Mitzvah #168 - Redeeming the firstborn

Thirty days after a firstborn son is born, his father needs to redeem him, by giving 5 Shekalim (~117 grams of silver) or items of equivalent value to a Cohen.

The Cohen can use the money for anything he wants, it has no Kedusha - sanctity.

One who had no father at the time, needs to redeem himself when he becomes an adult.

If the firstborn's father or mother are Cohanim or Levi'im, he does not need to be redeemed.

Applies to Israelites, everywhere, always

Verse: "..redeem the firstborn male son. Redeem him at one month old." (Bemidbar 18:15-16)

Source: The Chafetz-Chaim's Sefer haMitzvot haKatzar; Positive Mitzvah 54

- Danny
Monday, 2 Tamuz 5770