◄ Leviticus 25:36 ►
Do not take any interest or profit from him, but fear your God, that your countryman may live among you.
Study Bible
Do not take any interest or profit from him
The Hebrew word for "interest" is "neshekh," which literally means "a bite." This term is used metaphorically to describe the financial burden or "bite" that interest can impose on a borrower. In ancient Israel, the economy was largely agrarian, and loans were often sought out of necessity rather than for business expansion. The prohibition against charging interest to fellow Israelites was a safeguard against exploitation and ensured that the community remained supportive and compassionate. This command reflects God's desire for His people to practice justice and mercy, emphasizing the importance of relationships over financial gain.

but fear your God
The Hebrew word for "fear" is "yare," which encompasses a profound respect, reverence, and awe for God. This phrase serves as a reminder that the Israelites' actions towards one another should be governed by their relationship with God. The fear of God is a central theme throughout the Bible, encouraging believers to live in a way that honors Him. It is not a fear of punishment, but a recognition of God's holiness and authority. By fearing God, the Israelites were to reflect His character in their dealings with each other, promoting a community built on trust and integrity.

so that your countryman may continue to live among you
The phrase "continue to live" underscores the importance of community and the well-being of every individual within it. The Hebrew word "chayah" means to live or to have life, indicating not just survival but a flourishing existence. This commandment is rooted in the covenant relationship between God and His people, where the welfare of each member is a collective responsibility. By prohibiting interest, God ensures that no one is driven into poverty or despair, thus maintaining the social fabric of Israel. This reflects the broader biblical principle of loving one's neighbor and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive within the community.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Israelites
The primary audience of the Levitical laws, including the instructions in Leviticus 25, which were given to guide their community life and ensure justice and compassion among them.

2. Moses
The prophet through whom God delivered the laws to the Israelites. He served as the mediator between God and the people.

3. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The laws in Leviticus were intended to govern the Israelites' conduct in this land.

4. Jubilee Year
A significant event in Israel's calendar, occurring every 50th year, where debts were forgiven, and land was returned to original owners. This context is crucial for understanding the economic and social principles in Leviticus 25.

5. God
The ultimate authority and lawgiver, whose character and holiness are reflected in the laws given to Israel.
Teaching Points
Fear of God as a Guiding Principle
The command to "fear your God" underscores the importance of reverence for God in ethical decision-making. Our actions towards others should reflect our respect for God's authority and character.

Community and Compassion
The prohibition against charging interest is rooted in the value of community support and compassion. Christians are called to prioritize relationships and mutual aid over personal gain.

Economic Justice
This verse highlights God's concern for economic justice and the well-being of all community members. Believers are encouraged to advocate for fair economic practices and support those in financial distress.

Living Out Faith in Practical Ways
The practical application of faith involves tangible actions that reflect God's love and justice, such as helping those in need without expecting profit.

Trust in God's Provision
By not charging interest, Israelites were to trust in God's provision rather than relying on financial exploitation. Christians are similarly called to trust in God's faithfulness and provision.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the command in Leviticus 25:36 to not take interest reflect God's character and priorities for His people?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of not charging interest in our modern context, especially in our personal and community relationships?

3. How does the concept of fearing God influence our financial decisions and interactions with others?

4. What are some practical ways we can support those in financial need within our church or community, reflecting the spirit of Leviticus 25:36?

5. How do the teachings in Leviticus 25:36 connect with Jesus' teachings on generosity and love for one's neighbor in the New Testament?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Exodus 22:25
This verse also prohibits charging interest to fellow Israelites, emphasizing the importance of compassion and community support.

Deuteronomy 23:19-20
These verses expand on the prohibition of charging interest, distinguishing between Israelites and foreigners, and reinforcing the principle of generosity within the community.

Proverbs 28:8
This verse warns against unjust gain through interest, highlighting the moral implications of exploiting others financially.

