר, ma'aser): This word means a tenth part, usually of crops or produce, set aside for God. The verse is specifically about these offerings.
• "Add" (יָסַף, yasaf): This word means to increase or add to. The instruction is to add a fifth to the value when redeeming tithes.
• "Fifth" (חֲמִשִּׁית, chamishit): This word means one-fifth, or 20%. The verse requires this extra amount to be paid as a penalty or surcharge when redeeming tithes.

Why Leviticus 27:31 matters

• This verse clarifies that tithes were not just voluntary gifts but carried binding commitments, and redeeming them involved a real cost.
• The extra fifth discourages people from making vows or dedicating tithes lightly, adding seriousness to their promises.
• This rule fits into the larger context of Leviticus 27, which deals with vows and things dedicated to God, showing that what is promised to God is to be treated with respect and not reclaimed casually.