Not to spend its redemption money on anything but food, drink, or ointment

Faith – אֱמוּנָה

• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 608) explains that limiting the use of redemption money fosters faith by reminding us that even after conversion to currency, the sanctity of Ma’aser Sheni remains. This trains us to see Hashem’s holiness extending beyond the physical crop.

Holiness – קְדֻשָּׁה

• Rambam (Hilchot Ma’aser Sheni 7:1) rules that the money retains its sanctity and must be spent only on food, drink, or ointment to be consumed in Jerusalem. This safeguards the holiness of the mitzvah in every stage.

Reverence – יִרְאַת שָׁמַיִם

• Rashi (Deuteronomy 26:14) teaches that this mitzvah channels the funds toward rejoicing before Hashem. Restricting their use instills reverence by reminding us that the money is not ours for personal whims but remains dedicated to Divine service.

Justice – צֶדֶק

• Talmud (Kiddushin 54b) clarifies that non-consumable goods (like clothing or utensils) may not be purchased. This ensures fairness in how the sanctified money is used — aligned with Hashem’s will, not self-interest.

Agriculture – חַקְלָאוּת

• Though the produce may be redeemed, its sanctity continues to guide agricultural mitzvot. This teaches that the holiness of the land is not limited to crops themselves but extends into how their value is used.

Terumah / Ma’aser – תְּרוּמָה / מַעֲשֵׂר

• Rambam explains that Ma’aser Sheni after redemption is still bound by Torah law. This shows that tithing is not merely symbolic but maintains force even when the form changes.

Eretz Yisrael – אֶרֶץ יִשְׂרָאֵל

• Talmud (Kiddushin 38b–39a) affirms that the mitzvah of Ma’aser Sheni is biblically binding only in Israel, reinforcing the land’s unique sanctity in channeling produce toward holiness.

Community – קְהִלָּה

• The mitzvah ensured that redeemed Ma’aser Sheni money would still be used for communal joy in Jerusalem. By gathering to eat and rejoice, the people strengthened their unity and connection to the Temple.

Bein Adam L’Makom – בֵּין אָדָם לְמָקוֹם

• Ultimately, this mitzvah is about obedience to Hashem’s command and reverence for His sanctity. Restricting use of the funds keeps the focus on Divine service and prevents dilution of purpose.