Definition: But if he sanctify his field after the jubile, then the priest shall reckon unto him the money according to the years that remain, even unto the year of the jubile, and it shall be abated from thy estimation.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 27:18. It's a pretty complex passage, but here’s a simplified explanation: Essentially, this verse is about how to handle money and livestock during times of celebration or special events. Here’s the breakdown: “But if he sanctify his field after the jubile…” – This means when a festival (like a Passover celebration) is happening, the land is being “sanctified.” This is a big deal - it's a time of thanks and offering to God. Think of it like a special blessing on the land. “…then the priest shall reckon unto him the money according to the years that remain, even unto the year of the jubile…” – The priest (a religious official) is responsible for managing the money earned during this time. He has to track how much money is left over after all the celebrations are finished. He’s supposed to keep a record of it until the end of the Jubilee year, which is a period of 7 years. “and it shall be abated from thy estimation.” – This is the key part. The priest is allowed to keep a portion of this money, but he has to limit how much he can take. It's like letting a little bit of food stay for later, so it doesn’t disappear completely. In simpler terms: The priest needs to keep a little bit of the money earned during a festival, and he’s allowed to keep it until the end of the Jubilee year. What does this mean practically? This verse is about responsible stewardship – being careful with resources, especially when they're tied to religious events. It emphasizes that God wants us to use our wealth wisely and not hoard it all up. Context & Significance: Jewish Tradition: This passage is a cornerstone of Jewish law and tradition. It’s an important part of understanding how the Old Testament describes the relationship between God, the Israelites, and the land. Focus on Giving: It highlights the idea that God wants us to give back to the community through our wealth, rather than keeping everything for ourselves. Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of this verse in more detail? Relate it to other biblical stories or teachings?