Topical Encyclopedia Homelessness, as a concept, is not explicitly detailed in the Bible as it is understood in contemporary society. However, the Scriptures provide numerous references to the plight of those without a permanent dwelling, emphasizing God's concern for the marginalized and His call for His people to care for them.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the Israelites themselves experienced a form of homelessness during their 40 years of wandering in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. This period was marked by reliance on God's provision and guidance. Deuteronomy 8:2-3 recounts, "Remember that the LORD your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep His commandments." The Law given to Moses included specific instructions to care for the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow—groups often associated with vulnerability and lack of a permanent home. Leviticus 19:34 commands, "You must treat the foreigner living among you as native-born and love him as yourself, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God." Prophetic Writings The prophets frequently addressed the issue of justice and care for the poor and homeless. Isaiah 58:7 calls for true fasting, which includes "sharing your bread with the hungry, bringing the homeless poor into your home, clothing the naked when you see him, and not turning away from your own flesh and blood." New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, Jesus Christ exemplifies and teaches compassion for the homeless and needy. In Matthew 8:20 , Jesus Himself states, "Foxes have dens and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay His head," highlighting His own experience of homelessness during His earthly ministry. The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) further illustrates the call to love and care for those in need, regardless of their social status or circumstances. The early church also demonstrated this care, as seen in Acts 4:34-35 , where believers shared their possessions so that "there were no needy ones among them." Christian Responsibility The Bible consistently calls believers to act justly and love mercy, as seen in Micah 6:8 : "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" This call extends to addressing the needs of the homeless, reflecting God's heart for justice and compassion. James 2:15-16 challenges believers to demonstrate their faith through action: "Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you tells him, 'Go in peace; stay warm and well fed,' but does not provide for his physical needs, what good is that?" Conclusion The biblical narrative consistently emphasizes God's concern for the homeless and the responsibility of His people to care for them. Through the Law, the Prophets, the teachings of Jesus, and the practices of the early church, Scripture provides a framework for understanding and addressing homelessness with compassion and justice. Strong's Hebrew 4788. marud -- restlessness, straying... Word Origin from rud Definition restlessness, straying NASB Word Usage homeless (1), homelessness (1), wandering (1). cast out, misery. ... /hebrew/4788.htm - 6k Library Sparrows and Altars The Prodigal and his Brother. Christ Repressing Rash Discipleship The Journey to Jerusalem - Chronological Arrangement of the Last ... Life. The Son of Man Seeking Jesus Gershom and Eliezer A Sight of the Crowned Christ Jesus and Peter. Thesaurus Homelessness (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Homelessness (1 Occurrence). Lamentations 1:7 Jerusalem remembers in the days of her affliction and of ... /h/homelessness.htm - 6k Homeless (6 Occurrences) Homely (1 Occurrence) Resources What does the Bible say about being homeless / homelessness? | GotQuestions.orgWorldview on Social Issues ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org What is a vagabond in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Homelessness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Homelessness (1 Occurrence)Lamentations 1:7 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |