Deuteronomy 15:7-8
“If there is with you a poor man, one 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, whatever his need may be.”
This passage is part of Moses's address to the Israelites before they enter the promised land, laying out laws and principles for their society. It emphasizes how they are to treat the poor among them, linking it to their covenant relationship with God.
How might community structures today encourage or discourage individuals from opening their hands to those in need?