This verse instructs that anyone redeeming a dedicated possession must add an extra twenty percent to its previously determined value.
Leviticus 27:13 occurs in a section of Scripture where Moses (1526-1406 BC) relayed the LORD’s instructions on how individuals in ancient Israel could dedicate their possessions or themselves to God, with the possibility of later buying those items back. The Israelites were in the wilderness at this time, having been delivered from Egypt and heading toward the Promised Land. Against this backdrop, the text says, “But if he wishes at all to redeem it, then he shall add one-fifth of it to your valuation” (v.13). These words reflect the principle that if someone made a vow or dedication to the LORD—be it property, land, or other belongings—and later wished to regain possession, they had to add an extra twenty percent (one-fifth) of its designated value to complete the redemption. This extra payment symbolized the seriousness of a promise made to God and underscored that fulfilling any vow required both humility and sacrifice.
Because vows to the LORD were voluntary and conditional, their integrity was protected by these additional stipulations. Individuals who dedicated an item were free to change their minds, but the commanded extra payment taught that a holy commitment to God was not a light matter. The book of Leviticus emphasizes that God’s holiness permeates all areas of life, whether worship, personal possessions, or vows. Elsewhere, scripture reminds us that a vow made to God must be paid in a timely manner and not taken casually (Ecclesiastes 5:4-5). Indeed, principles regarding vows are found throughout the Mosaic Law (Leviticus 7:16, 22:21, 22:23, 27:2; Numbers 30:2), reminding God’s people to take their word to the LORD seriously.
In this way, Leviticus 27:13 connects to the broader context of the covenant at Sinai, where the Israelites learned to worship and serve the LORD according to His commands. By pledging to God and then redeeming their vow with an added one-fifth, His people recognized God’s ownership of all things and the importance of honoring every promise before Him.
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Leviticus 27:13 meaning
Leviticus 27:13 occurs in a section of Scripture where Moses (1526-1406 BC) relayed the LORD’s instructions on how individuals in ancient Israel could dedicate their possessions or themselves to God, with the possibility of later buying those items back. The Israelites were in the wilderness at this time, having been delivered from Egypt and heading toward the Promised Land. Against this backdrop, the text says, “But if he wishes at all to redeem it, then he shall add one-fifth of it to your valuation” (v.13). These words reflect the principle that if someone made a vow or dedication to the LORD—be it property, land, or other belongings—and later wished to regain possession, they had to add an extra twenty percent (one-fifth) of its designated value to complete the redemption. This extra payment symbolized the seriousness of a promise made to God and underscored that fulfilling any vow required both humility and sacrifice.
Because vows to the LORD were voluntary and conditional, their integrity was protected by these additional stipulations. Individuals who dedicated an item were free to change their minds, but the commanded extra payment taught that a holy commitment to God was not a light matter. The book of Leviticus emphasizes that God’s holiness permeates all areas of life, whether worship, personal possessions, or vows. Elsewhere, scripture reminds us that a vow made to God must be paid in a timely manner and not taken casually (Ecclesiastes 5:4-5). Indeed, principles regarding vows are found throughout the Mosaic Law (Leviticus 7:16, 22:21, 22:23, 27:2; Numbers 30:2), reminding God’s people to take their word to the LORD seriously.
In this way, Leviticus 27:13 connects to the broader context of the covenant at Sinai, where the Israelites learned to worship and serve the LORD according to His commands. By pledging to God and then redeeming their vow with an added one-fifth, His people recognized God’s ownership of all things and the importance of honoring every promise before Him.