Topical Bible: Covetousness in Exacting Usury from Their Brethren

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Covetousness, a deep-seated desire for wealth or possessions, is frequently addressed in the Bible as a sin that leads to various forms of injustice and moral decay. One specific manifestation of covetousness is the practice of exacting usury, or charging excessive interest, from one's brethren. This practice is explicitly condemned in the Scriptures, as it reflects a lack of compassion and a violation of the communal and covenantal relationships that God established among His people.

Biblical Prohibitions and Teachings

The Mosaic Law provides clear instructions regarding the treatment of fellow Israelites, particularly in financial dealings. In Exodus 22:25 , the Lord commands, "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 directive underscores the importance of mercy and generosity, especially towards those in need. The prohibition against charging interest to a fellow Israelite is reiterated in Leviticus 25:36-37 : "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 money at interest or sell him food at a profit."

The underlying principle in these passages is the call to love one's neighbor and to act justly, reflecting God's character and His covenant with Israel. The Israelites were to be a distinct people, set apart by their adherence to God's laws, which included economic practices that promoted equity and compassion.

Historical Context and Violations

Despite these clear commands, the practice of exacting usury persisted among the Israelites, often leading to social and economic injustices. Nehemiah 5 provides a poignant example of this violation. During the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, Nehemiah confronted the nobles and officials for charging their fellow Jews interest, leading to widespread poverty and the selling of children into slavery. Nehemiah 5:7 records his rebuke: "I called a large assembly against them and said, 'We are doing all we can to redeem our Jewish brothers who have been sold to the Gentiles. But you are selling your own brothers, that they may be sold back to us!'"

Nehemiah's response highlights the moral and communal failure inherent in such practices. By exacting usury, the Israelites were not only disobeying God's law but also undermining the unity and welfare of the community.

New Testament Perspective

The New Testament continues to address the issue of covetousness and the exploitation of others for financial gain. While the specific practice of usury is not as prominently discussed, the broader principle of loving one's neighbor and avoiding greed is emphasized. In Luke 6:34-35 , Jesus teaches, "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."

This teaching aligns with the Old Testament's call for generosity and selflessness, urging believers to transcend the natural inclination towards covetousness and instead embody the sacrificial love of Christ.

Moral and Theological Implications

The sin of covetousness in exacting usury from one's brethren is not merely a financial or economic issue; it is a profound moral failing that reflects a heart turned away from God and His commandments. It reveals a prioritization of personal gain over communal well-being and a disregard for the divine mandate to care for the vulnerable and needy.

Throughout Scripture, the call to reject covetousness and embrace generosity is clear. Believers are encouraged to cultivate a spirit of contentment and trust in God's provision, recognizing that true wealth is found not in material possessions but in the richness of a life lived in obedience to God and in service to others.

Nave's Topical Index

Nehemiah 5:1-11
And there was a great cry of the people and of their wives against their brothers the Jews.
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Library

Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus.
... they pretend that I have said, and on which they ground their calumnious accusations ...
upon themselves the office of the devil who is the accuser of the brethren. ...
/.../various/life and works of rufinus with jeromes apology against rufinus /