Leviticus 27:31

French (BFC) 1997 (Bible en Français Courant)

Si quelqu'un veut en racheter une partie, il doit payer aux prêtres le prix normal augmenté d'un cinquième.

What Does This Mean?

This verse tells us about the rules for tithes if a person wants to get back some of what they've given. If someone redeems part of their tithes, they need to add one-fifth more to what they take back. The key message is about being generous and fair when dealing with offerings.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a cookie jar where you put some of your cookies to share with others. If you decide you want one of those cookies back, you have to put in an extra little piece of another cookie to make it fair. It's like saying, 'If I take something back, I need to give a little more to make up for it.'

Historical Background

This verse is part of the book of Leviticus, written by Moses around 1400 BCE. It was given to the Israelites as part of the covenant law, providing detailed instructions on how to conduct their religious and social lives, including how to manage their tithes.

Living It Out Today

Imagine a person who has pledged to donate a certain amount of money to a charity but decides they need to reclaim some of it due to unexpected expenses. This verse teaches that if you take back what you've given, you should add more to make it right with God and those you've committed to helping.

Topics

• tithing
• generosity
• fairness
• covenant law
• offerings
• religious practice

Related Verses

• Numbers 18:26
• Deuteronomy 14:22
• 2 Chronicles 31:14
• Malachi 3:8
• Matthew 23:23

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'redeem' mean in this context?

In this context, 'redeem' means to take back or reclaim something that was given, such as a portion of one's tithe, with the condition of adding an extra fifth part to what is taken back.

Why do you have to add a fifth part if you redeem your tithes?

Adding a fifth part ensures that the act of reclaiming a tithe is not seen as a loss for the community or God but as a fair transaction, maintaining the integrity of the tithe system.

How does this apply to Christians today?

Christians can apply this principle by being honest and generous when it comes to their commitments, especially in terms of giving to their church or community, ensuring they fulfill their promises fully.

Is this rule still applicable in the New Testament?

While the specific rule about adding a fifth part when redeeming tithes is not repeated in the New Testament, the principle of being generous and honest in one's giving remains a core teaching in Christian practice.