thinking bible.

You asked

how does this teaching relate to the old testament laws regarding care for the poor and marginalized?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Deuteronomy 15:7-8

If there is with you a poor man, any of your brothers, within any of your gates in your land which Yahweh your God gives you, you shall not harden your heart, nor shut your hand from your poor brother; but you shall open your hand wide to him, and shall surely lend him sufficient for his need, in that which he wants.

These verses are part of the book of Deuteronomy, presented as Moses' final addresses to the Israelites before they enter the promised land. He is reminding them of the covenant laws given at Mount Sinai, providing instructions for how they are to live as a distinct people in their new society.

What does 'sufficient for his need' mean for us today, when needs and resources are so varied and complex?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

  • Leviticus 25:35-37

    This passage also commands lending to the poor without interest, reinforcing the community's responsibility.

  • Proverbs 28:27

    It connects giving to the poor with not lacking, highlighting the wisdom tradition's perspective on generosity.

  • Matthew 25:35-40

    Jesus speaks of identifying with the hungry, thirsty, and imprisoned, expanding the scope of compassion.

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