Leviticus 27:18
But if he sanctify his field after the jubilee, then the priest shall reckon unto him the money according to the years that remain, even unto the year of the jubilee, and it shall be abated from thy estimation.
Leviticus 27:18 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the concept of sanctifying a field after the jubilee year is discussed. In ancient Israelite society, every 50 years marked a jubilee year, during which all property would be returned to its original owner and all debts would be forgiven. If someone were to dedicate or sanctify their field after the jubilee year, they would need to compensate the priest for the years that remain until the next jubilee. The priest would calculate the value of the field based on the number of years left until the next jubilee, and the owner would have to pay this amount. This verse emphasizes the importance of observing the jubilee year and the consequences of sanctifying property after it has occurred. It also highlights the role of priests in overseeing such transactions and ensuring fairness and accountability in the community.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse (Leviticus 27:18) revolves around the concept of sanctification and redemption. When a person dedicates or sanctifies their field to the Lord after the jubilee, it signifies a act of consecration and devotion. The act of sanctifying the field is an acknowledgment of God's ownership over all things, including land. The mention of the priest reckoning the value of the field based on the years that remain until the next jubilee suggests a spiritual aspect of redemption. This process reflects a renewal of commitment to God and a recognition of His provision and blessing. The idea of the field's value being abated from the estimation emphasizes the willingness to surrender worldly possessions and place trust in God's ultimate provision. Through this verse, believers are encouraged to consider the sanctification and redemption of their lives as a continuous process, one that involves offering everything to God and acknowledging His sovereignty in all aspects of life.
Leviticus 27:18 in other translations
American Standard Version
But if he sanctify his field after the jubilee, then the priest shall reckon unto him the money according to the years that remain unto the year of jubilee; and an abatement shall be made from thy estimation.
World English Bible
But if he dedicates his field after the Jubilee, then the priest shall reckon to him the money according to the years that remain to the Year of Jubilee; and an abatement shall be made from your valuation.
Douay-Rheims
But if some time after, the priest shall reckon the money according to the number of years that remain until the jubilee, and the price shall be abated.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But if hee dedicate his fielde after the Iubile, then the Priest shall recken him the money according to ye yeeres that remaine vnto the yere of Iubile, and it shalbe abated by thy estimation.