Deuteronomy 15:8 - but you shall surely open your hand to him, and shall surely lend him sufficient for his need, which he lacks.
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What does "Deuteronomy 15:8" mean?
This verse from Deuteronomy 15:8 is a commandment to be generous and helpful towards those in need within your community. Let's break down the meaning:
"but you shall surely open your hand to him": This means you must be generous and willing to give. The phrase "open your hand" suggests a ready and willing spirit, not a grudging or reluctant one. It implies an active decision to help.
"and shall surely lend him sufficient for his need": This means you should loan (or give, depending on the circumstances and your ability) enough to meet their specific need. It's not just about giving a small token, but providing what is truly required to alleviate their hardship. "Sufficient" emphasizes the importance of meeting the actual need, not just offering a symbolic gesture.
"which he lacks": This highlights that the help should be given to those who are genuinely lacking something essential for their well-being. It emphasizes that the help should be targeted at real needs, not frivolous desires.
In essence, the verse is a call to:
Generosity: Be willing to share your resources.
Practical Help: Provide assistance that actually addresses the person's need.
Empathy: Recognize and respond to the real needs of those around you.
This verse is a cornerstone of the Jewish tradition of tzedakah (righteous giving) and highlights the responsibility to care for the poor and vulnerable within the community. Many interpret this verse as a moral imperative to assist those in need, both materially and practically. It emphasizes not only the act of giving but also the spirit in which it is given - willingly and sufficiently.
Deuteronomy 15:8 - but you shall surely open your hand to him, and shall surely lend him sufficient for his need, which he lacks.
What does "Deuteronomy 15:8" mean?
This verse from Deuteronomy 15:8 is a commandment to be generous and helpful towards those in need within your community. Let's break down the meaning:
"but you shall surely open your hand to him": This means you must be generous and willing to give. The phrase "open your hand" suggests a ready and willing spirit, not a grudging or reluctant one. It implies an active decision to help.
"and shall surely lend him sufficient for his need": This means you should loan (or give, depending on the circumstances and your ability) enough to meet their specific need. It's not just about giving a small token, but providing what is truly required to alleviate their hardship. "Sufficient" emphasizes the importance of meeting the actual need, not just offering a symbolic gesture.
"which he lacks": This highlights that the help should be given to those who are genuinely lacking something essential for their well-being. It emphasizes that the help should be targeted at real needs, not frivolous desires.
In essence, the verse is a call to:
Generosity: Be willing to share your resources.
Practical Help: Provide assistance that actually addresses the person's need.
Empathy: Recognize and respond to the real needs of those around you.
This verse is a cornerstone of the Jewish tradition of tzedakah (righteous giving) and highlights the responsibility to care for the poor and vulnerable within the community. Many interpret this verse as a moral imperative to assist those in need, both materially and practically. It emphasizes not only the act of giving but also the spirit in which it is given - willingly and sufficiently.