Old Testament
Leviticus 19:9
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Leviticus 19:9, God instructs the Israelites on how to conduct their harvests.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
"When you harvest your fields, don't cut all the way to the edges, and don't go back to pick up what you missed.
And when ye reap the harvest of your land, thou shalt not wholly reap the corners of thy field, neither shalt thou gather the gleanings of thy harvest.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 19:9, God instructs the Israelites on how to conduct their harvests. They are commanded not to harvest all the way to the edges of their fields and to leave any leftover crops for the poor and the foreigner. This practice of leaving the corners unharvested and not picking up what is missed is a way to ensure that those in need have access to food. It reflects God's concern for social justice and compassion for the marginalized. By allowing the poor to glean from the fields, the Israelites are reminded of their responsibility to care for others and to share their blessings. This commandment emphasizes the importance of generosity and community support, encouraging a culture of sharing rather than hoarding resources. It also serves as a reminder that God provides for everyone, and that the land's produce is a gift that should be shared with those who are less fortunate.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Leviticus 19:9 to your life
In our daily lives, we can apply this principle by being mindful of those in need around us. Whether it’s sharing food, resources, or time, we should look for ways to support others. Creating opportunities for generosity can foster a stronger community and reflect God's love.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 19:9 teach about harvesting crops?
Leviticus 19:9 instructs the Israelites not to harvest their fields completely, specifically leaving the corners unharvested and not picking up what is missed. This command is designed to ensure that the poor and foreigners have access to food, promoting social justice and compassion within the community.
How can we apply the message of Leviticus 19:9 today?
We can apply the message of Leviticus 19:9 by being intentional about sharing our resources with those in need. This could involve donating food, volunteering time, or supporting local charities. By fostering a culture of generosity, we can strengthen our communities and reflect the values of compassion and care for others.
Why is leaving crops for the poor important in Leviticus 19:9?
Leaving crops for the poor is important as it demonstrates God's concern for social justice and the well-being of marginalized individuals. It encourages the Israelites to remember their responsibility to care for others and to share their blessings, reinforcing the idea that everyone deserves access to basic needs like food.
How does Leviticus 19:9 relate to modern concepts of social justice?
Leviticus 19:9 relates to modern concepts of social justice by emphasizing the importance of caring for the vulnerable in society. It encourages practices that promote equity and support for those in need, aligning with contemporary efforts to address poverty and ensure that everyone has access to essential resources.

The Book of Leviticus
Leviticus 1: The Burnt Offering
The LORD calls to Moses from the tabernacle and gives instructions for the burnt offering. A man who brings a burnt offering from the herd presents a male without blemish at the door of the tabernacle. He lays his hand on the head of the offering, kills it, and Aaron's sons the priests sprinkle the blood around the altar. The animal is flayed and cut into pieces, and the whole is burned on the altar as a sweet savor to the LORD.
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