Definition: And if [it be] from five years old even unto twenty years old, then thy estimation shall be of the male twenty shekels, and for the female ten shekels.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 27:5. It's a really important part of understanding how God’s laws applied to animals in ancient Israel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse says that certain animals – specifically livestock like cattle, sheep, goats, and deer – are assigned specific wages based on their age. Let's unpack it further: “And if [it be] from five years old even unto twenty years old…” This tells us this rule applies to animals older than a certain age. It’s about recognizing the difference in value between young and mature animals. “…then thy estimation shall be of the male twenty shekels, and for the female ten shekels.” This is the core of the verse: “Twenty shekels”: This means a man would receive 20 silver coins (shekels). Silver was a precious metal used in ancient Israel. “Ten shekels”: This means a woman would receive 10 silver coins. What does this mean practically? Historically, this rule was designed to ensure that the work and effort of men and women were valued differently. It reflected a system where men were expected to provide for their families through labor, while women contributed to the household economy. The idea was that men's labor was more valuable because they were responsible for providing, and women’s contribution was essential for family survival. Important Context: This law was part of a larger system of animal sacrifice. The Old Testament described specific rituals and ways to honor God by sacrificing animals. It wasn't about treating animals as less valuable than humans. The verse is about fair distribution based on age and assigned value, not about denying the worth of people. In short: This verse establishes a system where older animals were compensated differently from younger ones, reflecting ancient Jewish values about work, family, and responsibility. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, I could delve deeper into the historical context or explore why this rule was important? Just let me know!