Deuteronomy 26:13
Then thou shalt say before the Lord thy God, I have brought away the hallowed things out of mine house, and also have given them unto the Levite, and unto the stranger, to the fatherless, and to the widow, according to all thy commandments which thou hast commanded me: I have not transgressed thy commandments, neither have I forgotten them:
Deuteronomy 26:13 (KJV)
Context
Deuteronomy records Moses’ final instructions to Israel before they entered the Promised Land. This verse concludes a specific ritual: the third-year tithe, also called the year of tithing. In that year, the Israelites were to set aside a tenth of their produce and give it to the Levite, the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow, so they could eat and be satisfied within their towns (Deuteronomy 26:12). Verse 13 is the spoken declaration the worshiper makes before the LORD after completing this act.
Meaning
The declaration is made “before the Lord thy God,” a verbal acknowledgment in God’s presence that the sacred portion has been fully removed from the house and given to the designated recipients. The “hallowed things” are the consecrated tithe, set apart for God and His purposes. This act symbolizes giving back to God from the blessings they have received.
The verse goes on to say that the hallowed things should be given not only to the Levites, who were the priestly tribe, but also to the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow. This demonstrates God’s concern for the marginalized and vulnerable members of society, instructing the Israelites to share their blessings with those in need.
The Israelites are to proclaim before the Lord that they have followed His commandments by fulfilling their obligations of giving to the designated recipients. This highlights the importance of obedience and adherence to God’s instructions. The verse emphasizes complete obedience: the tithe was given “according to all thy commandments,” and the worshiper affirms, “I have not transgressed thy commandments, neither have I forgotten them.” This is a public confession of faithful action, not a claim of sinless perfection.
The immediate context (Deuteronomy 26:14) continues the declaration, stating the worshiper has not eaten the sacred portion while mourning, removed it while unclean, or given it for the dead, showing the tithe was handled with ritual purity and proper reverence.
Biblical connections
The recipients—Levites, strangers, fatherless, and widows—represent those without land or inheritance in Israel, and the tithe was a concrete means of caring for them. The declaration functions as a prayer of dedication and a testimony of faithful stewardship.
Application
Giving back to God: The verse teaches the importance of acknowledging God’s blessings and returning a portion of what He has provided for us. It encourages us to give willingly and generously, not only to God but also to those in need.
Care for the marginalized: God’s concern for the marginalized is evident in this verse. It reminds us of our responsibility to extend care, compassion, and support to those who are less fortunate, such as strangers, orphans, and widows.
Obedience and remembrance: The verse underscores the significance of obedience to God’s commandments and the need to remember them. It encourages us to live in accordance with God’s instructions, demonstrating our love and devotion to Him.
Gratitude and worship: Bringing hallowed things and proclaiming before the Lord is an act of gratitude and worship. It reminds us to express our thankfulness to God for His provisions and to honour Him with our offerings.
Reflection
Overall, Deuteronomy 26:13 serves as a reminder of our duty to be faithful and obedient to God’s commandments, to care for the needy, and to worship Him with grateful hearts.
