This final passage addresses the redemption of people, animals, and possessions that had been dedicated to the Lord. Out of a vow freely given, an individual might dedicate a person, an animal, or a possession to the Lord. If they later wished to redeem what had been dedicated, the Lord allowed them to do so by paying the value of the dedication.

If a person could not afford the price of redeeming someone who had been dedicated to the Lord, the priest would set a price they could afford. An animal, a home, farm land, or a tithe could also be redeemed by paying its assessed value plus an additional one-fifth. At times, substitutions were permitted. The redemption money was then added to the tabernacle treasury to support its ministry.

Certain things devoted to the Lord could not be redeemed. “Devoted” here means they were given to the Lord and meant to be destroyed, (1 Sa 15). Such things were considered most holy to the Lord, and anyone who did not destroy the devoted object would be cursed. Verse 34 concludes by affirming that these are the commands of the Lord. This passage reminds us to take our vows to the Lord seriously. We should not make vows to the Lord lightly, for he hears our vows, sees whether we keep them, and holds us accountable one way or another, even when we forget.
Application: Father, help me to keep my vows to you.
One Word: Keep your vows to the Lord