Tobit 4:7 - Give alms from your possessions. When you give alms, don’t let your eye be envious. Don’t turn away your face from any poor man, and the face of God won’t be turned away from you.
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What does "Tobit 4:7" mean?
Tobit 4:7 is a powerful verse emphasizing the importance of charitable giving and the proper attitude with which it should be done. Let's break down the meaning:
"Give alms from your possessions." This is a clear instruction to be generous and share what you have with those in need. Alms refers to charitable donations, especially to the poor. It's a call to practical action and generosity.
"When you give alms, don’t let your eye be envious." This part is crucial. It means don't give grudgingly or resentfully. Don't give while thinking about how much you're losing or how much more you could have if you didn't give. The intention behind the giving is just as important as the act itself. It highlights that true charity comes from a willing and compassionate heart, not obligation or a desire for recognition. Envy in this context can also imply that you shouldn't be envious of the recipient's need or circumstances, as this can taint the act of giving.
"Don’t turn away your face from any poor man, and the face of God won’t be turned away from you." This is about recognizing the inherent dignity of every person, especially those who are less fortunate. To "turn away your face" implies indifference, avoidance, and a lack of compassion. The verse suggests a direct correlation between how we treat the poor and how God treats us. By showing compassion and kindness to those in need, we are more likely to receive God's favor and blessings. It's a reminder that our actions have consequences, both for ourselves and for others.
In summary, Tobit 4:7 is a call to:
Be generous with our resources.
Give with a pure and selfless heart, free from envy or resentment.
Acknowledge and respect the dignity of every person, especially the poor, and to not ignore their needs.
Understand that our actions toward others reflect our relationship with God.
It emphasizes that true charity is not just about the act of giving, but also about the attitude and intention behind it. It's a reminder that showing compassion to others is a way of showing reverence to God.
Tobit 4:7 - Give alms from your possessions. When you give alms, don’t let your eye be envious. Don’t turn away your face from any poor man, and the face of God won’t be turned away from you.
What does "Tobit 4:7" mean?
Tobit 4:7 is a powerful verse emphasizing the importance of charitable giving and the proper attitude with which it should be done. Let's break down the meaning:
"Give alms from your possessions." This is a clear instruction to be generous and share what you have with those in need. Alms refers to charitable donations, especially to the poor. It's a call to practical action and generosity.
"When you give alms, don’t let your eye be envious." This part is crucial. It means don't give grudgingly or resentfully. Don't give while thinking about how much you're losing or how much more you could have if you didn't give. The intention behind the giving is just as important as the act itself. It highlights that true charity comes from a willing and compassionate heart, not obligation or a desire for recognition. Envy in this context can also imply that you shouldn't be envious of the recipient's need or circumstances, as this can taint the act of giving.
"Don’t turn away your face from any poor man, and the face of God won’t be turned away from you." This is about recognizing the inherent dignity of every person, especially those who are less fortunate. To "turn away your face" implies indifference, avoidance, and a lack of compassion. The verse suggests a direct correlation between how we treat the poor and how God treats us. By showing compassion and kindness to those in need, we are more likely to receive God's favor and blessings. It's a reminder that our actions have consequences, both for ourselves and for others.
In summary, Tobit 4:7 is a call to:
Be generous with our resources.
Give with a pure and selfless heart, free from envy or resentment.
Acknowledge and respect the dignity of every person, especially the poor, and to not ignore their needs.
Understand that our actions toward others reflect our relationship with God.
It emphasizes that true charity is not just about the act of giving, but also about the attitude and intention behind it. It's a reminder that showing compassion to others is a way of showing reverence to God.