None deuoted, which shalbe deuoted of men, shall be redeemed: but shall surely be put to death. Leviticus 27:29 (KJV)
Leviticus is the third book of the Torah, the first five books of the Bible, and records the laws and regulations given by God to the Israelites through Moses. Chapter 27 deals specifically with vows and dedications to the Lord. In this context the term “devoted” refers to the Hebrew concept of cherem (or herem), meaning something set apart for complete destruction and therefore not subject to redemption.
Although the exact wording of Leviticus 27:29 is not found in the Masoretic text of Leviticus, similar language concerning things that are devoted and cannot be redeemed appears in Numbers 35:33‑34 and in Deuteronomy 13. The principle of herem is illustrated elsewhere in Scripture, for example in the narrative of Joshua where the city of Jericho and its spoils were devoted to destruction (Joshua 6:17‑21; 7:1). Such dedication served as a divine judgment against idolatry and rebellion.
The severity of this law underscores God’s holiness and the seriousness with which He regarded impurity and sin. In the ancient Israelite covenant these regulations were meant to preserve the community’s purity and to remind the people of the consequences of turning away from God.
In the New Testament, Jesus Christ fulfilled the ceremonial and civil aspects of the Mosaic Law and inaugurated a new covenant based on grace. Believers are no longer bound by the specific regulations concerning herem, yet the underlying principle of total devotion remains relevant. Christians are called to devote themselves wholly to God, surrendering their lives, desires, and possessions in obedience to His Word.
Thus, while the ancient law of devotion to destruction was a particular measure for Israel, its broader spiritual lesson invites every follower of Christ to commit fully to the Lord, allowing Him to shape every aspect of life for His glory.
