Old Testament
Leviticus 19:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Don't strip your vineyard bare or pick up the fallen grapes. Leave them for the poor and for foreigners. I am the LORD your God.
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And thou shalt not glean thy vineyard, neither shalt thou gather every grape of thy vineyard; thou shalt leave them for the poor and stranger: I am the LORD your God.
What Leviticus 19:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 19:10, God instructs the Israelites not to harvest every grape from their vineyards or to pick up the grapes that fall to the ground. This command emphasizes the importance of generosity and care for those in need, specifically the poor and foreigners living among them. By leaving some of the harvest uncollected, the landowners are providing for those who may not have their own means of sustenance. This practice reflects a broader principle of social justice and compassion, reminding the community to look after the vulnerable and ensure that everyone has access to food. The command also reinforces the idea that the land ultimately belongs to God, and humans are stewards of His creation, responsible for sharing its bounty with others. This verse highlights the significance of community support and the moral obligation to help those less fortunate, fostering a spirit of kindness and generosity within society.
How to apply Leviticus 19:10 to your life
In our daily lives, we can apply this principle by being mindful of those in need around us. Whether through donating food, volunteering time, or simply sharing resources, we can ensure that we are not only focused on our own abundance but also on helping others who may be struggling.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Leviticus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 19:10 mean?
Leviticus 19:10 instructs landowners not to harvest all the grapes from their vineyards or pick up fallen grapes, emphasizing the importance of leaving some for the poor and foreigners. This reflects a commitment to generosity and social justice.
What is the significance of leaving grapes for the poor in Leviticus 19:10?
Leaving grapes for the poor in Leviticus 19:10 highlights the moral obligation to care for those in need. It encourages community support and ensures that everyone has access to food, promoting compassion and generosity.
How can we apply Leviticus 19:10 today?
We can apply Leviticus 19:10 by being aware of those in need around us and sharing our resources. This can include donating food, volunteering, or simply helping those who are struggling.
What does the phrase 'I am the LORD your God' mean in this verse?
The phrase 'I am the LORD your God' in Leviticus 19:10 serves as a reminder of God's authority and the importance of following His commands. It reinforces the idea that these instructions are rooted in divine guidance.
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