Book of Leviticus - Chapter 25 - Verse 37
Meaning
The verse 'Thou shalt not give him thy money upon usury, nor lend him thy victuals for increase.' can be found in the Bible in the book of Leviticus. This verse prohibits the practice of usury, which is the lending of money at an exorbitant interest rate. In ancient times, usury was often used as a means of taking advantage of those who were in desperate need of financial assistance. The verse also discourages the lending of food or other essentials with the intention of making a profit from it. The underlying message of this verse is to promote fairness, compassion, and generosity towards others. It encourages people to help those in need without expecting anything in return. By following this guidance, individuals can foster a sense of community and look out for the well-being of their neighbors. Overall, this verse emphasizes the importance of kindness and fairness in our interactions with others.
Theological Overview
In this verse, a command is given against giving money upon usury or lending food for increase. The concept of usury refers to the practice of charging interest on a loan, often at exorbitant rates. The prohibition against usury in this context is seen as a way to promote fairness and prevent exploitation of those in need. It is a call to treat others with generosity and compassion, rather than seeking to profit at their expense. The idea of lending food for increase can be understood as a warning against exploiting the vulnerability of others for personal gain. It calls for a mindset of sharing and caring for those in need, without expecting anything in return. These teachings emphasize the importance of compassion, kindness, and fairness in our interactions with others, reflecting a deeper spiritual truth about the importance of love and generosity in our relationships.