Nehemiah 5:7-11
Nehemiah confronts the nobles and officials for charging interest, demonstrating the practical application of Levitical law in post-exilic Israel.
Sermons
A Sabbath of Rest unto the LandW. H. Jellie.Leviticus 25:2-55
Deliverance from SinHoward James.Leviticus 25:2-55
Freedom Through ChristT. De Witt Talmage.Leviticus 25:2-55
Jubilee GladnessJ. Cairns.Leviticus 25:2-55
Land Laws Among Other NationsM. M. Kalisch, Ph. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
Land TenureT. T. Munger.Leviticus 25:2-55
Laws of Trade-WagesHom. ReviewLeviticus 25:2-55
Lessons from the Sabbatical YearF. W. Brown.Leviticus 25:2-55
Liberty Through ChristRichard Newton, D. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
Man Need not Despair of -ProvidenceBp. Babington.Leviticus 25:2-55
Practical Reliance Upon GodIndian Witness.Leviticus 25:2-55
Released from DebtChristian AgeLeviticus 25:2-55
Results of Jubilee YearT. Guthrie, D. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
Sojourners with GodHomilistLeviticus 25:2-55
The Hebrew System of Land TenureR. Reid.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Joyful SoundC. S. Robinson, D. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
The JubileeHomilistLeviticus 25:2-55
The JubileeHomilistLeviticus 25:2-55
The Jubilee a Type of the GospelWm. Sleigh.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Jubilee Year: its Fourfold SignificanceW. H. Jellie.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Oppressor Rebuked and the Oppression RemovedC. F. S. Money, M. A.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Purpose of the Sabbatical YearM. M. Kalisch, Ph. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Resemblance Between the Year of Jubilee and the GospelT. B. Baker.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Sabbath of the FieldsH. Macmillan, D. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Sabbatic Year and JubileeJ. A. Seiss, D. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Sinner's Chains are Self ForgedPreacher's Lantern.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Year of JubileeA. G. Brown.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Year of JubileeA. H. Currier.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Year of JubileeWalter Roberts, M. A.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Year of JubileeD. C. Hughes, M. A.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Year of JubileeT. Binney.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Year SabbathDr. Ide.Leviticus 25:2-55
What Shall We Eat the Seventh Year?A. G. Brown.Leviticus 25:2-55
The JubileeR.M. Edgar Leviticus 25:8-55
Year of JubileeW. Clarkson Leviticus 25:8-55
Year of Jubilee: Ii. the World's RedemptionW. Clarkson Leviticus 25:8-55
Year of Jubilee: Iii. the Blessed KingdomW. Clarkson Leviticus 25:8-55
Justice and MercyJ.A. Macdonald Leviticus 25:35-55
The Law of Personal ServitudeR.A. Redford Leviticus 25:35-55
People
Israelites, Levites, Moses
Places
Canaan, Egypt, Mount Sinai
Topics
Afraid, Beside, Brother, Continue, Countryman, Fear, Goods, Hast, Increase, Interest, Kind, Money, Profit, Revere, Takest, Usurious, Usury
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Leviticus 25:23-43

     5504   rights

Leviticus 25:35-36

     8337   reverence, and behaviour

Leviticus 25:35-37

     5353   interest

Leviticus 25:35-42

     5909   motives, importance

Leviticus 25:35-43

     5274   credit

Library
Sojourners with God
'The land shall not be sold for ever: for the land is Mine; for ye are strangers and sojourners with Me.' --LEV. xxv. 23. The singular institution of the Jubilee year had more than one purpose. As a social and economical arrangement it tended to prevent the extremes of wealth and poverty. Every fiftieth year the land was to revert to its original owners, the lineal descendants of those who had 'come in with the conqueror,' Joshua. Debts were to be remitted, slaves emancipated, and so the mountains …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

God's Slaves
'For they are My servants, which I brought forth out of the land of Egypt; they shall not be sold as bondmen.' --LEV. xxv. 42. This is the basis of the Mosaic legislation as to slavery. It did not suppress but regulated that accursed system. Certainly Hebrew slavery was a very different thing from that of other nations. In the first place, no Jew was to be a slave. To that broad principle there were exceptions, such as the case of the man who voluntarily gave himself up to his creditor. But even …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Kinsman Redeemer
'After that he is sold he may be redeemed again; one of his brethren may redeem him.'--LEV. xxv. 48. There are several of the institutions and precepts of the Mosaic legislation which, though not prophetic, nor typical, have yet remarkable correspondences with lofty Christian truth. They may be used as symbols, if only we remember that we are diverting them from their original purpose. How singularly these words lend themselves to the statement of the very central truths of Christianity--a slavery …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Boniface viii Ad 1294-1303.
PART I In Celestine's place was chosen Benedict Gaetani, who, although even older than the worn-out and doting late pope, was still full of strength, both in body and in mind. Benedict (who took the name of Boniface VIII) is said to have been very learned, especially in matters at law; but his pride and ambition led him into attempts which ended in his own ruin, and did serious harm to the papacy. In the year 1300 Boniface set on foot what was called the Jubilee. You will remember the Jubilee which …
J. C. Roberston—Sketches of Church History, from AD 33 to the Reformation

