“And if thy brother be waxen poor, and fallen in decay with thee; then thou shalt relieve him: yea, though he be a stranger, or a sojourner; that he may live with thee.”
Context: Leviticus is part of the Pentateuch, also known as the Torah or the Law of Moses. This particular verse is found within the section of Leviticus that deals with laws concerning the Sabbath year and the Year of Jubilee, which were designed to provide social and economic provisions for the Israelites.
Concern for the Poor: The verse begins by addressing the situation of a brother who has become poor and fallen into decay. In this context, “brother” refers to a fellow Israelite. The emphasis is on the concern for the well-being of those who are less fortunate.
Responsibility to Relieve: The verse highlights the responsibility of the Israelites towards their impoverished brethren. It commands them to relieve their brothers by providing assistance and support. This reflects the principle of compassion, care, and solidarity within the community.
Inclusive Care: The verse further extends the call to provide relief to not only fellow Israelites but also to strangers or sojourners. This emphasizes the inclusive nature of the commandment, extending support and care even to those who are not native-born or part of the Israelite community.
Purpose of Relief: The ultimate purpose of offering relief is to enable the person in need to continue living with dignity. The commandment seeks to prevent the deterioration of the individual’s condition and ensure their sustenance and well-being within the community.
Application Today: While the laws of the Sabbath year and the Year of Jubilee may not be directly applicable in the present context, the underlying principles of compassion, care, and support for the less fortunate continue to hold relevance. It encourages believers to be mindful of the needs of others, to extend a helping hand to those in distress, and to promote justice and equality in society.
In summary, Leviticus 25:35 instructs the Israelites to provide relief and support to their impoverished brethren, extending care even to strangers or sojourners. This commandment emphasizes compassion and solidarity within the community, aiming to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to live with dignity. Although the specific laws may not apply today, the underlying principles remain important for believers to practice in their interactions with others.
