To estimate the value of consecrated animals

Faith – אֱמוּנָה

• Rambam (Hilchot Arachin 2:1) rules that consecrated animals must be valued by a kohen, whether they are strong or weak. Faith is shown by trusting that Hashem’s valuation system is fair and binding, even when human judgment might differ.

Justice – צֶדֶק

• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 376) explains that the mitzvah ensures fairness in fulfilling vows. By having a kohen determine the value, personal bias is removed, and justice is preserved in how sacred property is handled.

Holiness – קְדֻשָּׁה

• Talmud (Arachin 19a) highlights that the valuation links ordinary property to sacred use. Holiness comes from elevating even mundane possessions into Temple service through fair appraisal.

Speech – דָּבָר

• The process begins with a vow or declaration, binding through words. The kohen’s valuation gives halachic structure to the consecration, showing how speech translates into concrete obligations.

Vows / Oaths – נְדָרִים / שְׁבוּעוֹת

• Rashi (Leviticus 27:12) emphasizes that “as the priest values it, so shall it be.” This demonstrates the Torah’s seriousness about fulfilling vows — once spoken, the valuation becomes fixed law.

Community – קְהִלָּה

• Funds from valuations supported the Temple treasury. Thus, individual consecrations became part of the community’s collective worship, strengthening unity through shared sanctity.

Bein Adam L’Makom – בֵּין אָדָם לְמָקוֹם

• Ultimately, this mitzvah reflects a person’s relationship with Hashem. By consecrating an animal and accepting the kohen’s valuation, the individual demonstrates devotion, accountability, and service directly to G-d.