What Does the Bible Say About Caring for the Poor — In Biblical Context
The Bible commands compassion for the poor, warning that neglecting them dishonors God, and promising blessings to those who help the needy.
The Bible commands compassion for the poor, warning that neglecting them dishonors God, and promising blessings to those who help the needy.
"He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again." — Proverbs 19:17 (KJV)
The Biblical Context
Care for the poor is a major biblical theme. The Mosaic Law included provisions for the needy: gleaning laws (Leviticus 19:9-10), the year of Jubilee (Leviticus 25), and cancellation of debts every seven years (Deuteronomy 15:1). Proverbs 19:17 says, 'He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.' Proverbs 14:31 warns, 'He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor.' The prophets thundered against injustice: Amos condemned those who 'sold the righteous for silver, and the poor for a pair of shoes' (Amos 2:6). Jesus announced His mission included preaching 'the gospel to the poor' (Luke 4:18). James defined 'pure religion' as visiting 'the fatherless and widows in their affliction' (James 1:27). The early church organized systematic care for widows and the needy (Acts 6:1-6). Caring for the poor is not optional — it is a non-negotiable expression of genuine faith.
Where It Sits in Scripture
The core passage for this question, Proverbs 19:17, sits inside Proverbs 19. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.
"He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again."
Supporting Passages
"Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world."
"Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."
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