Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Leviticus 27:9 mean?
A: Leviticus 27:9 teaches that when a person designates an animal as an offering to Hashem, it becomes holy (kodesh) and may no longer be used for ordinary purposes. This means the animal is set aside exclusively for sacred use, such as sacrifices in the Temple (Rashi, Vayikra 27:9).
Q: Why is this verse important?
A: This verse is important because it establishes the principle of 'hekdesh' (dedication to the Temple). Once an animal is pledged to Hashem, it acquires a holy status and must be treated with reverence. The Rambam (Hilchos Me'ilah 1:1) explains that misusing such sanctified objects is a serious transgression.
Q: How does this apply today without the Temple?
A: While we cannot bring animal offerings today, the concept still applies to dedicating objects or money for holy purposes (like tzedakah or synagogue use). The Talmud (Arachin 29a) discusses how vows of valuation (like those in Leviticus 27) teach us about the power of verbal commitments in Jewish law.
Q: What can we learn from 'it shall be holy'?
A: We learn that when we dedicate something to a higher purpose, it transforms its status. The Midrash (Toras Kohanim) explains this teaches us to be mindful of our words and commitments, as they have real spiritual consequences in making things holy.
Q: Does this mean all animals can be offerings?
A: No, only certain unblemished animals were valid for offerings. Rashi (Vayikra 27:9) notes this verse refers specifically to animals that are of the type normally brought as sacrifices (like cattle, sheep, or goats), not all animals indiscriminately.
Overview of the Verse
The verse (Vayikra 27:9) discusses the sanctity of animals brought as offerings to Hashem. It emphasizes that once an animal is designated as a korban (offering), it attains a holy status and must be treated with the proper reverence due to sacred objects.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that this verse refers to animals consecrated for sacrifices, particularly those that are kodshei mizbeach (sanctified for the altar). Once an animal is declared as a korban, it cannot be redeemed or used for mundane purposes. Rashi cites the Talmud (Temurah 5a) to clarify that this sanctity applies even if the animal develops a disqualifying blemish—it remains holy and cannot be exchanged or sold.
Rambam's Perspective
In Hilchos Me'ilah (8:8), the Rambam elaborates that any animal designated as a korban becomes the property of the Beit HaMikdash (Temple) and is subject to the laws of me'ilah (misusing sacred property). Even if the animal is no longer fit for sacrifice, its holiness remains intact, and it must be dealt with according to halachic guidelines—either left to graze until it develops a permanent blemish or redeemed in a prescribed manner.
Midrashic Insight
The Midrash (Torat Kohanim) connects this verse to the broader theme of kedushah (holiness) in avodah (Temple service). It teaches that once an object or animal is dedicated to Hashem, it undergoes a spiritual transformation, elevating it beyond ordinary use. This principle applies not only to sacrifices but also to other forms of consecration, such as hekdesh (property dedicated to the Temple).
Practical Halachic Implications
Conceptual Lesson
The verse underscores the irrevocable nature of dedication to Hashem. Just as a korban cannot revert to mundane status, our commitments to mitzvos and spiritual growth should be unwavering. The Sages (Chullin 84a) derive from here that one must fulfill vows promptly, reflecting the seriousness of dedicating something to divine service.