Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the concept of debt and the provision of security for debts were common practices, deeply embedded in the socio-economic fabric of ancient Israelite society. The Bible provides various guidelines and narratives that reflect the moral and ethical considerations surrounding these practices.Old Testament Context The Old Testament law contains specific instructions regarding the provision of security for debts. In Exodus 22:26-27, the law stipulates: "If you take your neighbor’s cloak as collateral, return it to him by sunset, because his cloak is the only covering he has for his body. What else will he sleep in? And if he cries out to Me, I will hear, for I am compassionate." This passage highlights the importance of compassion and the protection of the debtor's basic needs, even when a pledge is taken as security. Deuteronomy 24:10-13 further elaborates on the ethical treatment of debtors: "When you lend anything to your neighbor, do not enter his house to collect security. You are to stand outside while the man to whom you are lending brings the security out to you. If he is a poor man, you must not go to sleep with the security in your possession; be sure to return it to him by sunset so that he may sleep in his own cloak and bless you. And it will be credited to you as righteousness before the LORD your God." This passage underscores the respect for personal dignity and the righteousness associated with fair treatment. Proverbs and Wisdom Literature The wisdom literature of the Old Testament also addresses the issue of security for debts. Proverbs 22:26-27 warns against the dangers of providing security for others: "Do not be one who gives pledges, who puts up security for debts. If you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be taken from under you." This proverb serves as a cautionary note about the potential consequences of overextending oneself financially. New Testament Insights While the New Testament does not provide direct legal instructions regarding security for debts, it emphasizes principles of love, mercy, and forgiveness that can be applied to financial dealings. In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus teaches His followers to pray, "And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors" (Matthew 6:12). This reflects a broader spiritual principle of forgiveness and grace that transcends legalistic obligations. Cultural and Historical Considerations In ancient Israel, the practice of taking security for debts was regulated to prevent exploitation and ensure that the basic human dignity of the debtor was preserved. The laws served to protect the vulnerable and maintain social justice within the community. The biblical approach to debt and security reflects a balance between the rights of the creditor and the needs of the debtor, emphasizing compassion, fairness, and the importance of community welfare. Theological Reflections The biblical teachings on debt and security for debts reveal a God who is concerned with justice, mercy, and the well-being of His people. The laws and wisdom literature encourage believers to act with integrity and compassion in their financial dealings, reflecting God's character in their interactions with others. The overarching biblical narrative points to a God who desires His people to live in harmony, supporting one another and upholding the dignity of every individual. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 22:25-27If you lend money to any of my people that is poor by you, you shall not be to him as an usurer, neither shall you lay on him usury. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 24:6,10-13 Nehemiah 5:3,4 Job 22:6 Job 24:9 Proverbs 11:15 Proverbs 22:26 Amos 2:8 Strong's Hebrew 2258. chabol -- a pledge... pledge. Or (feminine) chabolah {khab-o-law'}; from chabal; a pawn (as security for debt) -- pledge. see HEBREW chabal. 2257, 2258. chabol. 2259 . ... /hebrew/2258.htm - 6k Library Treats of the Insecurity of Life in this Exile, However High we ... How they are to be Admonished who Lament Sins of Deed, and those ... A virgin at Antioch, Having Refused to Sacrifice to Idols... The Absurd Opinion of Epicurus and the Profane Conceits of the ... John Chapter viii. 48-59 Whether There is a Different Matter for Both Kinds of Justice? Psalm XLVI. The Battle of the Books, 1749-1755. Turning-Points Prayers Answered Resources Should a Christian use a credit card? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is usury in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Should a Christian declare bankruptcy? | GotQuestions.org Debt: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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