Nehemiah 5:10

I likewise, and my brethren, and my servants, might exact of them money and corn: I pray you, let us leave off this usury.

Nehemiah 5:10 (KJV)

Context

Nehemiah served as cupbearer to the Persian king. When he learned of Jerusalem’s ruined walls and the people’s distress, he returned to rebuild the city. In Nehemiah 5, the community faced famine and heavy debt. Some wealthy Jews lent money and grain to their poorer brothers, charging high interest, called usury. This practice pushed many families into poverty and even bondage.

Meaning

Nehemiah includes himself, his relatives, and his servants among those who had been lending. He admits that they could legally demand repayment with interest. Yet he pleads, “let us leave off this usury.” The Hebrew word for usury means interest or a burden of debt. Nehemiah’s call is not a suggestion but a moral demand rooted in God’s law, which forbade charging interest to fellow Israelites in need. As governor, Nehemiah had the right to exact money and corn from the people for his own maintenance, but he chose to decline this right to ease the burden on his poor brethren.

Biblical connections

Nehemiah had already rebuked the nobles and rulers for exploiting the poor (Nehemiah 5:7). Now he sets an example by including himself in the reform. The next verse urges the return of lands, vineyards, and houses taken as collateral (Nehemiah 5:11). This shows the problem was not only interest but the whole system that oppressed the poor. True leadership means not only correcting others but also modeling the remedy.

Application

Nehemiah’s example teaches us to examine our own dealings. We should be aware of the needs of fellow believers and willing to help them. Exploiting others for personal gain contradicts God’s justice and love. As Christians, we must be compassionate, fair, and honest in business and daily life. Those with authority or wealth should be ready to give up advantages to relieve suffering. Trusting God’s provision frees us from greed and selfishness. This principle calls us to prioritize compassion over profit in all our economic dealings.

Reflection

Nehemiah’s plea reveals a heart of justice and mercy. He recognized that God’s people should support one another, not take advantage of hardships. His actions reflect God’s character of love and fairness. This verse challenges us to consider how we treat others in financial matters. It reminds us that our dealings should honor God and care for the vulnerable.