ABSTRACT
The Pentateuch lays down many minute regulations for the relief of the poor, among whom the stranger, as well as the widow and the orphan, is specifically included. The ordinances of the Pentateuch could, under the new conditions, be carried out but imperfectly. New expedients had accordingly to be devised for safeguarding the interests of the poor. The exact proportion indicated by the Pentateuch might well be adopted if account be taken of compulsory contributions like the payment of poor-rates. The good man will be generous, that is he will be just—just to the poor, to society, and to himself. The Pentateuch commends not charity merely, but well-considered charity, not almsgiving, which fosters pauperism and encourages idleness and deception, but the generous and thoughtful benevolence which "upholds" the poor man when his hand begins to "fail," and saves him from penury and demoralisation.
