Leviticus 27:13 Meaning and Explanation
“But if he will at all redeem it, then he shall add a fifth part thereof unto thy estimation.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →To reclaim a vowed animal, the owner must pay its assessed value plus one-fifth.
The Context of Leviticus 27:13
God permits redemption of vowed unclean animals at a cost.
What Does Leviticus 27:13 Mean?
If someone who vowed an unclean animal wishes to redeem it—to take it back from the sanctuary—they must pay the priest's valuation plus an additional twenty percent penalty. This extra amount compensates the sanctuary for the broken vow and discourages people from making vows they do not intend to fulfill.
The redemption provision shows that vows need not be permanent if the person is willing to pay the cost. The penalty ensures that redemption is not a free or easy option, maintaining the seriousness of vow-making while preserving a path for those with genuine need to reclaim what they offered.
Leviticus 27:13 in the Original Language
padah (פָּדָה), 'redeem' — to buy back or recover something by payment, restoring it to private ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 27:13
What does Leviticus 27:13 mean?
To reclaim a vowed animal, the owner must pay its assessed value plus one-fifth.
What is the context of Leviticus 27:13?
God permits redemption of vowed unclean animals at a cost.