Topical Encyclopedia A money-lender in biblical times was an individual who lent money to others, often at interest. The practice of money-lending is addressed in various passages throughout the Bible, reflecting both the economic realities of ancient societies and the moral and ethical considerations associated with lending and borrowing.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the practice of lending money is regulated by the Mosaic Law, which provides specific instructions to the Israelites regarding loans and interest. Exodus 22:25 states, "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 compassion and fairness, particularly towards the poor and needy within the community. Leviticus 25:35-37 further elaborates on this principle: "If your brother becomes impoverished and cannot support himself among you, 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." These verses emphasize the call to support fellow Israelites without exploiting their vulnerable circumstances. Deuteronomy 23:19-20 distinguishes between lending to fellow Israelites and foreigners: "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 distinction highlights the covenantal relationship among the Israelites and the expectation of mutual care and support. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the teachings of Jesus and the apostles further address the attitudes and behaviors associated with money-lending. Jesus, in His parables and teachings, often uses money and debt as metaphors to illustrate spiritual truths. In the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant (Matthew 18:23-35), Jesus highlights the importance of mercy and forgiveness, contrasting the harshness of a servant who demands repayment with the grace of a king who forgives a great debt. Luke 6:34-35 records Jesus' teaching on lending: "And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, expecting to be repaid in full. But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them, expecting nothing in return. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He is kind to the ungrateful and wicked." Here, Jesus calls His followers to a higher standard of generosity and selflessness, reflecting the character of God. The apostle Paul, in his epistles, also addresses issues related to money and lending. In Romans 13:8 , he writes, "Be indebted to no one, except to one another in love, for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law." This exhortation encourages believers to prioritize love and mutual support over financial transactions that could lead to exploitation or division. Cultural and Historical Considerations In the ancient Near East, money-lending was a common practice, often necessary for individuals facing economic hardship. However, the potential for abuse and exploitation was significant, leading to the biblical regulations and teachings that sought to protect the vulnerable and promote justice and righteousness. The biblical perspective on money-lending reflects a broader concern for economic justice and the well-being of the community. It calls for a balance between the practical needs of lending and the ethical imperative to care for one's neighbor, emphasizing mercy, compassion, and the avoidance of greed. Greek 1157. danistes -- a moneylender ... Spelling: (dan-ice-tace') Short Definition: a lender, creditor Definition: a money-lender, creditor. Word Origin from danizo Definition a moneylender NASB Word ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1157.htm - 6k Library Explanation of "Corban. " On the Fast of the Tenth Month, vi. Jesus Makes Even Wrong-Doers his Friends St. Ambrose, Reflecting Upon the Account He Will have to Give of ... Prayers Answered The Christian Conception of Life Has Already Arisen in Our Society ... Prologue. Who is a Faithful and Wise Servant? his Reward is ... Six Years in North Bengal --Missionary and Indigo Planter The Debt of Israel Monos Thesaurus Moneylender (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Moneylender (2 Occurrences). Luke 7:41 "A certain lender had two debtors. The one owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. ... /m/moneylender.htm - 6k Money-lender (1 Occurrence) Usurer (2 Occurrences) Money-lenders (1 Occurrence) Money-grubber (1 Occurrence) Creditor (8 Occurrences) Shillings (7 Occurrences) Papyrus (4 Occurrences) Money (284 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about lending money? | GotQuestions.orgIs it right for a church to go into debt? | GotQuestions.org What is usury in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Money-lender (1 Occurrence)Luke 7:41 Subtopics Related Terms |
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