Leviticus 19:9 Meaning and Explanation
“And when ye reap the harvest of your land, thou shalt not wholly reap the corners of thy field, neither shalt thou gather the gleanings of thy harvest.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Leave the corners and fallen grain for the poor and needy.
The Context of Leviticus 19:9
Begins laws on caring for the poor and vulnerable.
What Does Leviticus 19:9 Mean?
The command shifts from sacrifice to economic justice. Farmers must deliberately leave portions of their harvest unharvested, providing for the poor without requiring charity—they can gather it themselves. This preserves their dignity while ensuring their survival.
The practice roots justice in the land itself. By making the land yield for both rich and poor, God's care extends through the economic system. This reflects the broader principle that all land ultimately belongs to God and must serve His justice.
Leviticus 19:9 in the Original Language
leket (לֶקֶט), 'gleanings' — the grain that falls during harvest, left for poor and strangers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 19:9
What does Leviticus 19:9 mean?
Leave the corners and fallen grain for the poor and needy.
What is the context of Leviticus 19:9?
Begins laws on caring for the poor and vulnerable.