Deuteronomy 14:29 Meaning and Explanation
“And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The local tithe supports Levites, strangers, the fatherless, and widows, so they may eat and be satisfied.
The Context of Deuteronomy 14:29
Conclusion: third-year tithe ensures vulnerable community members are fed and cared for.
What Does Deuteronomy 14:29 Mean?
The third-year tithe becomes a local welfare system: Levites (lacking land), resident aliens (lacking roots), orphans, and widows (lacking protection) all draw from it. These are Israel's most vulnerable members.
The promise of blessing—'that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand'—ties social provision to divine favor. Caring for the vulnerable is itself a way to please God and secure His blessing.
Deuteronomy 14:29 in the Original Language
satisfied (שָׂבַע, sabah) — filled, satiated; the goal is not mere sustenance but real satisfaction and dignity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 14:29
What does Deuteronomy 14:29 mean?
The local tithe supports Levites, strangers, the fatherless, and widows, so they may eat and be satisfied.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 14:29?
Conclusion: third-year tithe ensures vulnerable community members are fed and cared for.