Text: Deuteronomy 15:19
OT Text Referred to: Exodus 22:29
Subject: firstlings to Yahweh
Source: Treasury of Scripture Knowledge
Reference Type: Allusion
Connection Method(s): Longitudinal Theme
Significance: Exodus 22:29 commands the presentation of firstborn sons and firstborn livestock to the LORD, and Deuteronomy 15:19 specifies the treatment of firstborn animals: "You must set apart to the LORD your God every firstborn male (בְּכוֹר, bekhor) born to your herd and flock. You must not put the firstborn of your oxen to work, nor shear the firstborn of your flock." Deuteronomy adds practical restrictions absent from Exodus—the firstborn animal may not be used for labor or wool production—underscoring that consecration to God means the animal is withdrawn from ordinary economic use. The Deuteronomic version also directs that the firstborn be eaten "year by year" at the place the LORD chooses, connecting the firstborn law to centralized worship.