In biblical times, the concept of banking and financial transactions was markedly different from modern practices. However, the Bible does provide insights into the role and perception of bankers and moneylenders within the context of ancient Israelite society and early Christianity.

Old Testament Context

The Old Testament does not explicitly mention "bankers" as we understand them today, but it does address the practice of lending and borrowing money. The Mosaic Law provided specific guidelines for financial transactions among the Israelites. For instance, Exodus 22:25 states, "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 command reflects a concern for social justice and the protection of the poor from exploitation.

The practice of charging interest, or usury, was generally frowned upon within the Israelite community, especially when dealing with fellow Israelites. Deuteronomy 23:19-20 further clarifies, "You must not charge your brother interest on money, food, or any other type of loan. You may charge a foreigner interest, but you must not charge your brother interest, so that the LORD your God may bless you in everything to which you put your hand in the land you are entering to possess."

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the role of bankers and moneylenders becomes more apparent, particularly in the parables of Jesus. The Parable of the Talents, found in Matthew 25:14-30, provides a glimpse into the financial practices of the time. In this parable, a master entrusts his servants with talents (a form of currency) and expects them to invest and multiply them. The servant who merely hides his talent is rebuked, and the master says, "Then you should have deposited my money with the bankers, and on my return I would have received it back with interest" (Matthew 25:27). This indicates that banking and earning interest were known practices, even if not universally accepted.

The cleansing of the temple by Jesus, as recorded in Matthew 21:12-13 , also highlights the presence of money changers and those who profited from financial transactions within the sacred space. Jesus overturned their tables, declaring, "It is written, 'My house will be called a house of prayer.' But you are making it 'a den of robbers.'" This act underscores the tension between commerce and religious devotion, as well as the potential for financial exploitation within religious settings.

Moral and Ethical Considerations

Throughout the Bible, the handling of money and the role of bankers are often tied to broader moral and ethical considerations. The love of money is cautioned against in 1 Timothy 6:10 , which states, "For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. By craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows." This warning serves as a reminder of the potential spiritual dangers associated with wealth and financial dealings.

The Bible encourages stewardship, generosity, and fairness in financial matters. Proverbs 22:7 observes, "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender," highlighting the power dynamics inherent in financial relationships. Believers are called to act justly and to care for the needy, reflecting God's character in their financial dealings.

In summary, while the Bible does not provide a detailed account of banking as a profession, it offers principles and narratives that inform a biblical understanding of financial ethics, the treatment of the poor, and the responsible use of resources.