Faith – אֱמוּנָה

• Rambam (Hilchot Arachin V’Charamim 6:1) explains that cherem reflects complete devotion to Hashem, trusting that what is consecrated no longer belongs to us. Faith is expressed in surrendering property entirely to Divine ownership.

Holiness – קְדֻשָּׁה

• Rashi (Leviticus 27:28) comments that a cherem becomes “holy of holies,” meaning it cannot be redeemed. Holiness here represents the highest level of consecration, elevating possessions beyond human use.

Speech – דָּבָר

• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 379) notes that a simple declaration of cherem by speech transforms property into irrevocable sanctity. This highlights the Torah’s view of words as powerful, binding acts.

Vows / Oaths – נְדָרִים / שְׁבוּעוֹת

• Talmud (Arachin 28a) stresses that once a cherem is declared, the vow is absolute. This category demonstrates the gravity of verbal pledges — vows to Hashem cannot be taken lightly or reversed.

Justice – צֶדֶק

• Rambam underscores that the laws of cherem prevent manipulation or unfair treatment of consecrated property. Justice is upheld by ensuring the property goes where Torah designates — to the kohanim or the Temple treasury.

Community – קְהִלָּה

• Sefer HaChinuch explains that devoted items often served communal religious life by entering the Temple treasury. Private offerings thus strengthened the nation’s collective worship and holiness.

Priests – כֹּהֲנִים

• Talmud (Arachin 28b) rules that certain types of cherem property go to the kohanim. This mitzvah therefore reinforced the priestly role in managing sacred resources.

Bein Adam L’Makom – בֵּין אָדָם לְמָקוֹם

• Ultimately, cherem reflects direct devotion to Hashem. By declaring property forbidden for ordinary use, a person acknowledges Divine sovereignty and relinquishes control in a profound act of worship.