Bits of Torah Truths – Torah Concept in the NT: Honor Widows – Episode 465
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1 Timothy 5:3
5:3 Honor widows who are widows indeed; (NASB)
https://www.matsati.com/index.php/category/bits-of-torah-truths/
1 Timothy 5:3
כַּבֵּד אֶת הָאַלְמָנוֹת אֲשֶׁר הֵן אָכֵן אַלְמָנוֹת.
The concept of honoring widows, as referenced in 1 Timothy 5:3 (Honor widows who are truly widows), has strong parallels in the Torah, emphasizing the protection and provision for widows as a vulnerable group in society. Throughout the Torah, widows are grouped with orphans and strangers, representing those who often lacked a support system in ancient communities. For instance, Exodus 22:22-24 explicitly commands to not mistreat them which underscores God’s priority given to the care of widows, with severe consequences for neglecting or harming them. In Deuteronomy 14:28-29, there is a command to set aside a tithe every third year to support not only the Levites but also widows, orphans, and strangers. Similarly, Deuteronomy 24:19-21 instructs landowners to leave behind gleanings of the harvest, olives, and grapes for widows and the disadvantaged, ensuring their survival and dignity. These laws institutionalize compassion, showing that honoring widows isn’t merely an act of kindness but a covenantal responsibility within the community. The Torah’s emphasis on supporting widows aligns with the NT instruction to honor widows. This foundational teaching is in the NT text demonstrating how the NT is teaching Torah to God’s people! The Torah has not passed away!
