We have examined the evolving consciousness of the authors and redactors of the bible. This short series looks at the issues of social justice as they indicate an evolving morality and ethos concerning women, the poor, aliens and slaves, and attitudes toward those of different social strata. This segment will look at how the poor are defined and treated by the community as a whole and the evolving social, ethical, and spiritual obligation to care for and help the poor inside and outside the community.