“But the field, when it goeth out in the jubile, shall be holy unto the Lord, as a field devoted; the possession thereof shall be the priest’s.”
Context:The book of Leviticus is part of the Pentateuch, also known as the Torah, and it provides detailed instructions and regulations for the Israelites regarding their worship, daily life, and their relationship with God. Leviticus 27 deals with the laws concerning vows and the redemption of dedicated things.
Explanation and Study:The Jubilee:In this verse, the reference to the “jubile” refers to the Year of Jubilee. The Year of Jubilee was a special year that occurred every 50 years in Israel. It was a year of freedom and restoration when debts were canceled, slaves were set free, and land that had been sold or transferred reverted to its original owners (Leviticus 25:8-17). The field mentioned in Leviticus 27:21 is subject to the laws of the jubilee, meaning that in the Year of Jubilee, the field returns to its original owner.
Holy unto the Lord:When the field goes out in the jubilee, it becomes “holy unto the Lord.” The concept of holiness in the Bible denotes something set apart, consecrated, or dedicated to God. The field is no longer treated as a common possession but is considered sacred and belongs to the Lord.
Devoted field:The verse also states that the field is “devoted.” In this context, the term “devoted” refers to something that is consecrated to God and cannot be redeemed or bought back. It is set apart for God’s purposes and is permanently dedicated to Him.
Possession of the priest:The possession of the field, once it goes out in the jubilee and becomes holy unto the Lord, belongs to the priest. The field is given to the priest as a portion of the offerings and dedicated things brought to the Lord. The priest is responsible for its upkeep and utilization for the purposes of the priesthood.
Spiritual Lessons and Application:The Principle of the Jubilee:The Year of Jubilee in the Old Testament serves as a reminder of God’s provision, restoration, and justice. It demonstrates God’s concern for the equitable distribution of land and resources, and it encourages the Israelites to trust in God’s faithfulness. As believers, we can learn from this principle and trust that God is our ultimate provider and restorer, both spiritually and materially.
Holiness and Consecration:The concept of holiness in Leviticus 27:21 reminds us of the importance of consecrating our lives to God. Just as the field becomes holy unto the Lord, we are called to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, set apart for God’s purposes (Romans 12:1). Our thoughts, actions, and possessions should reflect our dedication to God and His kingdom.
God’s Provision for His Servants:The verse highlights God’s provision for the priesthood. The field, dedicated to God, becomes the possession of the priest. It serves as a reminder that God cares for those who serve Him faithfully. As believers, we can trust in God’s provision and recognize that He rewards those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6).
The Permanence of Dedication:The concept of the devoted field teaches us about the permanence of dedication to God. Once something is devoted to the Lord, it cannot be redeemed or taken back. It serves as a reminder that our commitment to God should be unwavering and steadfast. Our dedication to Him should not be conditional but based on a sincere love and devotion that endures.
In conclusion, Leviticus 27:21 teaches us about the Year of Jubilee, the principle of holiness, the provision for God’s servants, and the importance of unwavering dedication to God. These lessons can be applied to our lives as believers, reminding us of God’s faithfulness, our call to consecration, and the assurance of His provision.
