Alms

In the Bible, "alms" refers to charitable giving, particularly to the poor and needy. The term is derived from the Greek word "eleemosynē," which signifies acts of mercy and kindness. Almsgiving is emphasized throughout both the Old and New Testaments as a vital expression of one's faith and compassion for others. In the Old Testament, the practice is rooted in the Law of Moses, where the Israelites were instructed to care for the poor, orphans, and widows (Deuteronomy 14:28-29; Leviticus 19:9-10). This notion is integral to the concept of social justice within the community.In the New Testament, Jesus underscores the importance of almsgiving in His teachings. In Matthew 6:1-4, He advises against performing acts of charity for public recognition, emphasizing that giving should be done discreetly and with genuine intent, as God sees the heart. The act of giving alms not only serves to assist those in need but also reflects one's relationship with God, who values mercy and compassion (Luke 12:33-34). Overall, almsgiving is portrayed as a fundamental expression of love and righteousness in the biblical narrative.