Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the concept of a mortgage, particularly on land, was not explicitly outlined as it is understood in modern financial systems. However, the principles surrounding land ownership, debt, and pledges can be found throughout the Scriptures, providing insight into how such matters were handled in ancient Israelite society.Land Ownership and Inheritance The land was a significant aspect of God's covenant with Israel. It was considered a divine gift, and each tribe and family received specific allotments as their inheritance. This is evident in passages such as Joshua 13-21, where the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel is detailed. The land was to remain within the family and tribe, as seen in Numbers 36:7, "No inheritance in Israel is to pass from tribe to tribe, for each Israelite tribe is to keep the inheritance of its ancestors." Debt and Pledges While the Bible does not mention mortgages in the modern sense, it does address the issue of debt and the use of land as security. In the Mosaic Law, there were provisions for those who fell into debt. Leviticus 25:23-28 outlines the Year of Jubilee, a time when land that had been sold due to poverty was to be returned to the original family. This ensured that the land remained within the family lineage, preventing permanent loss due to financial hardship. The concept of pledges is also relevant. In Deuteronomy 24:10-13, the law provides guidance on taking a pledge from a neighbor, emphasizing respect and dignity for the debtor. "When you lend anything to your neighbor, do not enter his house to collect security. You are to stand outside while the man to whom you are lending brings the security out to you" (Deuteronomy 24:10-11). This reflects a compassionate approach to debt, ensuring that the debtor's dignity and basic needs were preserved. Nehemiah's Reforms A practical example of dealing with land and debt is found in the book of Nehemiah. During the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, some Israelites mortgaged their fields, vineyards, and homes to buy grain during a famine (Nehemiah 5:3). Nehemiah confronted the nobles and officials, urging them to stop charging interest and to return the fields, vineyards, olive groves, and houses to their fellow Israelites (Nehemiah 5:11). This incident highlights the importance of community support and the ethical treatment of those in financial distress. Proverbs and Wisdom Literature The wisdom literature of the Bible also provides guidance on financial matters, including the use of land as security. Proverbs 22:26-27 warns against the dangers of co-signing or putting up security for another's debt: "Do not be one who gives pledges, who puts up security for debts. If you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be taken from under you" . This advice underscores the potential risks involved in financial agreements and the importance of prudent management of one's resources. In summary, while the Bible does not explicitly mention mortgages on land, it provides a framework for understanding land ownership, debt, and financial ethics. The principles of justice, compassion, and community responsibility are central to the biblical approach to these issues. Nave's Topical Index Nehemiah 5:3Some also there were that said, We have mortgaged our lands, vineyards, and houses, that we might buy corn, because of the dearth. Nave's Topical Index Library Love and Law. Job's Sure Knowledge Enrollment by Households in Egypt Close of the Colonial Era --The German Churches --The Beginnings ... The Unjust Steward - Dives and Lazarus - Jewish Agricultural Notes ... Prayers Answered My Call to the Ministry A Song among the Lilies "Bought with a Price" The Last Days of the Old Eastern World Resources Questions about Life Decisions (All) | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about going into debt? | GotQuestions.org I am a Christian in debt. What should I do? | GotQuestions.org Mortgage: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |