Leviticus 27:32

KJV

And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

And concerning the tithe {H4643} of the herd {H1241}, or of the flock {H6629}, even of whatsoever passeth {H5674} under the rod {H7626}, the tenth {H6224} shall be holy {H6944} unto the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"'All the tenth from the herd or the flock, whatever passes under the shepherd's crook, the tenth one will be holy to ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

Every tenth animal from the herd or flock that passes under the shepherd’s rod will be holy to the LORD.

American Standard Version

And all the tithe of the herd or the flock, whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 27:32 concludes the book by establishing the law for the tithe of livestock, mandating that the tenth animal, impartially selected as it passes under the shepherd's rod, is to be consecrated as holy to the LORD. This final instruction underscores God's absolute sovereignty and ownership over all increase and provision, reinforcing a foundational principle of dedication and acknowledgment of divine claim that distinguishes this non-redeemable offering from other vows and dedications discussed in the chapter.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus 27:32 serves as the culminating verse of the entire book of Leviticus, specifically within the final chapter dedicated to vows, dedications, and their redemption. While the preceding verses of [Leviticus 27](/leviticus/27 "Leviticus 27 - Vows and Tithes") detail various forms of dedications—of persons, animals, or property—and the conditions for their redemption or valuation, verses 30-33 specifically address the tithe, both of the land's produce and of livestock. Unlike other dedicated items that could be bought back or substituted, the tithe is explicitly declared "holy unto the LORD" and "not to be redeemed" (as seen in [Leviticus 27:30-31](/leviticus/27-30-31 "Leviticus 27:30-31 - The Tithe is Not Redeemable")). This crucial distinction emphasizes the inherent and unchangeable sacred status of the tithe. This final instruction reinforces the overarching theme of holiness that permeates the entire book of [Leviticus](/leviticus "Leviticus - The Book of Holiness"), culminating in a practical, tangible demonstration of God's sovereign claim on His people's possessions and the requirement for them to live a consecrated life.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The practice of tithing, or giving a tenth, was not unique to ancient Israel; similar practices existed in other ancient Near Eastern cultures, often as a form of taxation or religious tribute. However, in Israel, tithing was uniquely and fundamentally tied to the covenant relationship with Yahweh, serving as a direct acknowledgment of His divine provision and ownership. The phrase "whatsoever passeth under the rod" refers to a specific, traditional method used by shepherds to count and select the tithe from their herds and flocks. As animals exited the pen or fold through a narrow gate, the shepherd would stand at the entrance, using a rod (often dipped in ochre or dye) to mark every tenth animal. This method ensured a random and impartial selection, preventing the owner from deliberately choosing the weakest, sickest, or least valuable animals for the tithe. This practice underscored the principle of offering to God a true tenth, without human manipulation or preference, reflecting the integrity and faithfulness expected in Israel's relationship with their divine Provider. This systematic and unblemished giving was crucial for the support of the [Levitical priesthood](/numbers/18-21 "Numbers 18:21 - Support for the Levites") and the maintenance of the tabernacle/temple worship, as detailed in other Pentateuchal books like [Numbers 18](/numbers/18 "Numbers 18 - The Duties of Priests and Levites").
* **Key Themes:** Leviticus 27:32 contributes significantly to several key themes prevalent throughout the book of Leviticus and the Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of **Holiness**, as the tithed animal is explicitly declared "holy unto the LORD," signifying its complete separation for divine purposes. This reinforces the broader call for Israel to be a holy nation set apart for God, a concept introduced early in the book (e.g., [Leviticus 11:44-45](/leviticus/11-44-45 "Leviticus 11:44-45 - Be Holy, For I Am Holy")). Another crucial theme is **Divine Ownership and Sovereignty**, where the tithe serves as a tangible acknowledgment that all blessings and increase ultimately belong to God, and His people are merely stewards of His provision. This is echoed in passages like [Psalm 24:1](/psalms/24-1 "Psalm 24:1 - The Earth is the Lord's"). Finally, the verse highlights the theme of **Covenant Obligation and Obedience**, as the tithe is a divinely mandated command, not a voluntary offering, demonstrating Israel's faithfulness to their covenant with Yahweh. This obedience was directly linked to divine blessing, as seen in later prophetic calls like [Malachi 3:10](/malachi/3-10 "Malachi 3:10 - Bring the Whole Tithe").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Tithe (Hebrew, _maʻăsêr'_):** This term (H4643) denotes a "tenth" or "tenth part," specifically referring to the divinely mandated proportion of increase that is inherently set apart for God. Its usage here signifies a fixed obligation, not merely a suggestion or a charitable donation, underscoring God's foundational claim over all the produce and increase from His creation and His people's labor.
* **Passeth (Hebrew, _ʻâbar'_):** Derived from a primitive root (H5674) meaning "to cross over," this word is used widely of any transition. In this context, it specifically describes the action of animals moving under the rod, highlighting the systematic and sequential process of counting and selection. It implies a movement through a designated point, ensuring that each animal is accounted for in the tithing process.
* **Rod (Hebrew, _shêbeṭ'_):** This term (H7626) refers to a "stick," "staff," or "scepter." In the context of a shepherd, the _shêbeṭ_ was an essential tool for guiding, protecting, and counting the flock. Here, its specific use in "passing under the rod" highlights its function as an instrument of impartial selection and systematic counting, symbolizing divine order and the unalterable nature of the tithe's designation.
* **Holy (Hebrew, _qôdesh'_):** Meaning "set apart," "consecrated," or "sacred" (H6944). When something is declared _qôdesh_ unto the LORD, it is removed from common use and dedicated exclusively to God's purposes. For the tithed animal, this meant it could not be redeemed, sold, or used for personal gain; it belonged entirely to God. This concept reinforces the absolute sovereignty of God and the sacred nature of what is offered to Him.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock":** This introductory phrase specifies the subject of the law: the tithe, or a tenth part, derived from livestock. This encompasses both larger animals (herd, e.g., cattle, oxen) and smaller ones (flock, e.g., sheep and goats). This indicates that God's claim extends to all forms of agricultural and pastoral increase, which were the primary sources of wealth and sustenance in ancient Israel.
* **"[even] of whatsoever passeth under the rod":** This clause describes the precise, traditional method for selecting the tithed animal. As the animals would exit a gate or narrow passage, the shepherd would use his rod to count them, marking every tenth one. This ensured a random, unbiased, and impartial selection, preventing the owner from choosing inferior animals for the tithe, thereby emphasizing the integrity and objectivity required in fulfilling this divine command.
* **"the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD":** This is the declarative statement of the law's outcome and purpose. The animal designated as the tenth, regardless of its individual quality or perceived value, is declared "holy" (set apart, consecrated) and belongs exclusively to Yahweh. This declaration establishes the sacred, non-redeemable nature of the livestock tithe, reinforcing God's ultimate ownership and the people's obligation to acknowledge His provision through consecrated giving.

