Deuteronomy 26:13 – “Then say to the Lord your God: ‘I have removed from my house the sacred portion and have given it to the Levite, the foreigner, the fatherless and the widow, according to all you commanded. I have not turned aside from your commands nor have I forgotten any of them.’”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Deuteronomy 26:13 instructs the Israelites on what they are to say to God after they have given the tithe in the third year, known as the “year of the tithe.” This declaration is a formal acknowledgment that they have obeyed God’s command to set aside a portion of their produce and distribute it to those in need—the Levites, foreigners, orphans, and widows. The phrase “sacred portion” refers to the tithe, a tenth of their harvest, which was considered holy and dedicated to God.
This verse emphasizes that giving was not just a charitable act but a sacred duty commanded by God. By stating, “I have not turned aside from your commands nor have I forgotten any of them,” the Israelites were publicly affirming their obedience and faithfulness to God’s instructions. This declaration also served as a reminder to the people that their giving was a spiritual act of worship and not merely a social obligation.
Historical Context
The historical context of Deuteronomy 26:13 is set within the broader system of tithes and offerings that God established for the Israelites. Every third year, instead of bringing the tithe to the temple, the Israelites were to distribute it locally to support those who were dependent on the community’s generosity. This command was part of God’s provision for the Levites, who served in religious duties and had no land inheritance, as well as for foreigners, orphans, and widows who often lacked the means to provide for themselves.
This declaration was made as a testimony of obedience before God. It was not just about fulfilling a legal requirement but about aligning the people’s actions with God’s heart for justice and compassion. The Israelites’ faithfulness in carrying out this command was a critical part of maintaining their covenant relationship with God and ensuring that His blessings were extended to all members of the community.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Deuteronomy 26:13 underscores the importance of obedience to God’s commands, especially in how we handle the resources He has given us. This verse teaches that giving to those in need is not optional for God’s people; it is an integral part of following His will. By declaring their faithfulness in giving, the Israelites were reaffirming their commitment to live according to God’s standards, demonstrating that their trust in God extended to every aspect of their lives, including their finances.
The verse also highlights the idea that giving is an act of worship. The “sacred portion” is dedicated to God, and distributing it to those in need is an act of obedience that honors Him. This teaches us that how we manage what God has entrusted to us is a reflection of our relationship with Him. It reminds us that God cares deeply about justice, generosity, and the well-being of all His people.
Literary Analysis
Literarily, Deuteronomy 26:13 uses formal and declarative language to create a sense of accountability before God. The structure of the verse is instructional, directing the Israelites to make a specific statement that confirms their compliance with God’s commands. The repeated references to obedience—“I have removed,” “I have given,” and “I have not turned aside”—emphasize the deliberate and careful nature of their actions.
The phrase “sacred portion” elevates the act of giving from a mere transaction to a holy act, showing that this portion of their harvest was set apart for a divine purpose. The inclusion of specific groups—the Levite, the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow—serves to highlight God’s concern for the marginalized and the communal responsibility to care for them. This focus on community and obedience reinforces the collective nature of Israel’s covenant with God.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Malachi 3:10 – “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing.” This verse emphasizes the importance of faithful tithing and God’s promise to bless those who obey.
- Isaiah 1:17 – “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.” This passage reflects God’s ongoing command to care for the vulnerable, aligning with the purpose of the tithe in Deuteronomy.
- James 1:27 – “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress.” This New Testament verse echoes the principle of caring for those in need, as instructed in the Old Testament.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Deuteronomy 26:13 teaches the importance of intentional and faithful giving. It challenges believers to see their resources as “sacred portions” entrusted to them by God, meant to be used not just for personal gain but for the benefit of others, especially those in need. This verse encourages Christians to be mindful of how they use what God has given them and to see their giving as an act of obedience and worship.
This verse also reminds us that our faithfulness in giving reflects our commitment to God’s commands. It’s not enough to simply give; our giving should be done with the right heart and in accordance with God’s instructions. This passage calls us to be deliberate and thoughtful in how we share our blessings, recognizing that our generosity is a reflection of God’s own generous nature.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Deuteronomy 26:13 reflects God’s love through His concern for the vulnerable and His provision for their needs. God’s commands to set aside a portion of the harvest for those who have less show that His heart is deeply moved by compassion and justice. By instructing His people to care for the Levites, foreigners, orphans, and widows, God demonstrates that His love extends to all, especially those who are often overlooked.
God’s love is also seen in how He involves His people in His work of caring for others. By following this command, the Israelites participated in God’s love and generosity, becoming instruments of His care in their community. This verse teaches us that God’s love is not just something we receive but something we are called to share with others through our actions.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodied God’s command to care for the needy and live a life of obedience to God’s will. Jesus frequently reached out to those on the margins of society—the poor, the sick, and the outcast—showing that God’s heart is always inclined toward the vulnerable. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus teaches, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me,” directly linking acts of kindness and generosity to serving Him.
Jesus also fulfilled the law perfectly, living a life of complete obedience to God’s commands. His sacrificial death on the cross was the ultimate act of giving, offering Himself as a “sacred portion” for our salvation. Through Christ, we see the perfect example of living out God’s commands and sharing God’s love with the world.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you ensure that your giving is intentional, faithful, and aligned with God’s commands?
- In what ways can you reflect God’s heart for the vulnerable in your own acts of generosity?
- How does viewing your resources as a “sacred portion” change your perspective on stewardship and giving?
- What does this verse teach us about the importance of obedience in our relationship with God?
- How can you follow Jesus’ example of caring for the least of these in your everyday life?
This verse calls us to faithful obedience in our giving, reminding us that our generosity is both an act of worship and a reflection of God’s love and provision for all people.