thinking bible.

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how do other biblical laws about debt or lending interact with this observation in proverbs?

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

Proverbs 22:7

The rich rule over the poor. The borrower is servant to the lender.

The book of Proverbs is a collection of ancient wisdom sayings, attributed largely to King Solomon, intended to teach wisdom, discipline, and understanding. This particular proverb observes a common social reality regarding economic power dynamics.

What does this proverb invite us to consider about economic relationships and power, both personally and in wider society?

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Read alongside it

  • Deuteronomy 15:1-2

    This law commands debt release every seven years, mitigating the power of lenders.

  • Exodus 22:25

    This law prohibits charging interest on loans to fellow Israelites who are poor.

  • Matthew 6:12

    Jesus teaches his followers to pray for forgiveness of debts, both financial and moral.

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