Deuteronomy 24:19

If you are harvesting in your field and forget a sheaf there, do not go back to get it. It is to be left for the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow, so that the LORD your God may bless you in all the work of your hands.

Study Bible

If you are harvesting in your field
This phrase sets the scene in an agrarian society where agriculture was the primary means of sustenance and economic activity. The Israelites were primarily farmers, and the harvest was a critical time of year. The field represents the land that God had given to the Israelites as part of the Promised Land, a fulfillment of His covenant with Abraham. The act of harvesting is a reminder of God's provision and the fruitfulness of the land He promised.

and forget a sheaf there
A sheaf is a bundle of grain stalks laid lengthwise and tied together after reaping. Forgetting a sheaf could happen due to the busyness of the harvest. This oversight is not to be corrected by returning to retrieve it. The act of leaving the forgotten sheaf is a test of obedience and trust in God's provision. It reflects the principle of leaving the edges of the field for the poor, as seen in Leviticus 19:9-10.

do not go back to get it
This command emphasizes the importance of generosity and trust in God's provision. By not returning to retrieve the forgotten sheaf, the landowner demonstrates faith that God will provide for their needs despite the loss. This principle of leaving behind part of the harvest for others is a recurring theme in the Mosaic Law, promoting social justice and care for the less fortunate.

It is to be left for the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow
This phrase highlights God's concern for the marginalized and vulnerable in society. The foreigner, fatherless, and widow were often without means of support and were particularly vulnerable in ancient Israel. By providing for them, the Israelites were reflecting God's character and His commands to care for the needy. This provision is a practical application of loving one's neighbor and is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are called to care for widows and orphans (James 1:27).

so that the LORD your God may bless you
The promise of blessing is contingent upon obedience to God's commands. This reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where blessings are often tied to faithfulness and obedience. The blessing is not just material but encompasses spiritual and communal well-being. It underscores the principle that generosity and obedience to God's commands lead to His favor.

in all the work of your hands
This phrase indicates that God's blessing extends beyond the immediate act of leaving the sheaf. It encompasses all aspects of the individual's labor and endeavors. The work of one's hands is a common biblical expression for one's efforts and productivity. This promise of blessing is a reminder that God is the ultimate source of prosperity and success, and it encourages a holistic view of work as an act of worship and service to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The original audience of Deuteronomy, receiving laws and instructions from Moses as they prepared to enter the Promised Land.

2. Foreigners, Fatherless, and Widows
Vulnerable groups in society who were often marginalized and lacked resources.

3. The Field
Represents the agricultural setting of ancient Israel, where the Israelites were to practice these laws.

4. Moses
The leader and prophet who delivered God's laws to the Israelites.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who commands these acts of mercy and promises blessings for obedience.

Teaching Points

God's Heart for the Vulnerable
This verse reveals God's compassion and justice, emphasizing His desire for His people to care for those who are marginalized.

Obedience and Blessing
The promise of blessing for obedience highlights the principle that God rewards those who follow His commands with a sincere heart.

Community Responsibility
The law encourages a communal approach to welfare, where everyone plays a part in supporting the needy.

Generosity as Worship
Leaving behind a portion of the harvest is an act of worship, acknowledging God's provision and sovereignty.

Practical Love
This commandment is a practical expression of love and faith, demonstrating that true faith is active and visible in our actions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Deuteronomy 24:19 reflect God's character and His priorities for His people?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of leaving a "forgotten sheaf" in our modern context to support those in need?

3. How does the account of Ruth and Boaz illustrate the practical application of this law, and what can we learn from their example?

4. What are some modern-day equivalents to the "foreigner, fatherless, and widow" that we are called to support, and how can we do so effectively?

5. How does the promise of blessing for obedience in this verse encourage us to trust and follow God's commands in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 19:9-10
Similar instructions are given about leaving the edges of the field and the gleanings for the poor and the foreigner, emphasizing God's concern for the needy.

Ruth 2
The account of Ruth gleaning in Boaz's field illustrates the practical application of this law and highlights God's provision through obedience.

James 1:27
The New Testament reiterates the importance of caring for orphans and widows, showing continuity in God's concern for the vulnerable.

Matthew 25:35-40
Jesus teaches about serving "the least of these," which aligns with the spirit of Deuteronomy 24:19 in caring for those in need.