Leviticus 27:7 - If the person is from sixty years old and upward; if he is a male, then your valuation shall be fifteen shekels, and for a female ten shekels.

Generated Verse: Leviticus 27:7

What does "Leviticus 27:7" mean?


Leviticus 27 deals with the valuation of people dedicated to the Lord. Essentially, a person could be "vowed" to the Lord, meaning their value would be given to the sanctuary. This verse (Leviticus 27:7) specifies the monetary value to be paid based on the age and gender of the person vowed. In this specific case, it sets the value for individuals 60 years and older:

Male: 15 shekels
Female: 10 shekels

Interpretation and Context:

Not Human Trafficking: It's important to note that this is not about selling people into slavery. The person was not sold to anyone, but their "value" was given to the temple. The person remained free.
Redemption Value: The monetary values are considered a redemption price. If a person was dedicated to the Lord, they could be redeemed by paying this value. The funds then went to the support of the sanctuary and its activities.
Age and Gender Differences: The differences in valuation based on age and gender are complex and debated. Some possible interpretations include:
Economic Contribution: Men in that age range may have been seen as being capable of more physical labor and thus had a higher value.
Social Roles: Societal expectations and roles for men and women in that time might have influenced their perceived value.
Life Expectancy: Women generally lived longer than men, so their value was less.

Important Considerations:

Historical Context: Understanding the historical and cultural context of the Old Testament is crucial. The social structures, economic systems, and religious beliefs of the time significantly influence how these verses are interpreted.
Ethical Implications: Modern readers often grapple with the ethical implications of assigning monetary value to people. It's essential to approach these passages with sensitivity and a critical understanding of the historical and cultural context.
Symbolic Interpretation: Some scholars believe that these valuations had a symbolic meaning beyond just monetary worth.

In summary, Leviticus 27:7 specifies the monetary value to be given to the sanctuary if a person 60 years or older was vowed to the Lord. The value differed based on gender. These laws are best understood in the context of the Old Testament's social, economic, and religious practices.

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