Deuteronomy 26:13

Then you shall declare in the presence of 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 the commandments You have given me. I have not transgressed or forgotten Your commandments.

Study Bible

Then you shall say before the LORD your God
This phrase emphasizes the act of verbal confession and acknowledgment before God. In the Hebrew context, speaking before the LORD signifies a solemn declaration, a covenantal act that is both personal and communal. The Israelites were to recognize God's sovereignty and their accountability to Him. This public declaration underscores the importance of transparency and integrity in one's relationship with God, reflecting a heart aligned with His will.

I have removed from my house the sacred portion
The "sacred portion" refers to the tithe, a tenth of one's produce, which was set apart for God. The Hebrew root for "sacred" (קָדַשׁ, qadash) implies something consecrated or holy. By removing it from their house, the Israelites demonstrated obedience and reverence, acknowledging that all they possessed was ultimately God's provision. This act of setting apart what is holy serves as a reminder of the call to live a life dedicated to God, prioritizing His commands over personal gain.

and have given it to the Levite, the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow
This phrase highlights the social justice aspect of the law. The Levites, who had no inheritance of land, relied on the tithes for sustenance. The inclusion of the foreigner, fatherless, and widow reflects God's heart for the marginalized and vulnerable. The Hebrew culture was deeply communal, and this command ensured that the community cared for all its members. It serves as a timeless reminder of the Christian duty to love and serve others, especially those in need, as an expression of God's love.

according to all the commandments You have given me
This phrase underscores the comprehensive nature of God's law. The Israelites were to follow God's commandments fully, not selectively. The Hebrew word for "commandments" (מִצְוָה, mitzvah) conveys a sense of divine obligation. This reflects the belief that God's laws are not burdensome but are given for the well-being of His people. It challenges believers to embrace God's commands wholeheartedly, trusting in His wisdom and goodness.

I have not transgressed or forgotten Your commandments
Here, the speaker affirms their faithfulness and mindfulness in observing God's laws. The Hebrew word for "transgressed" (עָבַר, avar) means to pass over or go beyond, indicating a deliberate act of disobedience. "Forgotten" (שָׁכַח, shakach) suggests neglect or disregard. This declaration is a testament to the importance of intentionality in one's spiritual walk. It inspires believers to remain vigilant and committed to God's Word, continually seeking to align their lives with His truth.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, to whom the Israelites are making their declaration.

2. The Israelites
The people of God who are commanded to follow His laws and statutes, including the giving of tithes.

3. The Levite
Members of the tribe of Levi, who were set apart for religious duties and did not have a land inheritance.

4. The Foreigner (Sojourner)
Non-Israelites living among the Israelites, who were to be treated with justice and compassion.

5. The Fatherless and the Widow
Vulnerable members of society who were to be cared for by the community, reflecting God's justice and mercy.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Obedience
The declaration in Deuteronomy 26:13 emphasizes the importance of faithfully following God's commandments. Believers today are called to be diligent in their obedience to God's Word, ensuring that they do not forget or neglect His commands.

Generosity and Justice
The passage highlights God's heart for justice and generosity, particularly towards those who are vulnerable. Christians are encouraged to reflect God's character by being generous and just, supporting those in need within their communities.

Community Responsibility
The inclusion of the Levite, foreigner, fatherless, and widow in the distribution of the sacred portion underscores the communal responsibility to care for all members of society. Believers are called to actively participate in their communities, ensuring that no one is left without support.

Remembrance of God's Commands
The act of declaring one's faithfulness to God's commands serves as a reminder to continually keep His Word at the forefront of our lives. Regular reflection on Scripture helps believers remain aligned with God's will.

Holistic Worship
The giving of tithes and offerings is an act of worship that goes beyond ritual, reflecting a heart fully devoted to God. Christians are encouraged to view their giving as an integral part of their worship and relationship with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to care for the Levite, foreigner, fatherless, and widow reflect God's character, and how can we apply this in our modern context?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are not forgetting or neglecting God's commandments in our daily lives?

3. How does the principle of community responsibility in Deuteronomy 26:13 challenge our individualistic culture today?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate generosity and justice in our local church and community?

5. How can the act of giving be seen as an integral part of our worship and relationship with God, according to both the Old and New Testaments?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 27
Discusses the laws regarding tithes and offerings, providing a broader context for the sacred portion mentioned in Deuteronomy 26:13.

James 1:27
Emphasizes the importance of caring for orphans and widows, echoing the command to support the fatherless and the widow.

Malachi 3:10
Encourages bringing the full tithe into the storehouse, highlighting the importance of faithfulness in giving.

Matthew 25:35-40
Jesus speaks about serving "the least of these," which aligns with the care for the foreigner, fatherless, and widow.

Acts 6:1-7
The early church's response to the needs of widows, demonstrating the continued importance of this command in the New Testament.