Deuteronomy 26:14

"You shall say before the LORD your God, “I have put away the holy things out of my house, and also have given them to the Levite, to the foreigner, to the fatherless, and to the widow, according to all your commandment which you have commanded me. I have not transgressed any of your commandments, neither have I forgotten them."

Key Reflection

In Deuteronomy 26:14, the Israelite offers a declaration before God that he has diligently followed all the divine commands. By mentioning specific acts of charity—giving to the Levites, foreigners, fatherless children, and widows—the speaker underscores his commitment to justice and compassion as commanded by God. This passage highlights the balance between personal piety and communal responsibility, reflecting the broader biblical theme that faith includes ethical behavior towards one's neighbors, particularly the marginalized in society.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

I have not eaten thereof in my mourning -When the Israelite would be unclean (compare the marginal references). Nor given ought thereof for the dead -The reference is not so much to the superstitious custom of placing food on or in tombs as to the funeral expenses, and more especially the usual feast for the mourners (compareJeremiah 16:7;Ezekiel 24:17;Hosea 9:4; Tobit 4:17). The dedicated things were to be employed in glad and holy feasting, not therefore for funeral banquets; for death and all associated with it was regarded as unclean.

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