Disposition of Things Vowed. In fulfillment of a vow, any person or possession, including land, could be offered to Jehovah, except what had already been set apart for Him by the Law​—the firstborn, firstfruits, tithes, and the like. (Le 27:26, 30, 32) That which was vowed as “sanctified” (Heb., qoʹdhesh, something set aside as holy, for sacred use) could be redeemed by a certain payment to the sanctuary (except clean animals). (Le 27:9-27) However, anything “devoted” (Heb., cheʹrem) could not be redeemed, but it was to be completely and permanently the property of the sanctuary or, if devoted to destruction, was to be destroyed without fail.​—Le 27:28, 29.

Parents could make vows in connection with their children, as Hannah did regarding Samuel. (1Sa 1:11; compare Jg 11:30, 31, 39.) In these instances the children cooperated in carrying out the vow.