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What does the Bible say about taking care of the elderly?

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The Bible teaches that honoring and caring for the elderly is a godly duty, especially within the family, flowing from love, gratitude, and reverence for God. Leviticus 19:32 calls God’s people to rise before the aged and honor the elderly, while Exodus 20:12 commands honor for father and mother. First Timothy 5:4 and 5:8 particularly charge children and grandchildren to provide for needy relatives, calling this pleasing to God. Scripture also comforts those in old age: Psalm 71:9 pleads for God’s continued care, and Isaiah 46:4 promises that he will sustain his people even to gray hairs. Christians therefore serve older people with practical generosity, patient respect, and confidence in God’s faithful care.

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • 1 Timothy 5:8 6 votes

    But if anyone doesn't provide for his own, and especially his own household, he has denied the faith, and is worse than an unbeliever.

  • Leviticus 19:32 6 votes

    You shall rise up before the gray head, and honor the face of an old man, and you shall fear your God. I am Yahweh.

  • Acts 20:35 5 votes

    In all things I gave you an example, that so laboring you ought to help the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that he himself said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'"

  • Psalms 71:9 5 votes

    Don't reject me in my old age. Don't forsake me when my strength fails.

  • Isaiah 46:4 4 votes

    and even to old age I am he, and even to gray hairs will I carry you. I have made, and I will bear; yes, I will carry, and will deliver.

  • 1 Timothy 5:1 4 votes

    Don't rebuke an older man, but exhort him as a father; the younger men as brothers;

  • Exodus 20:12 4 votes

    "Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land which Yahweh your God gives you.

  • 1 Timothy 5:4 3 votes

    But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them learn first to show piety towards their own family, and to repay their parents, for this is acceptable in the sight of God.

  • Proverbs 16:31 3 votes

    Gray hair is a crown of glory. It is attained by a life of righteousness.

  • Proverbs 23:22 3 votes

    Listen to your father who gave you life, And don't despise your mother when she is old.

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