Definition: When thou cuttest down thine harvest in thy field, and hast forgot a sheaf in the field, thou shalt not go again to fetch it: it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow: that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hands.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Deuteronomy 24:19. It’s a really important and somewhat surprising passage about responsibility and fairness. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that you are responsible for your own losses. It’s a bit like saying, “If you let things fall apart, you will be punished.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “When thou cuttest down thine harvest in thy field…” : This means you're losing something – potentially crops, livestock, or even your own effort. It’s a loss of what you’ve worked for. “…and hast forgot a sheaf in the field…” : This is key! “A sheaf” refers to a specific type of crop , often wheat or barley. Think of it as a symbol of abundance and prosperity – things that are carefully tended and harvested. It's a sign of good harvest. “…thou shalt not go again to fetch it: it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow…” : This is the crucial part! The verse says you don’t have to fix or replace this lost thing. Instead, it's meant to be given to those who are in need – people who are without a home, without support, or struggling financially. It’s an act of kindness and justice. What does it mean for you ? It means you have a responsibility to help those who are suffering. It’s a call to be generous and compassionate, especially towards the vulnerable members of your community. The "Blessing" part: The verse ends with “that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hands.” This means that by helping others, you’ll be blessed – rewarded – for your efforts and actions. It's about reaping a good harvest not just from your own labor, but also through helping those who are struggling. In short: It’s a reminder that taking responsibility for what happens to your possessions (and sometimes even your livelihood) is important, and that helping others is a way to be blessed. Important Note: This verse was written in a time when the Israelites were facing hardship and famine. It's a powerful message of hope and fairness – offering a path to avoid punishment by taking action to alleviate suffering. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with an example? Discuss its historical context? Explore related biblical teachings about responsibility or compassion?