Definition and Context
The act of begging, in biblical terms, refers to the practice of asking for alms or assistance, typically due to poverty or disability. In the ancient Near Eastern context, begging was a common sight, especially in urban areas and near places of worship, where the needy hoped to receive charity from those attending religious services.

Old Testament References
The Old Testament provides several insights into the societal and religious attitudes towards the poor and those who beg. The Law of Moses includes provisions for the care of the poor, emphasizing the importance of generosity and compassion. Deuteronomy 15:7-8 states, "If there is a poor man among your brothers within any of the gates in the land that the LORD your God is giving you, you are not to harden your heart or shut your hand from your poor brother. Instead, you are to open your hand to him and freely loan him whatever he needs."

The Psalms also reflect on the condition of the poor and the righteous response to their needs. Psalm 37:25 declares, "I have been young and now am old, yet never have I seen the righteous abandoned or their children begging for bread." This verse suggests a divine provision for the righteous, implying that those who follow God's ways will not be left destitute.

New Testament References
In the New Testament, the act of begging is often associated with individuals who are physically disabled or otherwise unable to support themselves. One notable example is the blind beggar Bartimaeus, who calls out to Jesus for mercy in Mark 10:46-52. Jesus responds to his faith by restoring his sight, illustrating the compassion of Christ towards those in need.

The early Christian community is depicted as one that actively cares for the poor and needy. Acts 3:2-6 recounts the account of a lame man who was carried daily to the temple gate called Beautiful to beg for alms. Peter and John, upon encountering him, offer healing in the name of Jesus Christ rather than money, demonstrating the transformative power of the Gospel.

Theological Implications
The act of begging in the Bible is often portrayed as a condition that elicits compassion and action from the faithful. The Scriptures consistently call believers to respond to the needs of the poor with generosity and kindness. Proverbs 19:17 states, "Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender." This reflects the belief that caring for the needy is a direct service to God Himself.

Furthermore, the act of begging serves as a reminder of human dependency on God. Just as beggars rely on the mercy of others, believers are called to recognize their own spiritual poverty and need for God's grace. The Beatitudes, as recorded in Matthew 5:3 , begin with, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven," highlighting the virtue of recognizing one's need for God.

Practical Considerations
In practical terms, the biblical response to begging involves both immediate assistance and long-term solutions. The early church set an example by sharing resources and ensuring that no member was in need (Acts 4:34-35). This communal approach underscores the importance of addressing the root causes of poverty and providing sustainable support.

Believers are encouraged to discern wisely when responding to beggars, balancing compassion with stewardship. The call to help the poor is clear, yet it is also important to consider the most effective ways to offer assistance, whether through direct aid, support of charitable organizations, or advocacy for systemic change.