Definition and Etymology:
Almsdeeds refer to acts of charity or mercy, particularly those involving the giving of money, food, or other assistance to the poor and needy. The term "alms" is derived from the Greek word "eleēmosynē," which means compassion or mercy. In the context of the Bible, almsdeeds are seen as expressions of love and obedience to God's commandments, reflecting His compassion and care for the less fortunate.

Biblical References and Teachings:
Almsdeeds are a significant aspect of biblical teaching, emphasizing the importance of generosity and compassion. In the Old Testament, the Law of Moses includes numerous instructions regarding care for the poor, such as leaving gleanings in the fields for the needy (Leviticus 19:9-10) and providing for the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow (Deuteronomy 24:19-21).

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ highlights the importance of almsgiving as a righteous act. In the Sermon on the Mount, He instructs His followers: "So when you give to the needy, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. Truly I tell you, they already have their reward" (Matthew 6:2). This teaching underscores the importance of sincerity and humility in performing almsdeeds, emphasizing that such acts should be done for God's glory rather than human recognition.

The Book of Acts provides examples of early Christians engaging in almsdeeds. In Acts 9:36, we read about Tabitha (also known as Dorcas), a disciple in Joppa who was "full of good works and acts of charity" . Her life exemplified the Christian commitment to serving others through almsdeeds.

Theological Significance:
Almsdeeds are not merely social or humanitarian acts; they hold deep theological significance. They are seen as a tangible expression of faith and love, reflecting the character of God who is merciful and compassionate. Proverbs 19:17 states, "Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender" , indicating that God values and rewards acts of charity.

Furthermore, almsdeeds are a means of storing up treasures in heaven, as Jesus taught in Matthew 6:19-21. By giving to those in need, believers demonstrate their trust in God's provision and their commitment to eternal values over earthly wealth.

Practical Application:
Christians are encouraged to engage in almsdeeds as part of their daily walk with God. This involves not only giving financially but also offering time, skills, and resources to support those in need. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, often commends the generosity of the early churches and encourages believers to give cheerfully and willingly (2 Corinthians 9:7).

In practicing almsdeeds, Christians are called to be discerning and wise, ensuring that their assistance truly benefits those in need and aligns with biblical principles. The ultimate goal of almsdeeds is to glorify God and advance His kingdom by demonstrating His love and compassion to the world.

Of Almsdeeds (Ten Articles)
... OF ALMSDEEDS (TEN ARTICLES). We must now consider almsdeeds, under which head there
are ten points of inquiry: (1) Whether almsgiving is an act of charity? ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/aquinas/summa theologica/of almsdeeds ten articles .htm

Whether the Different Kinds of Almsdeeds are Suitably Enumerated?
... OF ALMSDEEDS (TEN ARTICLES) Whether the different kinds of almsdeeds are
suitably enumerated? Objection 1: It would seem that the ...
/.../aquinas/summa theologica/whether the different kinds of.htm

Whether Corporal Almsdeeds have a Spiritual Effect?
... OF ALMSDEEDS (TEN ARTICLES) Whether corporal almsdeeds have a spiritual effect?
Objection 1: It would seem that corporal almsdeeds have not a spiritual effect. ...
/.../aquinas/summa theologica/whether corporal almsdeeds have a.htm

Whether Corporal Alms are of More Account than Spiritual Alms?
... OF ALMSDEEDS (TEN ARTICLES) Whether corporal alms are of more account than
spiritual alms? Objection 1: It would seem that corporal ...
/.../aquinas/summa theologica/whether corporal alms are of.htm

Whether one Ought to Give Alms to those Rather who are More ...
... OF ALMSDEEDS (TEN ARTICLES) Whether one ought to give alms to those rather
who are more closely united to us? Objection 1: It would ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/aquinas/summa theologica/whether one ought to give 2.htm

Whether the Works of Satisfaction are Suitably Enumerated?
... three, viz. almsdeeds, fasting, and prayer. For a work of satisfaction
should be penal. But prayer ... them, viz. almsdeeds. Reply to ...
/.../aquinas/summa theologica/whether the works of satisfaction.htm

Whether a Sinner Ought to Reprove a Wrongdoer?
... he has committed a sin. Objection 2: Further, spiritual almsdeeds are of
more account than corporal almsdeeds. Now one who is in ...
//christianbookshelf.org/aquinas/summa theologica/whether a sinner ought to.htm

Whether Almsgiving is an Act of Charity?
... OF ALMSDEEDS (TEN ARTICLES) Whether almsgiving is an act of charity? Objection
1: It would seem that almsgiving is not an act of charity. ...
/.../aquinas/summa theologica/whether almsgiving is an act.htm

John i. 9
... Hear Daniel, saying, "Redeem thy sins by almsdeeds, and thine iniquities by showing
mercy to the poor." ( Daniel 4:27 , LXX.) And there is another besides this ...
/.../homilies on the gospel of st john and hebrews/homily vii john i 9.htm

Letter Lii. To Nepotian.
... Almost all bodily excellences alter with age, and while wisdom alone increases all
things else decay. Fasts and vigils and almsdeeds become harder. ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter lii to nepotian.htm

Almsdeeds (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Almsdeeds (1 Occurrence). Acts 9:36 Now there was at
Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation ...
/a/almsdeeds.htm - 6k

Dorcas (3 Occurrences)
... Dorcas was beloved for the manner in which she used her position and means, for
she "was full of good works, and almsdeeds which she did." Among her charities ...
/d/dorcas.htm - 9k

Alms-deeds (1 Occurrence)
Alms-deeds. Almsdeeds, Alms-deeds. Almsgiving . Multi-Version Concordance ... (DBY
WBS). Almsdeeds, Alms-deeds. Almsgiving . Reference Bible.
/a/alms-deeds.htm - 6k

Alms (13 Occurrences)

/a/alms.htm - 22k

Deeds (309 Occurrences)
... 36 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation
is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she ...
/d/deeds.htm - 33k

Interpretation (45 Occurrences)
... 36 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation
is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she ...
/i/interpretation.htm - 57k

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