As with Jesus’ other examples and explanations, we should recognize that he is making use of rhetorical overstatements. For the sake of memorization and emphasis, he makes use of metaphors and examples that will highlight the primary principle he seeks to convey. In this case, the principle is that giving must be done to please God and not for the sake of winning attention and approval of men. This does not mean that all Christian giving must always be completely secretive, though it certainly suggests that secrecy should be preferred.
3 But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing,