Text: Deuteronomy 15:19
OT Text Referred to: Leviticus 22:20
Subject: firstborn consecration
Source: Treasury of Scripture Knowledge
Reference Type: Allusion
Connection Method(s): Longitudinal Theme
Significance: Leviticus 22:20 establishes the general prohibition against offering any blemished (מוּם, mum) animal, as "it will not be acceptable." Deuteronomy 15:19 narrows the application to firstborn animals specifically: "You shall set apart to the LORD your God every firstborn male of your herd and flock; you shall not put the firstborn of your oxen to work, nor shear the firstborn of your flock." The Deuteronomic version integrates the Levitical quality standard with the firstborn consecration law, creating a combined regulation: firstborn animals belong to God and must meet the unblemished standard. The prohibition against working or shearing them ensures they remain consecrated and undamaged for sacrifice.