Question 1

What does Leviticus 27:31 mean?

Accepted Answer

Leviticus 27:31 says that if someone wants to buy back any part of their tithes—produce or goods they had set aside for God—they must pay back the value plus an extra one-fifth (20%). This rule made sure that redeeming what was dedicated to God came with a clear additional cost. In this part of Leviticus, God is giving Moses instructions for the Israelites about vows and things dedicated to God, including tithes. The verse addresses a situation where a person might need or want to keep some of what they had promised as a tithe, but still fulfill their obligation by paying its value plus a penalty. This extra payment served as a safeguard so that people would take their commitments seriously and not treat holy things lightly.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 27:31

Accepted Answer

"Redeem" (גָּאַל, ga'al) means to buy back or reclaim something that was given up. Here, it refers to reclaiming part of the tithe by paying its value plus extra. "Tithes" (מַעֲשֵׂר, ma'aser) specifically means a tenth part, usually of crops or produce, set aside for God. This word shows the concrete nature of what was being dedicated. "Add" (יָסַף, yasaf) means to increase or add to something. In this verse, it refers to the requirement to pay an additional amount beyond the original value. "Fifth" (חֲמִשִּׁית, chamishit) means a fifth part, or 20%. This sets the exact amount of the penalty for redeeming the tithe, making the rule precise and not left to personal judgment.

Question 3

Why Leviticus 27:31 matters

Accepted Answer

Leviticus 27:31 clarifies that tithes were not just a suggestion but a binding commitment, and redeeming them was possible but costly. The verse emphasizes the seriousness of dedicating things to God, discouraging people from making vows lightly or trying to reclaim what was set apart without consequence. This instruction fits into the larger context of Leviticus 27, which deals with the value and redemption of things promised to God, showing a consistent principle of respect and accountability in offerings.

Leviticus 27:31 (KJV)