In the context of ancient Israel, the term "strangers" often referred to non-Israelites residing within the land. These individuals, also known as "sojourners" or "foreigners," were subject to specific laws and regulations that governed their interactions with the Israelites. One notable aspect of these laws pertained to the practice of usury, or the charging of interest on loans.

The Mosaic Law provided clear instructions regarding the treatment of fellow Israelites in financial matters, particularly concerning the prohibition of charging interest. In Deuteronomy 23:19-20 , it is stated: "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 passage delineates a distinction between Israelites and foreigners in terms of financial transactions. While Israelites were forbidden from charging interest to their fellow countrymen, they were permitted to do so with foreigners. This allowance reflects a broader principle within the Mosaic Law that sought to maintain economic equity and community solidarity among the Israelites, while also recognizing the different status of foreigners within the land.

The rationale behind this differentiation can be understood in light of the covenantal relationship between God and Israel. The Israelites were called to be a distinct and holy people, set apart for God's purposes. As such, their economic practices were to reflect their unique identity and commitment to God's commandments. By prohibiting interest among themselves, they fostered a spirit of mutual support and compassion, ensuring that no member of the community would be unduly burdened by debt.

In contrast, the permission to charge interest to foreigners acknowledged the practical realities of economic interactions with those outside the covenant community. Foreigners, not being bound by the same covenantal obligations, were subject to different economic expectations. This provision allowed Israelites to engage in commerce with foreigners in a manner that was both fair and beneficial, without compromising the internal cohesion and ethical standards of the Israelite community.

The treatment of strangers in Israel, including the laws regarding usury, reflects a balance between justice and mercy, between maintaining the distinctiveness of God's people and engaging with the broader world. These laws underscore the importance of community integrity while allowing for economic interactions with those outside the covenant, always with an eye toward the ultimate goal of honoring God in all aspects of life.Deuteronomy 23:20
To a stranger you may lend on usury; but to your brother you shall not lend on usury: that the LORD your God may bless you in all that you set your hand to in the land where you go to possess it.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ...
... writes that at Athens out of all the laws of [4776 ... And hence it is a reproach against
Israel: [4805] "Ye ... sinners, I am to infer His wishes respecting ourselves. ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/book ii jerome answers the.htm

Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus.
... would be the consequence to him according to the public laws, when he was ... in adultery
was brought before our Lord by the Jews, so that they might see what ...
/.../various/life and works of rufinus with jeromes apology against rufinus /

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