Deuteronomy 14:29
And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest.
Deuteronomy 14:29 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse, found in the book of Deuteronomy, emphasizes the importance of caring for those in need within the community. It highlights the duty to provide for the Levites, strangers, fatherless, and widows who are among the people. The Levites, who served as priests and did not have the same inheritance as the other tribes, were to be supported by the community. The strangers, fatherless, and widows were also vulnerable members who needed assistance and were to be included in the communal meals. By ensuring that these individuals are cared for and provided with food, the people are demonstrating their obedience to God's command to love and care for others. The verse also promises a blessing from the Lord for those who actively participate in helping those in need. This act of generosity and compassion towards the less fortunate is seen as a way to invite God's blessings upon all the work of the people's hands. It serves as a reminder to always be mindful of those who may be struggling and to extend a helping hand whenever possible, knowing that God will bless and prosper the community that practices such kindness and care.
Theological Overview
This verse, Deuteronomy 14:29, highlights God's heart for justice and compassion towards specific groups of people who are vulnerable and marginalized in society. By instructing the Israelites to care for the Levites, the strangers, the fatherless, and the widows within their gates, God emphasizes the importance of providing for those who may not have the same resources or support as others. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores God's desire for His people to show kindness and generosity towards those in need, reflecting His own character as a compassionate and loving God. Word studies on terms like "Levite," "stranger," "fatherless," and "widow" help to deepen our understanding of the specific groups of people God cares about deeply. The promise of God's blessing for those who practice hospitality and generosity towards these individuals serves as a reminder of the reciprocity of love and care within the community of believers.
Deuteronomy 14:29 in other translations
American Standard Version
and the Levite, because he hath no portion nor inheritance with thee, and the sojourner, and the fatherless, and the widow, that are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that Jehovah thy God may bless thee in all the work of thy hand which thou doest.
World English Bible
The Levite, because he has no portion nor inheritance with you, and the foreigner living among you, and the fatherless, and the widow, who are within your gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that Yahweh your God may bless you in all the work of your hand which you do.
Douay-Rheims
And the Levite that hath no other part nor possession with thee, and the stranger and the fatherless and the widow, that are within thy gates, shall come and shall eat and be filled: that the Lord thy God may bless thee in all the works of thy hands that thou shalt do.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then ye Leuite shall come, because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee, and the stranger, and the fatherlesse, and the widowe, which are within thy gates, and shall eate, and be filled, that the Lord thy God may blesse thee in al the worke of thine hand which thou doest.