Definition and Context
Gleaning refers to the practice of collecting leftover crops from farmers' fields after they have been commercially harvested or from fields where it is not economically profitable to harvest. This practice is deeply rooted in the agricultural and social laws of ancient Israel, as outlined in the Old Testament. Gleaning was a provision made for the poor, the widow, the orphan, and the foreigner, allowing them to gather food for themselves and their families.

Biblical References
The concept of gleaning is primarily found in the Pentateuch, where it is established as part of the Mosaic Law. In Leviticus 19:9-10 , the Israelites are commanded: "When you reap the harvest of your land, you are not to reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. You must not strip your vineyard bare or gather its fallen grapes. Leave them for the poor and the foreigner. I am the LORD your God." This command is reiterated in Leviticus 23:22 and Deuteronomy 24:19-21, emphasizing the importance of caring for the marginalized in society.

Historical and Cultural Significance
Gleaning served as a social safety net in ancient Israel, reflecting God's concern for justice and compassion. It was a practical application of the broader biblical principle of loving one's neighbor and providing for those in need. The practice ensured that the poor could maintain their dignity by working for their food rather than relying solely on charity.

The Book of Ruth
The Book of Ruth provides a vivid narrative example of gleaning. Ruth, a Moabite widow, gleans in the fields of Boaz, a relative of her deceased husband. Boaz's kindness and adherence to the gleaning laws allow Ruth to gather enough grain to support herself and her mother-in-law, Naomi. Ruth 2:2-3 states, "And Ruth the Moabitess said to Naomi, 'Please let me go into the fields and glean heads of grain after someone in whose sight I may find favor.' 'Go ahead, my daughter,' Naomi replied. So Ruth departed and went out into the field and gleaned after the harvesters." This account not only highlights the practical application of the gleaning laws but also illustrates themes of loyalty, providence, and redemption.

Theological Implications
Gleaning underscores the biblical themes of mercy, provision, and community responsibility. It reflects God's character as a provider and protector of the vulnerable. The laws concerning gleaning remind believers of their duty to care for the less fortunate and to act justly in their economic dealings. The practice also points to the broader biblical narrative of God's redemptive work, as seen in the account of Ruth, which ultimately leads to the lineage of King David and, by extension, Jesus Christ.

Modern Application
While the specific practice of gleaning may not be directly applicable in modern industrialized societies, the principles behind it remain relevant. Christians are called to be generous and to care for the poor and marginalized in their communities. This can be expressed through various forms of social justice, charity, and community support, reflecting the heart of God as demonstrated in the Scriptures.

Christian Perfection
... but ours "exceeds in glory." [2:Cor.3:7-9] So that whosoever would bring down the
Christian dispensation to the Jewish standard, whosoever gleans up the ...
/.../wesley/sermons on several occasions/sermon 40 christian perfection.htm

Gleans (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Gleans (1 Occurrence). ... Yes, it will be like when
one gleans grain in the valley of Rephaim. (WEB RSV NIV). ...
/g/gleans.htm - 6k

Gleanings (8 Occurrences)

/g/gleanings.htm - 9k

Glede (1 Occurrence)

/g/glede.htm - 8k

Gathers (27 Occurrences)
... Yes, it will be like when one gleans grain in the valley of Rephaim. (WEB RSV NIV).
Isaiah 33:4 Your spoil will be gathered as the caterpillar gathers. ...
/g/gathers.htm - 14k

Reaps (6 Occurrences)
... harvester gathers the wheat, and his arm reaps the grain. Yes, it will be
like when one gleans grain in the valley of Rephaim. (WEB). ...
/r/reaps.htm - 7k

Rephaim (32 Occurrences)
... the grain. Yes, it will be like when one gleans grain in the valley of
Rephaim. (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV). Isaiah ...
/r/rephaim.htm - 21k

Wheat (56 Occurrences)
... and his arm reaps the grain. Yes, it will be like when one gleans grain
in the valley of Rephaim. (WEB). Isaiah 28:25 When he has ...
/w/wheat.htm - 28k

Harvester (2 Occurrences)
... and his arm reaps the grain. Yes, it will be like when one gleans grain
in the valley of Rephaim. (WEB). Jeremiah 9:22 Speak, Thus ...
/h/harvester.htm - 7k

Arm (110 Occurrences)
... grain. Yes, it will be like when one gleans grain in the valley of Rephaim.
(WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). Isaiah ...
/a/arm.htm - 42k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus