Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the role of a moneylender was significant in the economic and social fabric of society. Moneylenders, also known as usurers, were individuals who lent money to others, often at interest. The practice of lending and borrowing is addressed in various parts of the Bible, reflecting both the necessity and the potential moral pitfalls associated with it.Old Testament Context The Old Testament provides several guidelines regarding lending and borrowing, emphasizing fairness and compassion. In Exodus 22:25, the Israelites are instructed, "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 highlights the importance of mercy and the prohibition of exploiting the poor through interest. Leviticus 25:35-37 further elaborates on this principle: "If your brother becomes impoverished and cannot support himself among you, help him as you would a foreigner or stranger, so that he can continue to live among you. 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." These passages underscore the call to support fellow community members without seeking personal gain. New Testament Insights In the New Testament, Jesus addresses the issue of lending in the context of love and generosity. In the Sermon on the Mount, He teaches, "Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you" (Matthew 5:42). This instruction encourages believers to be open-handed and willing to help those in need, reflecting the character of God. The parable of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18:23-35 also touches on the theme of debt and forgiveness. The servant, who is forgiven a massive debt by his master, fails to show the same mercy to a fellow servant who owes him a much smaller amount. This parable illustrates the expectation of mercy and forgiveness, contrasting the harshness often associated with moneylending. Moral and Ethical Considerations The Bible consistently warns against the dangers of greed and exploitation in financial dealings. Proverbs 22:7 states, "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender." This proverb highlights the power dynamics inherent in lending and borrowing, cautioning against the potential for oppression. Furthermore, the Bible encourages believers to practice generosity and to prioritize relationships over financial gain. In Luke 6:34-35, Jesus says, "And 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 without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because He is kind to the ungrateful and wicked." Conclusion The biblical perspective on moneylending is one that balances the practical needs of society with a strong ethical framework. It calls for compassion, fairness, and a focus on the well-being of others, warning against the potential for exploitation and encouraging a spirit of generosity and mercy. Greek 1157. danistes -- a moneylender ... a moneylender. Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration: danistes Phonetic Spelling: (dan-ice-tace') Short Definition: a lender, creditor Definition: a ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1157.htm - 6k Library The Christian Conception of Life Has Already Arisen in Our Society ... Thesaurus Moneylender (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Moneylender (2 Occurrences). Luke 7:41 "A certain lender had two debtors. The one owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. ... /m/moneylender.htm - 6k Money-lender (1 Occurrence) Money-grubber (1 Occurrence) Resources What does the Bible say about lending money? | GotQuestions.orgHow many parables are in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is usury in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Moneylender: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Moneylender (2 Occurrences)Luke 7:41 Exodus 22:25 Subtopics Related Terms |
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