Leviticus 25:36 - Take no interest from him or profit, but fear your God; that your brother may live among you.
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What does "Leviticus 25:36" mean?
Leviticus 25:36, "Take no interest from him or profit, but fear your God; that your brother may live among you," is a powerful statement about economic justice and community responsibility. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
"Take no interest from him or profit...": This directly prohibits lending money to a fellow Israelite with the expectation of receiving interest (usury) or any other form of profit derived from their hardship. This isn't necessarily a blanket prohibition against all lending; it's specifically about lending to a brother (fellow Israelite) who is in need. The emphasis is on providing help, not exploiting someone's vulnerability for personal gain.
"...but fear your God...": This is the motivation behind the command. It's not just about being nice; it's about recognizing that you are accountable to a higher authority, God. It is about understanding you have an obligation to treat people justly and compassionately, because God commands it. The "fear of God" in this context means a deep reverence for God's holiness and a desire to obey His commands.
"...that your brother may live among you.": This is the purpose of the prohibition. By avoiding exploitative lending practices, you ensure that your fellow Israelite can survive and remain a productive member of the community. The goal is to prevent them from falling into deeper poverty, losing their land, or being forced into servitude due to debt. It emphasizes the importance of community solidarity and mutual support. The ability to live among you is significant, emphasizing belonging, dignity, and participation in the shared life of the community.
In essence, the verse promotes:
Compassionate lending: Helping those in need without seeking personal financial gain.
Social justice: Protecting vulnerable members of society from economic exploitation.
Community responsibility: Recognizing that the well-being of each individual affects the well-being of the whole community.
Theological motivation: Acting justly and compassionately out of reverence for God.
Contemporary Relevance:
While this verse was originally addressed to the Israelites, its principles have broader implications. It speaks to the ethical dimensions of finance, the dangers of predatory lending, and the importance of creating a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Many religious and ethical traditions continue to grapple with the moral implications of interest, debt, and economic justice in light of similar principles. This verse continues to be relevant in discussions about fair lending practices, poverty alleviation, and economic inequality.
Leviticus 25:36 - Take no interest from him or profit, but fear your God; that your brother may live among you.
What does "Leviticus 25:36" mean?
Leviticus 25:36, "Take no interest from him or profit, but fear your God; that your brother may live among you," is a powerful statement about economic justice and community responsibility. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
"Take no interest from him or profit...": This directly prohibits lending money to a fellow Israelite with the expectation of receiving interest (usury) or any other form of profit derived from their hardship. This isn't necessarily a blanket prohibition against all lending; it's specifically about lending to a brother (fellow Israelite) who is in need. The emphasis is on providing help, not exploiting someone's vulnerability for personal gain.
"...but fear your God...": This is the motivation behind the command. It's not just about being nice; it's about recognizing that you are accountable to a higher authority, God. It is about understanding you have an obligation to treat people justly and compassionately, because God commands it. The "fear of God" in this context means a deep reverence for God's holiness and a desire to obey His commands.
"...that your brother may live among you.": This is the purpose of the prohibition. By avoiding exploitative lending practices, you ensure that your fellow Israelite can survive and remain a productive member of the community. The goal is to prevent them from falling into deeper poverty, losing their land, or being forced into servitude due to debt. It emphasizes the importance of community solidarity and mutual support. The ability to live among you is significant, emphasizing belonging, dignity, and participation in the shared life of the community.
In essence, the verse promotes:
Compassionate lending: Helping those in need without seeking personal financial gain.
Social justice: Protecting vulnerable members of society from economic exploitation.
Community responsibility: Recognizing that the well-being of each individual affects the well-being of the whole community.
Theological motivation: Acting justly and compassionately out of reverence for God.
Contemporary Relevance:
While this verse was originally addressed to the Israelites, its principles have broader implications. It speaks to the ethical dimensions of finance, the dangers of predatory lending, and the importance of creating a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Many religious and ethical traditions continue to grapple with the moral implications of interest, debt, and economic justice in light of similar principles. This verse continues to be relevant in discussions about fair lending practices, poverty alleviation, and economic inequality.