1 Timothy 5:16
Arabic SAB (الكتاب الشريف)
الْمُؤْمِنَةُ الَّتِي لَهَا أَقَارِبُ أَرَامِلُ، يَجِبُ عَلَيْهَا أَنْ تَعُولَهُنَّ وَلَا تُثَقِّلَ عَلَى جَمَاعَةِ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ، لِكَيْ يَعُولُوا هُمُ الْأَرَامِلَ اللَّوَاتِي لَيْسَ لَهُنَّ عَائِلٌ.
What Does This Mean?
This verse from the Bible tells believers who have widows in their family or community to take care of them instead of leaving it up to the church. This way, the church can focus on those truly in need.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a friend whose parents are no longer around. Instead of asking your teacher for help, this verse says you should step up and look after your friend so others can be free to care for other friends who might also need extra support.
Historical Background
1 Timothy was written by the Apostle Paul in the late first century AD to Timothy, a young pastor. The letter addresses various issues related to church leadership and behavior in Ephesus, where widows were numerous due to societal conditions.
Living It Out Today
A practical application today might be a scenario where a family has an elderly relative who is widowed and needs assistance. Instead of relying on community services or the local church, this verse encourages taking responsibility for their care directly.
Topics
care for the widowchurch responsibilitiespersonal responsibilitycompassioncommunity servicefamily duties
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean by 'relieve them'?
To relieve them means to provide support, care, and assistance so that these widows can manage their lives without additional stress or hardship.
Why not let the church take charge of all widows?
The verse suggests prioritizing family and personal responsibility because this allows the church to focus its resources on those who do not have such support, ensuring more effective use of charitable efforts.
How can I apply this verse in a modern context?
By personally taking care of widows you know or supporting them through local community groups rather than relying solely on institutional church programs, thus allowing the church to focus more resources on those who lack familial support.
What are some ways to relieve widows effectively?
Effective relief can include providing financial assistance, offering companionship and emotional support, helping with household chores or errands, and connecting them to necessary services within the community.