And those that are to be redeemed from a month old shalt thou redeem, according to thine estimation, for the money of five shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary, which is twenty gerahs.
When children are one month old, you must buy them back for the price you set: five shekels using the sanctuary's standard weight, which equals twenty gerahs.
This verse explains that firstborn children must be 'bought back' from God with a payment of five silver shekels when they turn one month old.
📚 Historical Context
In the time of Moses, after the Israelites escaped from Egypt, God commanded that the firstborn of every family be dedicated to Him as a memorial of the Passover, when He spared their lives from the final plague. The Levites were appointed to serve in the tabernacle in place of the firstborn from other tribes, requiring a redemption payment to free those not serving. This verse specifies the exact amount, five shekels of silver, for redeeming a firstborn child who is at least a month old, ensuring the sanctity of God's claim on human life.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.