Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the treatment of the poor and the ethical considerations surrounding their possessions are addressed with significant concern. One specific area of focus is the prohibition against retaining the garments of the poor as a pledge. This principle is rooted in the broader biblical mandate to act justly and compassionately towards those in need.Biblical References The primary scriptural basis for this principle is found in the Mosaic Law, which provides explicit instructions regarding the treatment of the poor. In Exodus 22:26-27 , it is written: "If you take your neighbor’s cloak as collateral, return it to him by sunset, because his cloak is the only covering he has for his body. What else will he sleep in? And if he cries out to Me, I will hear, for I am compassionate." This passage underscores the necessity of returning a poor person's garment before nightfall, recognizing the garment's essential role as both clothing and bedding. Deuteronomy 24:12-13 further elaborates on this command: "If he is a poor man, you must not go to sleep with the security in your possession; be sure to return it to him by sunset so that he may sleep in his own cloak and bless you. And it will be credited to you as righteousness before the LORD your God." Here, the act of returning the garment is not only a matter of justice but also an opportunity for the lender to receive a blessing and be deemed righteous in the eyes of God. Theological Implications The prohibition against retaining the garments of the poor as a pledge reflects a deep theological concern for the dignity and well-being of every individual, particularly the vulnerable. The garment, often a cloak, was a basic necessity for survival, serving as protection against the elements and as a blanket during the night. By mandating its return, the law emphasizes the importance of preserving the dignity and humanity of the poor. This commandment also highlights the character of God as compassionate and just. The divine expectation is that His people will mirror these attributes in their dealings with one another. The law serves as a reminder that material possessions should never be prioritized over human welfare and that the needs of the poor should be met with empathy and fairness. Practical Application In practical terms, this principle calls for a community that is attentive to the needs of its members, ensuring that the basic necessities of life are accessible to all. It challenges individuals to consider the impact of their actions on the less fortunate and to act in ways that uphold justice and mercy. The biblical mandate to return the garment by sunset serves as a timeless reminder of the responsibility to care for one's neighbor and to act with integrity in all financial dealings. Cultural and Historical Context In ancient Israel, the garment was often one of the few possessions a poor person owned. The law's provision to return it by sunset reflects the agrarian and communal lifestyle of the time, where personal relationships and community welfare were paramount. This context underscores the importance of maintaining social harmony and ensuring that the vulnerable were not further marginalized by economic practices. The biblical injunction against retaining the garments of the poor as a pledge is a profound expression of God's justice and compassion, calling His people to reflect these values in their interactions with one another. Torrey's Topical Textbook Deuteronomy 24:12,13And if the man be poor, you shall not sleep with his pledge: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Saint Helena and the Time of Constantine Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ... A Discourse Light for them that Sit in Darkness; The Desire of the Righteous Granted; Period iii. The Dissolution of the Imperial State Church and the ... Chaldaean Civilization Faustus States his Objections to the Morality of the Law and the ... Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus. Justification by an Imputed Righteousness; Resources What was the significance of the priestly garments? | GotQuestions.orgWhat did it mean to tear one's clothes in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Is there any significance to colors in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Garments: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Garments of Israel Preserved for Forty Years Garments of the Poor used As a Covering by Night Garments of the Poor: Not to be Retained in Pledge Garments of the Poor: Provided Specially by God Garments of the Rich of the Finest Materials Garments of the Rich: Embroidered Garments of the Rich: Gorgeous Garments of the Rich: Multiplied and Heaped Up Garments of the Rich: Often Moth-Eaten Garments of the Rich: Perfumed Garments of the Sexes, not to be Interchanged Garments of Those Slain With a Sword not Used Garments were often Fringed and Bordered Garments: (Rolled in Blood) Victory Garments: (Washed in Wine) Abundance Garments: (White) Righteousness Garments: Cleansed by Water from Ceremonial Uncleanness Garments: Colours of, Mentioned: Blue Garments: Colours of, Mentioned: Different Colours Garments: Colours of, Mentioned: Purple Garments: Colours of, Mentioned: Scarlet Garments: Colours of, Mentioned: White Garments: Girt up During Employment Garments: Given As a Token of Covenants Garments: Grew Old and Wore Out Garments: Hyke or Upper Garment Garments: Liable to Plague and Leprosy Garments: Materials Used for Camel's Hair Garments: Materials Used for Linen Garments: Materials Used for Sackcloth Garments: Materials Used for Silk Garments: Materials Used for Skins Garments: Materials Used for Wool Garments: Not to be Made of Mixed Materials Garments: Often Rent in Affliction Garments: Scribes and Pharisees Condemned for Making Broad the Borders Garments: Worn Long and Flowing Related Terms |
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