Clueless

The LORD said to Moses, “Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. If anyone makes a special vow to dedicate someone to the LORD by paying the value of that person, here is the scale of values to be used. A man between the ages of twenty and sixty is valued at fifty shekels of silver, as measured by the sanctuary shekel. A woman of that age is valued at thirty shekels of silver. A boy between the ages of five and twenty is valued at twenty shekels of silver; a girl of that age is valued at ten shekels of silver. A boy between the ages of one month and five years is valued at five shekels of silver; a girl of that age is valued at three shekels of silver. A man older than sixty is valued at fifteen shekels of silver; a woman of that age is valued at ten shekels of silver. [Leviticus 27.1-7]

I guess I just don't get what this valuation is about. I am unsure what a "special vow to dedicate someone to the LORD by paying the value of that person" means.

That said, it would seem reasonable to discuss the apparent inequality in the valuations. But then, if we do not fully understand what the "special vow" is about, how can we understand the valuations? Really.

No doubt, God's valuation of people is different than man's. Yes, this has to do with gender and age. The valuation is based on the general ability to do work of the age and gender.

Of course there are women fully capable of out-working men, but, as a rule, men are sturdier-built for the task of physical work. But then, in the 21st century, physical work is somewhat archaic with the advancement of technology so, does it matter any longer? Good question.

The fact remains that God put values upon people according to their age and gender. Period.

Now, why did God do that? What was the valuation about? What was a "special vow to dedicate someone" about? I cannot say I know.

I suppose I could Google it. However, I believe as I continue to read the Bible with an understanding and open heart, that God will reveal it from His Word - the Story of the Bible.

Father, I have little direction for an application of what I have read and learned today. But I am trusting that You will reveal an important lesson to me in time as I meditate on the words I have read today. Thank You.