Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, a pledge was a form of security or collateral given to ensure the fulfillment of a promise or obligation, often in the context of a loan or debt. The concept of a pledge is addressed in various scriptures, highlighting the ethical and moral considerations surrounding its use.Old Testament References The Mosaic Law provided specific instructions regarding pledges, emphasizing fairness and compassion. In Exodus 22:26-27 , it is written: "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 underscores the importance of not depriving a person of their basic needs, even when a pledge is involved. Deuteronomy 24:10-13 further elaborates on the treatment of pledges: "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 highlights the respect for personal dignity and the righteousness associated with compassionate actions. Prophetic Warnings The prophets also addressed the misuse of pledges. In Amos 2:8 , the prophet condemns those who exploit the poor: "They lie down beside every altar on garments taken in pledge. And in the house of their God, they drink wine obtained through fines." This criticism reflects the broader theme of social justice and the condemnation of those who oppress the vulnerable by misusing pledges. Ezekiel 18:7 describes the righteous man as one who "does not oppress anyone, but returns the pledge to the debtor, does not commit robbery, but gives his bread to the hungry and covers the naked with clothing." Here, the return of a pledge is associated with righteousness and justice, reinforcing the ethical treatment of others. New Testament Insights While the New Testament does not directly address the concept of pledges in the same legalistic manner as the Old Testament, the principles of love, mercy, and justice continue to underpin Christian ethics. The teachings of Jesus and the apostles emphasize the spirit of the law, which includes fairness and compassion in all dealings, including financial ones. In Matthew 5:42 , Jesus teaches, "Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you." This instruction encourages generosity and a willingness to help others, reflecting the heart of the law concerning pledges. Conclusion The biblical treatment of pledges reveals a consistent concern for justice, compassion, and the protection of the vulnerable. The scriptures call for ethical behavior in financial dealings, ensuring that the dignity and basic needs of all individuals are respected. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 38:17-20And he said, I will send you a kid from the flock. And she said, Will you give me a pledge, till you send it? Nave's Topical Index Library Concerning Perseverance, and the Possibility of Falling from Grace ... Dr. Martin Luther Concerning Penitence and Indulgences. On the Authority and Certainty of the Sacred Scriptures On the Words Incarnate, and Made Man. The Second Helvetic Confession, AD 1566. Concerning Baptism. Concerning Christian Liberty Concerning Christian Liberty The First Delegated General Conference of 1812 The General Conference of 1820 Resources Why did Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh want to live on the east of the Jordan? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a millstone in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Joseph in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Pledge: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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