To redeem the firstborn donkey by giving a lamb to a Kohen

Faith – אֱמוּנָה

• Rambam (Hilchot Bikkurim 12:1) codifies that even a donkey, a non-kosher animal, is sanctified at birth by Hashem’s command. This strengthens faith by showing that holiness extends beyond what we consider “spiritual,” into all parts of life.

Gratitude – הוֹדָיָה

• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 22) explains that donkeys are singled out because they bore Israel’s wealth during the Exodus. Redeeming the donkey expresses gratitude for Hashem’s past kindness.

Holiness – קְדֻשָּׁה

• Talmud (Bekhorot 5b) notes that the donkey must either be redeemed or destroyed if not redeemed. This underscores its sanctity — the animal cannot simply remain ordinary without acknowledgment.

Agriculture – חַקְלָאוּת

• Donkeys were vital for transport and farming in Israel. The mitzvah integrates agriculture and livelihood into holiness, showing that work animals too fall under Divine law.

Priests – כֹּהֲנִים

• Rambam specifies that the lamb or goat given in redemption goes to the Kohen, supporting his service. This parallels Pidyon HaBen and reinforces the priestly role in the community.

Eretz Yisrael – אֶרֶץ יִשְׂרָאֵל

• While practiced worldwide, the mitzvah has special force in Israel, where agricultural and livestock-related commandments are deeply tied to the land’s sanctity.

Animals – בְּהֵמוֹת

• Rashi (Exodus 13:13) highlights the donkey’s unique role, unlike other non-kosher animals. By elevating the donkey, the Torah teaches compassion and sanctity in how we view even simple creatures.

Community – קְהִלָּה

• The mitzvah ensures that part of a person’s livelihood directly benefits the Kohanim, integrating individual success into communal responsibility.

Reverence – יִרְאַת שָׁמַיִם

• The obligation to break the donkey’s neck if not redeemed (Ex. 13:13) instills reverence, showing the severity of neglecting Hashem’s command.

Bein Adam L’Makom – בֵּין אָדָם לְמָקוֹם

• Fundamentally, the mitzvah is directed toward Hashem, acknowledging His authority over life and property.