Matthew 6:3

But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth:

But {G1161} when thou {G4675} doest {G4160} alms {G1654}, let {G1097} not {G3361} thy {G4675} left hand {G710} know {G1097} what {G5101} thy {G4675} right hand {G1188} doeth {G4160}:

But you, when you do tzedakah, don't even let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.

But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing,

But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth:

Commentary

Matthew 6:3 (KJV) instructs believers on the proper attitude for charitable giving: "But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth:". This vivid idiom emphasizes profound secrecy and humility in acts of generosity.

Context

This verse is an integral part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, specifically within His teaching on true righteousness that transcends outward appearances. It directly follows His warning in Matthew 6:1 against performing righteous acts "to be seen of men" and the specific condemnation of the hypocrites who sound trumpets when they give alms in Matthew 6:2. Jesus contrasts their public display with the quiet, sincere giving He advocates, laying the groundwork for the promise of God's reward in Matthew 6:4.

Key Themes

  • Humility in Giving: The core message is to give without drawing attention to oneself. True generosity is not about seeking human praise or recognition.
  • Purity of Motive: Jesus emphasizes that the heart behind the act of charity is paramount. Giving should stem from genuine compassion and devotion to God, not from a desire for personal glory or social standing.
  • Secret Charity: The phrase "let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth" is an idiom for extreme discretion. It implies that the act of giving should be so private that even the giver is not boasting internally or externally.
  • God's Approval Over Human Praise: While hypocrites receive their reward in the form of human adulation (Matthew 6:2), those who give secretly are seen and rewarded by God, who "seeth in secret" (Matthew 6:4).

Linguistic Insight

The phrase "let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth" is a powerful Hebraic idiom. It does not suggest a literal ignorance between one's hands but rather signifies the utmost secrecy and lack of self-promotion in acts of charity. It means to give so discreetly that there's no self-consciousness, no boasting, and no seeking of credit, even from oneself. The focus is entirely on the recipient's need and God's glory, not the giver's reputation.

Practical Application

This verse challenges believers today to examine their motives in all acts of generosity, whether financial contributions, volunteering, or helping others. In an age of social media where good deeds are often publicized, Matthew 6:3 calls for a radical re-evaluation of why we give. It encourages:

  • Private Giving: Opting for anonymous or discreet donations when possible.
  • Humility: Avoiding self-congratulation or recounting one's own charitable acts.
  • Authentic Compassion: Ensuring that the desire to help others and honor God is the primary driver, not the desire for public recognition.

Ultimately, this teaching encourages a spirit of genuine, selfless giving that mirrors God's own generosity, expecting no earthly return but trusting in His divine knowledge and ultimate reward, as mentioned in Luke 12:33 and 2 Corinthians 9:7 which speaks of God loving a cheerful giver.

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Cross-References

  • John 7:4 (14 votes)

    For [there is] no man [that] doeth any thing in secret, and he himself seeketh to be known openly. If thou do these things, shew thyself to the world.

  • Matthew 9:30 (9 votes)

    And their eyes were opened; and Jesus straitly charged them, saying, See [that] no man know [it].

  • Mark 1:44 (4 votes)

    And saith unto him, See thou say nothing to any man: but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing those things which Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.

  • Matthew 12:19 (-1 votes)

    He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets.

  • Matthew 8:4 (-1 votes)

    And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man; but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.