The Torah in Parashat Kedoshim (Vayikra 19:10) requires leaving several portions of one’s produce for the converts and the needy, including “Leket” – stalks of grain which drop during the harvest. As a person harvests the grain, either with a sickle by hand, it occasionally happens that a stalk or several stalks drop from his hand to the ground. The term “Leket” refers to stalks which a person pulled from the ground during the harvest, but which then fell back to the ground. These stalks must be left for the poor.
This obligation applies only if the person dropped one or two stalks. If three or more stalks fell at once from the harvester’s hand to the ground, this does not qualify as “Leket,” and the field’s owner may keep them for himself. Moreover, the requirement applies only to stalks that fell naturally out of the harvester’s hand. If his hand struck something that caused the stalks to fall, they are not considered “Leket,” and the field’s owner may keep the stalks.
If some stalks are seen on the ground, and it is uncertain whether or not they are “Leket,” they are given to the poor. The Gemara cites the verse in Tehillim (82:3), “Ani Va’rash Hasdiku,” which requires favoring the poor and indigent. Hence, when an uncertainty arises, we must presume that the produce in question rightfully belongs to the poor.
The rationale behind this Misva, of course, is the same as that underlying other obligations involving charity to the poor – that we are to act kindly and generously to others, so we will be worthy of G-d’s kindness and generosity.
The Misva of “Leket” applies in the Land of Israel, when the majority of the Jewish Nation resides there. The Sages extended this obligation to apply also in certain areas in the Diaspora.