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Book of Numbers - Chapter 18 - Verse 16

18:16
And those that are to be redeemed from a month old shalt thou redeem, according to thine estimation, for the money of five shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary, which is twenty gerahs.

Meaning

According to this verse from the book of Leviticus, individuals who are to be redeemed from a month old must be redeemed for a specific amount of money, which in this case is five shekels. The shekel mentioned in the verse is based on the shekel of the sanctuary, which is equivalent to twenty gerahs. This redemption process was considered a religious duty in ancient times and was a way to consecrate and set apart individuals for the service of God. The redemption of individuals from a young age demonstrated the importance of their dedication to God and the community. This verse illustrates the significance of valuing individuals at a young age and symbolizes their worth in religious and communal contexts. It served as a reminder of the sanctity of life and the importance of each individual's contribution to the community.

Theological Overview

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse 'And those that are to be redeemed from a month old shalt thou redeem, according to thine estimation, for the money of five shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary, which is twenty gerahs', it is important to note the significance of redemption in the Bible. The act of redemption has a deep spiritual meaning throughout scripture, symbolizing the deliverance and salvation of God's people. In this particular verse from the book of Leviticus, the redemption price of five shekels for those who are a month old serves as a symbolic gesture of consecrating and setting apart individuals for the service of the Lord. The value of the shekel and gerah also hold significance, as they represent the purity and sanctity associated with the redemption process in the sanctuary. By understanding the theological implications of redemption and the symbolism behind the specified amounts, we gain insight into the overarching themes of sacrifice, dedication, and obedience found in the Old Testament.

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