Deuteronomy 15:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 15:11
11 For the poor shall never cease out of the land: therefore I command thee, saying, Thou shalt open thine hand wide unto thy brother, to thy poor, and to thy needy, in thy land.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 15 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, sacrifice, discipleship. Written during the end of the wilderness wandering (c. 1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Moses delivered these speeches as Israel prepared to enter a land filled with different Canaanite city-states.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-23: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Deuteronomy and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Deuteronomy 15:11
11 For the poor shall never cease out of the land: therefore I command thee, saying, Thou shalt open thine hand wide unto thy brother, to thy poor, and to thy needy, in thy land.
Analysis
Moses states: 'For the poor shall never cease out of the land: therefore I command thee, saying, Thou shalt open thine hand wide unto thy brother, to thy poor, and to thy needy, in thy land.' The realistic acknowledgment that poverty won't be eradicated doesn't excuse indifference but intensifies obligation—ongoing need requires ongoing generosity. The command to 'open thine hand wide' suggests generous, unstinting giving, not grudging minimum. Jesus quotes this verse (Matthew 26:11), often misunderstood as justifying neglect of the poor. The point is the opposite—perpetual poverty demands perpetual charity.
Historical Context
Despite Israel's unique laws protecting the poor, economic inequality persisted. The prophets repeatedly condemned exploitation of the poor (Amos 5:11-12; Isaiah 10:1-2; Micah 2:1-2). The New Testament church practiced radical generosity (Acts 2:44-45; 4:32-35), reflecting this command. Jesus' statement about perpetual poverty wasn't resignation but recognition—as long as human sin and the curse remain, poverty will exist, requiring continuous compassion.
Reflection
- How does recognizing that poverty won't end prevent cynicism while inspiring ongoing generosity?
- What does 'opening your hand wide' look like practically in your economic life?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 15:8, Proverbs 22:2, Matthew 5:42, 26:11, Mark 14:7, Luke 12:33