Christian Ideals in The Grapes of Wrath In Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath one of the themes discussed is the idea of ​​Christian goodness exhibited in the Joads and other migrant workers. Those who represent this in the book * "[eat] together with a joyful and sincere heart". This type of altruistic sharing is a Christian concept of good brotherhood. In particular, Ma shows his concern for others from the beginning and pushes others to do the same. Jim Casy, while struggling with the orthodox view of Christianity, still displays a general concern for his fellow man. Repeatedly, family and other associates sacrifice comfort for the needs of others. When people are in need, a sacrifice for them makes society more pleasant to inhabit. Although the Joads don't have much, Ma feels it is her duty to take care of others on the journey. To take Jim Casy on a journey, he poses the idea that "[it's] not relatives... it's our will." He recognizes that what they are about to undertake is already beyond their means and that the decision to take Casy with them will be made out of compassion, not ability. Presenting kindness to others regardless of one's situation is a key Christian concept. This type of sacrifice soon becomes a standard in Ma's behavior. Time and time again, Ma gives to others, forgetting her own needs. For the family, he lies with his grandmother after her death so the family can cross the border into California. She doesn't complain or think about herself, but only asks two to leave her alone so she can stay strong. This alleviates the problems of their little hierarchical family. She says, "I'm tarred" because mom gives her strength to everyone.......middle of paper......basic standard. He believes he must *"love [his] neighbor" if he wants their world to improve. Sairy Wilson shows this perception of Christian ethics by volunteering to help her mother with the task of burying her grandfather. She understands that "people need help", that by sacrificing for others, people not only give themselves a sense of security and unity, but also set an example of how others should live. The Joads go through most of the book not realizing the reality of what they are doing for other people. This instinctive way in which some characters, like Ma and Jim Casy, give to others is the basis of Christian ideals. Eventually, all Joads develop this devotion. The only way people can truly help themselves is to “create beyond need.”* from the NIV Student Bible – Acts 2:42-47; Leviticus 19:18