Leviticus 27:12

An unclean animal, not suitable for food or sacrifice, could be bought back by the worshiper for its assessed value plus 20 percent. This rule likely aimed to preserve the sanctity of vows and reduce careless dedications. For the 20 percent additional charge on property, see Leviticus 27:15, 19, 31.

This chapter concludes the book by discussing different types of vows. It ends with a rule for redeeming one's tithes (see also chapter Leviticus 25). At certain times, such as emergencies, a person might vow something to God in exchange for answered prayers (see Jonah 2:9). After God answered the prayer, the person might want to ignore the vow. Scripture requires that people vow carefully and then fulfill them (see Leviticus 5:4; Ecclesiastes 5:4–6). Jesus taught that people should not make oaths often or carelessly (Matthew 5:33–37; 23:16–22).