11 And if it is any unclean beast, of which offerings are not made to the Lord, then let him take the beast before the priest; 12 And let the priest put a value on it, if it is good or bad; whatever value the priest puts on it, so will it be. 13 But if he has a desire to get it back for himself, let him give a fifth more than your value.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Leviticus 27:11-13
Commentary on Leviticus 27:1-13
(Read Leviticus 27:1-13)
Zeal for the service of God disposed the Israelites, on some occasions, to dedicate themselves or their children to the service of the Lord, in his house for life. Some persons who thus dedicated themselves might be employed as assistants; in general they were to be redeemed for a value. It is good to be zealously affected and liberally disposed for the Lord's service; but the matter should be well weighed, and prudence should direct as to what we do; else rash vows and hesitation in doing them will dishonour God, and trouble our own minds.