#### Literary Devices
Leviticus 27:32 employs several literary devices to convey its profound theological and practical meaning. **Metonymy** is evident in the phrase "passeth under the rod," where the "rod" stands for the entire, divinely ordained system of tithing livestock. This emphasizes the systematic and intentional nature of this act of worship, ensuring impartiality. **Symbolism** is prominent, with the "rod" serving as a powerful symbol of divine authority, impartiality, and systematic order in the selection process, ensuring that the tithe is beyond human manipulation. The "tenth" itself is a **symbol** of completeness and divine claim, representing God's inherent right to a portion of all increase. Furthermore, the declaration that "the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD" is an act of **consecration**, using language that sets apart the designated animal for sacred purposes, highlighting the intrinsic holiness of what is offered to God and the absolute nature of His claim.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 27:32 profoundly articulates the foundational biblical truth of God's absolute sovereignty and ownership over all creation. The tithe, particularly of livestock, serves as a tangible acknowledgment that all blessings, resources, and increase ultimately flow from His gracious hand. It is not merely a tax or a charitable act, but a non-negotiable act of worship, demonstrating trust in God's ongoing provision and obedience to His covenant commands. This principle of consecrated giving undergirds the entire Old Testament economy, supporting the priesthood and the tabernacle/temple service, thereby facilitating the spiritual life and communal worship of the nation. It establishes a pattern of giving that acknowledges God as the source of all prosperity and the rightful recipient of a dedicated portion.

* [Psalm 24:1](/psalms/24-1 "Psalm 24:1 - The Earth is the Lord's and the Fullness Thereof")
* [Deuteronomy 14:22-29](/deuteronomy/14-22-29 "Deuteronomy 14:22-29 - Laws Concerning Tithes and Festivals")
* [Malachi 3:10](/malachi/3-10 "Malachi 3:10 - Bring the Whole Tithe into the Storehouse")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the specific method of tithing livestock "under the rod" is no longer practiced, the timeless principles embedded in Leviticus 27:32 remain profoundly relevant for believers today. This verse calls us to a posture of radical generosity and unwavering trust, reminding us that all we possess is a gift from God, and a portion is rightfully His. It challenges us to move beyond sporadic or convenience-based giving to embrace a systematic, intentional, and cheerful offering of our "firstfruits" and a true "tenth" of our resources, whether financial, time, or talent. This act of giving is not about meeting a legalistic requirement but about cultivating a heart that acknowledges God's ultimate ownership, expresses gratitude for His provision, and participates in His ongoing work in the world. It fosters discipline, counters materialism, and deepens our reliance on Him, knowing that He is faithful to provide for those who honor Him with their substance. Our giving becomes an act of worship, a declaration of trust, and a means by which God's kingdom is advanced.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the principle of God's ultimate ownership, as highlighted in this verse, shape my understanding of my own possessions and resources?**
* **In what ways can I apply the "systematic and impartial" nature of the tithe selection to my own giving habits today, ensuring integrity and intentionality?**
* **What does it mean for my giving to be "holy unto the LORD," and how can I ensure my offerings reflect a consecrated heart rather than mere obligation?**
* **How does my giving contribute to supporting God's work and spreading His kingdom, similar to how the tithe supported the Levites and the tabernacle/temple in ancient Israel?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of the "rod" in Leviticus 27:32?**

