This “valuation” may have been for the purpose of making a contribution or offering in the name of an entire family. Perhaps such special offerings were required from time to time, as in 2 Kings 12.4-8, for urgent repairs to the temple, or emergency needs among the princes. How much would be appropriate? Well, not just anything. Remember, offerings have an element of sacrifice attached to them, so these various standards of valuation would have ensured that such an offering would truly mean something.

It’s not clear why there are different standards of valuation for different people. It may have something to do with their role in the family structure or clan. Poor people who could not rise to the level of these standards, but who felt a need to make such a vow or offering, could present themselves to the priest and he would determine what was appropriate to give.

T. M. Moore

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Except as indicated, Scripture taken from the New King James Version. © Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.