Catholic Public Domain Version
Leviticus 27:6
“From one month until the fifth year, for a male, five shekels shall be given; for a female, three.”
Verse Explanation
A saved explanation for Leviticus 27:6.
Plain-language explanation
Leviticus 27:6 sets a value for a person’s vow-related redemption (a kind of “price” for making good on a vow). If the person is male and their age falls within “from one month until the fifth year,” the stated amount is five shekels; if the person is female in the same age range, it is three shekels.
Catholic context
Many Catholics read these verses as part of Israel’s Old Testament law, where God taught His people to approach vows, worship, and stewardship in concrete ways. The differences stated by sex and age are not meant to be a universal statement about equal human dignity; rather, they reflect the legal system of ancient Israel and how vows were accounted for within that covenant community.
Historical background
In ancient Israel, vows connected to the Temple were taken seriously, and certain offerings had assigned values. “Shekels” were weights of silver used as money, and the law differentiated amounts according to age and gender categories typical of that legal culture. The goal was an orderly system for returning or redeeming what had been vowed to God.
Reflection
This verse shows how seriously the people of God treated promises made to the Lord. Even something as personal as a vow had a defined “path back,” so that worship and accountability could stay clear and fair within the law as given to Israel.
Practical takeaway
When we make promises to God—whether through prayer, penance, service, or commitments—let’s treat them seriously and follow through. If circumstances change, seek wise ways to repair and remain faithful, rather than simply letting commitments drift away.
Prayer
Lord God, help me to keep my promises to You with a sincere heart. Teach me to be faithful in small things and honest in all my vows. If I have fallen short, grant me the grace to make it right. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.