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Book of Deuteronomy - Chapter 22 - Verse 4

22:4
Thou shalt not see thy brother's ass or his ox fall down by the way, and hide thyself from them: thou shalt surely help him to lift them up again.

Meaning

This verse from the Bible emphasizes the importance of helping others in need, even when it may be inconvenient or uncomfortable. The imagery of seeing your brother's donkey or ox fall down on the road and choosing to ignore it speaks to the human tendency to turn a blind eye to the suffering of others. The verse commands us to actively look out for our fellow humans and to offer assistance when needed, rather than simply walking past and pretending not to see. It serves as a reminder of our responsibility to care for those around us, showing kindness and compassion in times of trouble. By lifting up our brother's burdens and lending a helping hand, we fulfill the call to love our neighbors as ourselves and to embody the spirit of brotherhood and solidarity. This verse challenges us to be attentive, empathetic, and proactive in extending a hand to those in need, embodying the values of mutual support and community care.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the importance of helping others in need is emphasized. The commandment not to ignore a brother's fallen animal on the road speaks to the broader issue of showing compassion and assistance to those in distress. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the value of kindness, empathy, and community care within a society. It underscores the biblical principle of love for one's neighbor and the responsibility to offer aid when needed. Additionally, this verse can be seen as a reflection of God's mercy and concern for all his creations, encouraging believers to emulate his compassion towards others. Through word studies, the emphasis on lifting up one's brother's animal can be extended to metaphorical expressions of support and encouragement for fellow humans in times of difficulty and hardship, reinforcing the idea of fostering a culture of mutual help and consideration.

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