Leviticus 27:27

“And if it be of an unclean beast, then he shall redeem it according to thine estimation, and shall add a fifth part of it thereto: or if it be not redeemed, then it shall be sold according to thy estimation.”

Literary Context

The preceding line reads “Only the firstling of the beasts, which should be the Lord's firstling, no man shall sanctify it; whether it be ox, or sheep: it is the Lord's.” The titled verse reads “And if it be of an unclean beast, then he shall redeem it according to thine estimation, and shall add a fifth part of it thereto: or if it be not redeemed, then it shall be sold according to thy estimation.” The following line reads “Notwithstanding no devoted thing, that a man shall devote unto the Lord of all that he hath, both of man and beast, and of the field of his possession, shall be sold or redeemed: every devoted thing is most holy unto the Lord.” Together, these lines show how Leviticus 27:27 functions within its immediate canonical and literary sequence.

Close Reading

The verse uses the language of instruction, obligation, or prescribed practice. Its force comes from the specific action, person, and circumstance named in the text. Interpretation must therefore distinguish exactly who is addressed, what is required, and how the command fits the surrounding passage.

The verse first states “And if it be of an unclean beast, then he shall redeem it according to thine estimation, and shall add a fifth part of it thereto:” It then adds “or if it be not redeemed, then it shall be sold according to thy estimation.” Reading both movements together prevents either half of the verse from being isolated from the other.

Place in Scripture

Biblical instructions show that faithfulness is expressed in concrete conduct rather than vague intention. At the same time, a command must be read within its covenantal and literary setting before it is applied beyond its original audience.

A Faithful Response

Readers should identify the command and its stated purpose before drawing a modern application. The enduring lesson begins with reverence for God’s word, precision in obedience, and care in distinguishing the original setting from later application.

Accordingly, the meaning of Leviticus 27:27 should be drawn from the verse itself and the lines around it. This keeps both explanation and application faithful to the text.