Beggars / Poor

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1. Name / Role

Beggars / Poor

2. Category

Common People

3. Time Period / Biblical Context

Beggars and the economically poor are found throughout the Bible—from the Law of Moses to the Prophets, Psalms, Gospels, and Epistles. Their presence is often highlighted in both social justice teachings and spiritual metaphors. Jesus interacted regularly with the poor, offering them dignity, healing, and the promise of the Kingdom.

4. Origin / Background

Poverty in ancient Israel often resulted from war, exile, famine, disability, or systemic injustice. Beggars were those without land, income, or family support, forced to survive through public charity or alms. The Law mandated care for the poor, and prophets rebuked leaders who neglected or oppressed them. In the Greco-Roman world, beggars were marginalised yet often found near city gates or religious sites.

5. Primary Role / Function

Though not an official role, beggars and the poor were visible members of society who represented vulnerability and dependence. Their function in Scripture is often theological—serving as a mirror to reveal societal compassion or corruption, and as models of humility and receptivity in Jesus’ teaching on the Kingdom of God.

6. Key Characteristics / Traits

  • Economically and socially marginalised
  • Dependent on almsgiving or divine intervention
  • Often physically disabled, widowed, or orphaned
  • Visible in both cities and temple entrances
  • Represented both literal poverty and spiritual humility

7. Symbolism / Spiritual Significance

The poor and beggars symbolise humility, dependence on God, and receptivity to grace. Jesus pronounced blessings upon them (“Blessed are the poor in spirit,” Matthew 5:3) and warned that wealth can harden the heart. The poor often received Jesus gladly, while the wealthy resisted Him. In this way, poverty became a doorway to spiritual riches.

8. Notable Figures / Examples

  • Lazarus – Poor man in Jesus’ parable, received into Abraham’s bosom (Luke 16:19–31)
  • Blind Bartimaeus – Begged by the roadside until healed by Jesus (Mark 10:46–52)
  • Unnamed beggars at temple gates – Recipients of healing in Acts (e.g., Acts 3:1–10)
  • Widow of Zarephath – Provided for Elijah despite her poverty (1 Kings 17:8–16)
  • Poor widow – Praised by Jesus for giving all she had (Mark 12:41–44)

9. Related Bible References

  • Deuteronomy 15:7–11 – Commands to care for the poor
  • Proverbs 14:31; 19:17 – Kindness to the poor is honouring God
  • Isaiah 61:1 – Good news proclaimed to the poor
  • Luke 4:18 – Jesus declares His mission to the poor
  • Luke 16:19–31 – Rich man and Lazarus
  • James 2:1–7 – Warning against favouritism and dishonour of the poor
  • 2 Corinthians 8:9 – Christ became poor so we might become rich

10. Summary / Reflection

The beggars and poor in Scripture serve as both recipients of divine compassion and examples of spiritual receptivity. Far from being forgotten, they are honoured in God’s Word and central to Jesus’ mission. Their presence challenges societal pride and calls believers to generosity, justice, and humility. In God’s economy, it is often the poor—those who know their need—who are richest in faith and first to enter the Kingdom.

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