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You asked

how do later prophets or jesus's teachings expand or refine these lending principles?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Deuteronomy 23:19-20

“You shall not lend on interest to your brother: interest of money, interest of food, interest of anything that is lent on interest. You may lend on interest to a foreigner; but to your brother you shall not lend on interest, that Yahweh your God may bless you in all that you put your hand to, in the land into which you are going to possess it.”

This passage is part of Moses' farewell address to the Israelites, given just before they enter the promised land. It's a set of laws designed to structure their society, ensuring justice and economic stability within the community, especially for those most vulnerable.

What does a distinction between 'brother' and 'foreigner' in economic dealings ask of our understanding of community and responsibility today?

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Read alongside it

  • Exodus 22:25

    Another foundational law prohibiting charging interest to the poor among the Israelites.

  • Luke 6:34-35

    Jesus expands on lending, encouraging lending without expecting repayment, especially to those who cannot repay.

  • Nehemiah 5:10-11

    Nehemiah confronts Jewish leaders who were charging excessive interest to their own people during a time of hardship.

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