Answer: The "rod" (Hebrew: _shebet_) in [Leviticus 27:32](/leviticus/27-32 "Leviticus 27:32 - The Tithe of Livestock") refers to a shepherd's staff used as a counting tool. As animals exited a pen one by one, the shepherd would stand at the gate and touch every tenth animal with the rod, marking it as the tithe. This method ensured a random and impartial selection, preventing the owner from deliberately choosing the weakest or least valuable animals. It symbolized the integrity and objectivity required in presenting the tithe to the Lord, emphasizing that the designated animal was chosen by divine ordinance, not human preference. This practice ensured that the tithe was a true and unblemished tenth, reflecting the honor due to God as the ultimate provider.

**Is the tithing of livestock still relevant for believers today?**

Answer: While the literal practice of tithing livestock "under the rod" is no longer applicable, the underlying principles of [Leviticus 27:32](/leviticus/27-32 "Leviticus 27:32 - The Tithe of Livestock") remain highly relevant for believers today. The verse teaches us about God's ultimate ownership of all things, the importance of systematic and proportional giving, and the concept of consecrating a portion of our increase to the Lord. Under the New Covenant, believers are called to generous and cheerful giving, not out of legalistic obligation, but as an act of worship and gratitude for God's boundless grace (as seen in [2 Corinthians 9:7](/2_corinthians/9-7 "2 Corinthians 9:7 - God Loves a Cheerful Giver")). The New Testament does not prescribe a legalistic "tenth" but encourages giving proportionally as one has prospered (as instructed in [1 Corinthians 16:2](/1_corinthians/16-2 "1 Corinthians 16:2 - Collection for the Saints")), reflecting the heart's devotion and trust in God's provision. The principle of supporting God's work and those who minister the Gospel (e.g., [1 Timothy 5:18](/1_timothy/5-18 "1 Timothy 5:18 - The Worker Deserves His Wages")) is a direct continuation of the spirit behind the Old Testament tithe.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 27:32, with its emphasis on a "tenth" being "holy unto the LORD" through an impartial selection, finds its ultimate fulfillment and transformation in Jesus Christ. While the Old Covenant tithe pointed to God's ownership and the need for Israel to consecrate a portion of their increase, Christ himself is the ultimate "holy" offering, the perfect Lamb of God who was "chosen" not by a shepherd's rod, but by divine decree from before the foundation of the world (as described in [1 Peter 1:19-20](/1_peter/1-19-20 "1 Peter 1:19-20 - Redemption by the Blood of Christ")). He is the unblemished sacrifice, the "firstfruits" of resurrection (as proclaimed in [1 Corinthians 15:20](/1_corinthians/15-20 "1 Corinthians 15:20 - Christ, the Firstfruits")), who fully consecrated Himself to God's will (as seen in [Hebrews 10:5-7](/hebrews/10-5-7 "Hebrews 10:5-7 - Christ's Obedience and Sacrifice")). In Christ, the principle of giving is transformed from a legal obligation to a joyful response to grace. Our "tithe" in the New Covenant is not merely a portion of our material wealth, but the offering of our entire lives, our very selves, as a "living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God" (as exhorted in [Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifices")). Just as the tithed animal was set apart for God's exclusive use, believers are now "set apart" in Christ, consecrated by His blood (as taught in [Hebrews 13:12](/hebrews/13-12 "Hebrews 13:12 - Jesus Suffered Outside the Gate")), becoming a "holy priesthood" (as declared in [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Chosen Race, a Royal Priesthood")) called to offer spiritual sacrifices. Our giving, therefore, becomes an overflow of our union with Christ, who gave His all, making us holy and enabling us to participate in His redemptive mission through Spirit-empowered generosity (as exemplified in [2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's Generosity")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Jeremiah 33:13

In the cities of the mountains, in the cities of the vale, and in the cities of the south, and in the land of Benjamin, and in the places about Jerusalem, and in the cities of Judah, shall the flocks pass again under the hands of him that telleth [them], saith the LORD.

Ezekiel 20:37

And I will cause you to pass under the rod, and I will bring you into the bond of the covenant:

Micah 7:14

¶ Feed thy people with thy rod, the flock of thine heritage, which dwell solitarily [in] the wood, in the midst of Carmel: let them feed [in] Bashan and Gilead, as in the days of old.