This verse is part of the laws that were given to the Israelites through Moses, and it instructs them to be compassionate towards their fellow Israelites who are poor and unable to support themselves. It calls on the Israelites to help their fellow citizens in need, in the same way that they would help a foreigner or stranger. This verse reflects a principle of kindness, generosity, and community care that is present in many cultural traditions.
In verse 35, the Israelites are instructed to help their fellow Israelites who have fallen into poverty and are unable to support themselves. The verse emphasizes the importance of treating the poor with compassion and generosity, and it underscores the idea that all members of the community have a responsibility to care for one another.
In addition to Leviticus 25:35, which instructs the Israelites to help their fellow citizens in need, the book of Leviticus contains other laws and commandments related to caring for the poor and vulnerable.
For example, Leviticus 19:9-10 states: "When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Do not go over your vineyard a second time or pick up the grapes that have fallen. Leave them for the poor and the foreigner. I am the Lord your God."
This law instructs the Israelites to leave some of the produce from their fields and vineyards for the poor and needy. This was a way of ensuring that everyone in the community had access to food, even if they did not own land or have the means to buy food.
Similarly, Leviticus 23:22 states: "When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Leave them for the poor and for the foreigner residing among you. I am the Lord your God."
This law repeats the instruction to leave some of the harvest for the poor and foreigner, emphasizing the importance of caring for those who are marginalized or disadvantaged.
The book of Leviticus also contains regulations related to tithing and giving to the poor. Leviticus 27:30-32 instructs the Israelites to give a tenth of their crops and livestock to the Lord, and Leviticus 19:9-10, as mentioned above, instructs them to leave some of their harvest for the poor.
In addition to the specific instructions given in this verse, the book of Leviticus contains many other laws and commandments related to social justice and ethical behavior. It contains laws and regulations regarding the Sabbath Year and the Year of Jubilee, which were part of the religious and social practices of ancient Israel. The chapter outlines rules for the use and ownership of land, including instructions on resting the land every seventh year, returning land to its original owners during the Year of Jubilee, and providing for the needs of the poor and vulnerable in the community.
Overall, the book of Leviticus emphasizes the importance of caring for the poor and vulnerable in the community. These laws and regulations were intended to help ensure that everyone had access to basic needs such as food and shelter, and to promote a sense of social justice and compassion among the Israelites.
Leviticus 25:35. If your brother has become poor, and his hand can’t support himself among you; then you shall uphold him.