Deuteronomy 24:21
When thou gatherest the grapes of thy vineyard, thou shalt not glean it afterward: it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow.
DEUTERONOMY 24:21
This verse expands the gleaning motif to vineyards. Do not reap to the very edges; the leftovers go to the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow. The recurrent refrain is clear: ensure social protection by design, not by chance. The vineyard imagery would be familiar to ancient listeners; it also underscores the ethics of abundance and distribution. It reflects a social covenant that care for the vulnerable remains a constant practice, not a special event.
Themes include compassion, justice as communal virtue, and God’s provision via community generosity. The verse aligns with biblical calls to welcome outsiders and defend the weak, echoing biblical justice motifs that culminate in Jesus’ ministry to the marginalized.
In today’s context, this can inspire workplace or community ethics around resource sharing: if you’re hosting events or running a business with surplus, allocate portions to those who lack access to healthy food, or partner with local shelters. For individuals, practice generosity with leftovers or unneeded items. Create a culture where sharing is normal and expected, especially with neighbors in need.
Cross-References: Leviticus 19:9-10; Psalm 82:3-4; Isaiah 1:17; Luke 14:13