Deuteronomy 24:10

When you lend anything to your neighbor, do not enter his house to collect security.

Study Bible

When you lend anything
The act of lending in ancient Israel was not merely a financial transaction but a moral and communal duty. The Hebrew root for "lend" is "lavah," which implies a sense of joining or binding together. This reflects the interconnectedness of the community, where lending was an act of support and solidarity. Lending was often done without interest, especially among fellow Israelites, as a way to ensure that the community thrived together. This principle underscores the importance of generosity and compassion in financial dealings, reminding us that our resources are ultimately God's provision to be shared with others.

to your neighbor
The term "neighbor" in Hebrew is "rea," which extends beyond mere proximity to encompass fellow members of the covenant community. This concept is deeply rooted in the command to love one's neighbor as oneself (Leviticus 19:18). In the context of Deuteronomy, the neighbor is not just a fellow Israelite but a brother or sister in faith, highlighting the familial bonds that should govern interactions. This reinforces the idea that our actions towards others should be guided by love, respect, and a sense of shared identity in God's family.

do not enter his house
The prohibition against entering a neighbor's house to collect security is a profound statement on the respect for personal dignity and privacy. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, a person's home was their sanctuary, a place of safety and honor. The Hebrew word for "house" is "bayit," which signifies not just a physical structure but the household and family within. By forbidding entry, the law protects the borrower from shame and intrusion, emphasizing the importance of treating others with respect and preserving their dignity, even in financial matters.

to collect security
The concept of "security" or "pledge" in Hebrew is "avot," which refers to collateral given to guarantee a loan. In the ancient world, this could be a garment or tool essential for daily life. The law's instruction not to forcibly collect security underscores the principle of mercy over strict justice. It reflects God's character, who is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in love (Exodus 34:6). This teaches us that our dealings should be marked by kindness and understanding, prioritizing the well-being of others over rigid adherence to rules.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Deuteronomy, delivering God's laws to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The audience receiving the laws, God's chosen people in the Old Testament.

3. Neighbor
Refers to fellow Israelites, emphasizing community and mutual respect.

4. Lending and Security
The act of lending and the practice of taking collateral, which is regulated by this law.

5. Promised Land
The context in which these laws are given, as the Israelites prepare to enter and settle in it.

Teaching Points

Respect for Personal Space
The command not to enter a neighbor's house to collect security emphasizes respecting personal boundaries and dignity.

Compassion in Financial Dealings
This law encourages lenders to act with compassion and understanding, recognizing the humanity of the borrower.

Community and Trust
By not intruding into a neighbor's home, the law fosters trust and community cohesion, essential for a healthy society.

God's Concern for Justice
This law reflects God's desire for justice and fairness in all aspects of life, including economic transactions.

Practical Love for Neighbors
The application of this law is a practical expression of loving one's neighbor, as it requires consideration and empathy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Deuteronomy 24:10 reflect God's character and His concern for justice and fairness?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of respecting personal boundaries in our modern financial dealings?

3. How does this verse connect with the broader biblical theme of loving your neighbor as yourself?

4. What are some practical ways we can show compassion and understanding in our interactions with others, especially in financial matters?

5. How can the principles in Deuteronomy 24:10 guide us in building trust and community in our personal and professional relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 22:25-27
Discusses similar laws about lending and taking collateral, emphasizing compassion and fairness.

Leviticus 19:18
Commands to love your neighbor as yourself, which underpins the spirit of the law in Deuteronomy 24:10.

Matthew 7:12
The Golden Rule, which aligns with the principle of treating others with respect and dignity.

James 2:8
Refers to the royal law of loving your neighbor, connecting to the ethical treatment of others in financial dealings.