The Kinsman-Redeemer
'Their Redeemer is strong; the Lord of Hosts is His name: He shall thoroughly plead their cause.'--JER. l. 34. Among the remarkable provisions of the Mosaic law there were some very peculiar ones affecting the next-of-kin. The nearest living blood relation to a man had certain obligations and offices to discharge, under certain contingencies, in respect of which he received a special name; which is sometimes translated in the Old Testament 'Redeemer,' and sometimes 'Avenger' of blood. What the etymological …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Day of Atonement
Now, I shall invite your attention to the ceremonies of this solemn day, taking the different parts in detail. First, we shall consider the person who made the atonement; secondly, the sacrifice whereby the atonement was typically made; thirdly, the effects of the atonement; and fourthly, our behaviour on the recollection of the atonement, as well set forth by the conduct prescribed to the Israelites on that day. I. First, THE PERSON WHO WAS TO MAKE THE ATONEMENT. And at the outset, we remark that …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 2: 1856

Appeal to the Christian Women of the South
BY A.E. GRIMKE. "Then Mordecai commanded to answer Esther, Think not within thyself that thou shalt escape in the king's house more than all the Jews. For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place: but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this. And Esther bade them return Mordecai this answer:--and so will I go in unto the king, …
Angelina Emily Grimke—An Appeal to the Christian Women of the South

Sin and Forgiveness Between Brethren.
(Autumn, a.d. 29.) ^A Matt. XVIII. 15-35. ^a 15 And if thy brother sin against thee, go, show him his fault between thee and him alone: if he hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. [Having warned against giving offense, Jesus now shows how to act when offense is received. The fault is to be pointed out to the offender, but for the purpose of gaining him--not from a desire to humiliate him. The offended is to seek the offender, and the offender is likewise to seek the offended (Matt. xv. 23, 24), …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Commerce
The remarkable change which we have noticed in the views of Jewish authorities, from contempt to almost affectation of manual labour, could certainly not have been arbitrary. But as we fail to discover here any religious motive, we can only account for it on the score of altered political and social circumstances. So long as the people were, at least nominally, independent, and in possession of their own land, constant engagement in a trade would probably mark an inferior social stage, and imply …
Alfred Edersheim—Sketches of Jewish Social Life

"And the Redeemer Shall Come unto Zion, and unto them that Turn,"
Isaiah lix. 20.--"And the Redeemer shall come unto Zion, and unto them that turn," &c. Doctrines, as things, have their seasons and times. Every thing is beautiful in its season. So there is no word of truth, but it hath a season and time in which it is beautiful. And indeed that is a great part of wisdom, to bring forth everything in its season, to discern when and where, and to whom it is pertinent and edifying, to speak such and such truths. But there is one doctrine that is never out of season, …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

The Eighth Commandment
Thou shalt not steal.' Exod 20: 15. AS the holiness of God sets him against uncleanness, in the command Thou shalt not commit adultery;' so the justice of God sets him against rapine and robbery, in the command, Thou shalt not steal.' The thing forbidden in this commandment, is meddling with another man's property. The civil lawyers define furtum, stealth or theft to be the laying hands unjustly on that which is another's;' the invading another's right. I. The causes of theft. [1] The internal causes …
Thomas Watson—The Ten Commandments

Baptism
Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them,' &c. Matt 28: 19. I. The way whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemptions, is, in the use of the sacraments. What are the sacraments in general? They are visible signs of invisible grace. Is not the word of God sufficient to salvation? What need then is there of sacraments? We must not be wise above what is written. It is God's will that his church …
Thomas Watson—The Ten Commandments

Leviticus
The emphasis which modern criticism has very properly laid on the prophetic books and the prophetic element generally in the Old Testament, has had the effect of somewhat diverting popular attention from the priestly contributions to the literature and religion of Israel. From this neglect Leviticus has suffered most. Yet for many reasons it is worthy of close attention; it is the deliberate expression of the priestly mind of Israel at its best, and it thus forms a welcome foil to the unattractive …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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