Lev 1-26 are instructions God gives his people to follow. Lev 26:46 clearly stated that those were the statutes, rules, and laws that the LORD made between himself and the people of Israel through Moses on Mount Sinai. By right, that should conclude the entire writing of Leviticus. So Lev 27 is an additional insertion. It does not talk about rules that we have to obey. Instead, it talks about vows.

Vows are promises of gifts from men to God. It is an expression of gratitude and love. The gifts cover individuals, animals, houses and fields. God set a value for redemption purposes. The redemption value is typically set at 20% above the value of the gift. In other words, if, for any reason, one cannot fulfil his promise, he has to pay 120% of the valuation of the gift.

One may argue that since it is a gift, why can’t I take it back whenever I wish? After all, I am the rightful owner.

No, you cannot. Once anything is given out, it does not belong to you anymore. Besides, you must pay more than the original value to redeem because you break your promise.

This is what a promise or dedication is about. Once it is promised, we should keep it till the end. So, if we have committed our lives to God, may this be forever.

Blessing!