Usury

In biblical terms, usury refers to the practice of charging excessive or unfair interest on loans. The concept of usury is addressed in several passages throughout the Bible, reflecting a concern for justice, fairness, and compassion in financial dealings.

The Old Testament law explicitly prohibits the Israelites from charging interest to their fellow countrymen. In Exodus 22:25 , it is written: "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 command underscores the importance of community support and the protection of the vulnerable from exploitation.

Leviticus 25:35-37 further elaborates on this principle: "If your brother becomes impoverished and cannot support himself among you, then you are to 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."

The prohibition against usury is not limited to the Israelites alone but extends to the treatment of foreigners residing among them. Deuteronomy 23:19-20 states: "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."

The wisdom literature also addresses the issue of usury. In Proverbs 28:8 , it is noted: "He who increases his wealth by interest and usury lays it up for one who is kind to the poor." This verse suggests that wealth gained through unjust means will ultimately benefit those who are righteous and compassionate.

Gain

The Bible presents a nuanced view of gain, particularly in the context of wealth and material possessions. While the acquisition of wealth is not inherently condemned, the Scriptures emphasize the importance of righteous living, contentment, and the proper use of resources.

In the New Testament, Jesus teaches about the dangers of prioritizing material gain over spiritual well-being. In Matthew 16:26 , He poses the rhetorical question: "What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?" This teaching highlights the eternal value of the soul compared to temporal wealth.

The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in 1 Timothy 6:6-10 , where he writes: "Of course, godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and neither can we carry anything out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with these. Those who want to be rich, however, fall into temptation and become ensnared by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. By craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows."

The Bible also encourages the use of wealth for the benefit of others and the advancement of God's kingdom. In 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 , Paul advises: "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver."

In summary, while the Bible acknowledges the reality of financial gain, it consistently calls for ethical conduct, generosity, and a focus on spiritual riches over material wealth.