Topical Encyclopedia Money-lenders, often referred to as usurers in biblical texts, play a significant role in the economic and social narratives of the Bible. The practice of lending money at interest is addressed in various passages, reflecting the cultural and ethical considerations of ancient Israelite society and early Christianity.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the practice of lending money is regulated by Mosaic Law, which emphasizes compassion and fairness, especially towards the poor and needy. Exodus 22:25 states, "If you lend money to one of My people among you who is poor, you must not be like a moneylender to him; you must not charge him interest." This directive underscores the importance of community support and the avoidance of exploiting those in vulnerable positions. Leviticus 25:35-37 further elaborates on this principle: "If your brother becomes impoverished and cannot support himself among you, help him as you would a foreigner or stranger, so that he can continue to live among you. Do not take any interest or profit from him, but fear your God, so that your countryman may continue to live among you. You must not lend him your money at interest or sell him your food at a profit." These verses highlight the expectation of generosity and the prohibition of interest in transactions with fellow Israelites. Deuteronomy 23:19-20 provides additional guidance: "Do not charge your brother interest on money, food, or any other type of loan. You may charge a foreigner interest, but you must not charge your brother interest, so that the LORD your God may bless you in everything to which you put your hand in the land you are entering to possess." This distinction between Israelites and foreigners indicates a protective measure for the covenant community, while allowing for different economic interactions with outsiders. New Testament Perspective In the New Testament, the teachings of Jesus and the apostles continue to address the ethical dimensions of lending and financial dealings. Jesus' parables often include references to money and lending, using them as illustrations of broader spiritual truths. In the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant (Matthew 18:23-35), Jesus highlights the importance of mercy and forgiveness, contrasting the harshness of a servant who demands repayment with the king's initial compassion. Luke 6:34-35 records Jesus' teaching on lending: "And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, expecting to be repaid in full. But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them, expecting nothing in return. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He is kind to the ungrateful and wicked." This passage encourages a radical generosity that reflects God's character, challenging believers to transcend conventional economic expectations. The early Christian community, as described in Acts 4:32-35 , exemplified a spirit of sharing and mutual support, where "no one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they owned." This communal approach minimized the need for money-lending within the community, as resources were distributed according to need. Ethical Considerations The biblical stance on money-lending is deeply rooted in the principles of justice, mercy, and community welfare. The prohibition against charging interest to fellow Israelites and the call to lend without expecting repayment reflect a divine concern for the well-being of all members of society. These teachings challenge believers to consider the impact of their financial practices on others and to prioritize relationships over profit. Throughout Scripture, money-lenders are often depicted in a negative light when their practices lead to exploitation or injustice. The prophets frequently denounce those who oppress the poor through unfair lending practices, as seen in Ezekiel 18:13 : "He lends at interest and takes a profit. Will such a man live? He will not! Because he has done all these abominations, he will surely die; his blood will be on his own head." In summary, the biblical narrative presents a complex view of money-lending, balancing the need for economic transactions with a strong ethical framework that prioritizes compassion, justice, and the well-being of the community. Library Explanation of "Corban. " God and Mammon. Celts and Celtophiles Objections to the Foregoing Proof. Whether, in the Generation of ... Monos Chaldaean Civilization Thesaurus Money-lenders (1 Occurrence)Money-lenders. Money-lender, Money-lenders. Money-value . Multi-Version Concordance Money-lenders (1 Occurrence). Matthew ... /m/money-lenders.htm - 6k Usury (17 Occurrences) Increase (184 Occurrences) Money-lender (1 Occurrence) Money-value (1 Occurrence) Behoved (10 Occurrences) Dispersion (4 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about lending money? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about going into debt? | GotQuestions.org Why is the love of money the root of all kinds of evil? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Money-lenders (1 Occurrence)Matthew 25:27 Subtopics Related Terms |
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