“Thou shalt not give him thy money upon usury, nor lend him thy victuals for increase.”
Leviticus 25:37 addresses the practice of lending money or providing food to one’s neighbour, emphasising the prohibition of charging interest or making a profit from these transactions. It reflects a principle of fairness, justice, and compassion within the socio-economic context of ancient Israel.
In the Old Testament, lending practices were governed by specific regulations, and charging interest on loans was generally discouraged. The underlying principle was to promote social welfare and prevent the exploitation of the vulnerable. Israelites were expected to assist one another in times of need rather than exploiting their neighbours for personal gain.
The verse prohibits lending money at usury, which refers to charging exorbitant interest rates or engaging in predatory lending practices. The intent was to protect the borrower from falling into a cycle of debt and financial hardship. By limiting the financial burden on individuals, the community as a whole could maintain a more equitable and just society.
Likewise, lending victuals, or food, was not to be done for the purpose of making a profit. The emphasis is on lending with the intention of providing assistance rather than capitalising on someone’s need. This reflects the importance of charity, kindness, and generosity within the community.
Overall, Leviticus 25:37 teaches us about the values of fairness, compassion, and communal responsibility. It reminds us to prioritise the well-being of others over personal gain, promoting a society where everyone has an opportunity to thrive. While the specific regulations may not directly apply to our contemporary financial systems, the underlying principles of justice and compassion can still guide our interactions and decision-making in matters of lending and helping those in need.
