“Thou shalt not lend upon usury to thy brother; usury of money, usury of victuals, usury of anything that is lent upon usury.”
Here, God commands the Israelites not to charge interest or usury to their fellow Israelites when lending them money or other items. To understand the significance and implications of this verse, we can explore it further through several key points:
Prohibition of usury: The verse clearly states that it is forbidden for an Israelite to charge interest when lending to their fellow countrymen. Usury refers to the practice of charging excessive or exploitative interest rates on loans. The purpose of this commandment was to prevent the exploitation of one’s fellow Israelites, particularly those who might be in vulnerable financial situations.
Concern for the brotherhood: The commandment highlights the sense of community and brotherhood among the Israelites. The intention was to promote mutual support and care within the community, ensuring that those in need could receive assistance without being burdened by the additional weight of interest payments.
Expanding beyond monetary loans: While the verse specifically mentions “usury of money,” it goes on to include “usury of victuals” (food or provisions) and “usury of anything that is lent upon usury.” This broadens the scope of the prohibition beyond monetary lending and includes any item or commodity lent on which interest might be charged.
Context of the larger Mosaic Law: Deuteronomy 23:19 is situated within the broader context of the Mosaic Law, which encompassed various regulations and commandments given to the Israelites by God. Many of these laws were aimed at establishing social justice, promoting fairness, and reflecting the character and holiness of God. This specific prohibition against usury aligns with the overall theme of caring for one’s neighbor and ensuring justice within the community.
Relevance and interpretation: While this commandment was given to the Israelites in a specific historical and cultural context, it still holds significance for believers today. Though the exact application may vary, the principle of showing compassion, fairness, and concern for others remains relevant. Christians are encouraged to follow Jesus’ teachings on loving one’s neighbor, acting with integrity, and avoiding exploitation.
It’s important to note that interpretations and applications of this verse may vary among different theological traditions. Some may view the prohibition against usury as a timeless moral principle, while others may see it as specific to the Israelite community at that time. Consulting additional biblical commentaries or seeking guidance from religious leaders can provide further insight based on specific theological perspectives.
Overall, Deuteronomy 23:19 emphasizes the importance of fair treatment and compassion within the community of believers, discouraging exploitation and usurious practices when assisting those in need.
