The term "poor man" in the Bible refers to individuals who lack material wealth and resources. The Scriptures address the condition of the poor extensively, offering guidance on how they should be treated and highlighting God's concern for them.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word often translated as "poor" is "ani" or "ebyon," which denotes those who are economically disadvantaged or oppressed. The Law of Moses contains numerous provisions for the care and protection of the poor. For instance, Leviticus 19:9-10 instructs landowners to leave the gleanings of their harvest for the poor and the foreigner: "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."

The Psalms and Proverbs frequently mention the poor, emphasizing God's justice and compassion towards them. Psalm 82:3-4 exhorts, "Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; uphold the rights of the afflicted and oppressed. Rescue the weak and needy; save them from the hand of the wicked." Proverbs 19:17 states, "Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender."

Prophetic Literature

The prophets often rebuked Israel for neglecting the poor and warned of divine judgment for such injustices. Isaiah 58:6-7 calls for true fasting that involves sharing food with the hungry and providing shelter for the homeless: "Is not this the fast that I have chosen: to break the chains of wickedness, to untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, to bring the homeless poor into your home, to clothe the naked when you see him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?"

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ's ministry is marked by a profound concern for the poor. In the Beatitudes, He declares, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:3). This statement highlights both a spiritual humility and a recognition of the material poor's place in God's kingdom.

Jesus' parables often feature the poor, such as the account of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31), which underscores the eternal consequences of neglecting the needy. In Luke 4:18 , Jesus reads from Isaiah, proclaiming His mission: "The Spirit of the Lord is on Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to release the oppressed."

The early church continued this emphasis on caring for the poor. Acts 4:34-35 describes the communal sharing among believers: "There were no needy ones among them, because those who owned lands or houses would sell their property, bring the proceeds from the sales, and lay them at the apostles’ feet for distribution to anyone as he had need."

Theological Implications

The Bible presents the poor as recipients of God's special attention and care. Believers are called to emulate God's compassion by actively supporting and advocating for the poor. James 2:5 reminds Christians, "Listen, my beloved brothers: Has not God chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom He promised those who love Him?"

Throughout Scripture, the treatment of the poor serves as a measure of righteousness and justice, reflecting one's relationship with God. The biblical mandate to care for the poor is not merely a social obligation but a spiritual imperative that aligns with God's heart for justice and mercy.