Topical Encyclopedia Gleaning refers to the practice of collecting leftover crops from farmers' fields after they have been commercially harvested or from fields where it is not economically profitable to harvest. This practice is deeply rooted in the agricultural laws of ancient Israel and is prominently featured in the Old Testament as a means of providing for the poor, the widow, the orphan, and the foreigner.Biblical Foundation The laws concerning gleaning are primarily found in the Pentateuch, where God commands the Israelites to leave the edges of their fields unharvested and to not pick up what is left behind. This is seen as an act of charity and justice, ensuring that the less fortunate in society have access to food. 1. Leviticus 19:9-10 : "When you reap the harvest of your land, you are not to reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. You must not strip your vineyard bare or gather its fallen grapes. Leave them for the poor and the foreigner. I am the LORD your God." 2. Leviticus 23:22 : "When you reap the harvest of your land, you are not to reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Leave them for the poor and the foreigner. I am the LORD your God." 3. Deuteronomy 24:19-21 : "When you reap the harvest in your field and forget a sheaf there, do not go back to get it. It is to be left for the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow, so that the LORD your God may bless you in all the work of your hands. When you beat the olives from your trees, do not go over the branches again. What remains will be for the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow. When you gather the grapes of your vineyard, do not go over the vines again. What remains will be for the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow." Purpose and Significance The laws of gleaning served multiple purposes in ancient Israelite society. They were a practical means of social welfare, providing sustenance for those who were economically disadvantaged. By leaving portions of the harvest for the poor and the foreigner, the Israelites were reminded of their own dependence on God's provision and their past as sojourners in Egypt. Gleaning also reinforced the principle of stewardship. Landowners were reminded that the land ultimately belonged to God, and they were merely stewards of His creation. This practice encouraged a spirit of generosity and community responsibility, fostering a society where the needs of all members were considered. Cultural and Historical Context In the agrarian society of ancient Israel, the harvest was a critical time of year. The laws of gleaning were not only a divine command but also a cultural norm that shaped the community's approach to agriculture and social justice. The account of Ruth and Boaz in the Book of Ruth provides a vivid illustration of gleaning in action. Ruth, a Moabite widow, gleans in the fields of Boaz, who follows the gleaning laws and allows her to gather grain, ultimately leading to her redemption and marriage to Boaz (Ruth 2:2-23). Theological Implications Theologically, the laws of gleaning reflect God's character as compassionate and just. They demonstrate His concern for the marginalized and His desire for His people to mirror His attributes in their daily lives. The practice of gleaning is a tangible expression of the second greatest commandment: "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Leviticus 19:18). In summary, the laws concerning gleaning are a testament to God's provision and care for all people, particularly the vulnerable. They serve as a reminder of the importance of generosity, stewardship, and community responsibility in the life of faith. Nave's Topical Index Leviticus 19:9,10And when you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not wholly reap the corners of your field, neither shall you gather the gleanings of your harvest. Nave's Topical Index Leviticus 23:22 Deuteronomy 24:19,20 Library Mysterious Prophecies Revealed. On Admonition and Repentance. Introduction to Oration ii. The Strait Gate; The Land and the People. Resources What does the Bible say about being a good student? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a quick summary of each of the 66 books of the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of gleaning in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Gleaning: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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