Deuteronomy 24:19
When thou cuttest down thine harvest in thy field, and hast forgot a sheaf in the field, thou shalt not go again to fetch it: it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow: that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hands.
Deuteronomy 24:19 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Deuteronomy explains the importance of leaving behind a portion of one's harvest for those in need. The verse emphasizes the values of generosity and compassion, instructing that if a sheaf is forgotten during the harvest, it should not be retrieved but left for the stranger, fatherless, and widow. This act of giving is seen as a way to show care and provision for those who are vulnerable and less fortunate in society. By following this commandment, believers are not only assisting the marginalized but also acknowledging that all blessings ultimately come from the Lord. The verse highlights the importance of remembering and caring for those who are often overlooked, as a way to receive the blessings of God in return for their kindness and generosity towards others.
Theological Overview
This verse from Deuteronomy 24:19 emphasizes the importance of caring for those who are less fortunate. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the principle of gleaning, which was a provision in the Old Testament that allowed the poor, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow to gather leftover crops from the fields after the harvest. By leaving some sheaves in the field, the landowner was demonstrating compassion and generosity towards those in need. In addition to the practical benefits for the disadvantaged, this act of generosity was seen as a way to show obedience to God's commandments and to invite His blessing upon the labor of one's hands. Through this provision, God's justice and mercy are reflected in the social and economic practices of the community. This verse serves as a reminder to individuals and communities to act with compassion and generosity towards those who are marginalized, trusting in God's provision and blessing for all.
Deuteronomy 24:19 in other translations
American Standard Version
When thou reapest thy harvest in thy field, and hast forgot a sheaf in the field, thou shalt not go again to fetch it: it shall be for the sojourner, for the fatherless, and for the widow; that Jehovah thy God may bless thee in all the work of thy hands.
World English Bible
When you reap your harvest in your field, and have forgotten a sheaf in the field, you shall not go again to get it. It shall be for the foreigner, for the fatherless, and for the widow; that Yahweh your God may bless you in all the work of your hands.
Douay-Rheims
When thou hast reaped the corn in thy field, and hast forgot and left a sheaf, thou shalt not return to take it away: but thou shalt suffer the stranger, and the fatherless and the widow to take it away: that the Lord thy God may bless thee in all the works of thy hands.
Geneva Bible (1599)
When thou cuttest downe thine haruest in thy fielde, and hast forgotten a sheafe in the fielde, thou shalt not goe againe to fet it, but it shalbe for the stranger, for the fatherles, and for the widowe: that the Lord thy God may blesse thee in all the workes of thine hands.