You asked

how might modern financial systems, which often rely on interest, ethically support those in need?

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

Exodus 22:25

““If you lend money to any of my people with you who is poor, you shall not be to him as a creditor. Neither shall you charge him interest.””

This verse is part of a collection of laws, often called the Book of the Covenant, given to the people of Israel shortly after their exodus from Egypt. These laws outline how they are to live as a community reflecting God's character, particularly concerning social justice and economic practices.

How might financial systems be designed to genuinely support individuals in need without replicating cycles of debt or dependency?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

Leviticus 25:35-37
Further reinforces the prohibition against charging interest to fellow Israelites, especially the poor.
Deuteronomy 23:19-20
Distinguishes between lending to an Israelite (no interest) and lending to a foreigner (interest allowed).
Luke 6:34-35
Jesus encourages lending without expecting repayment, challenging purely economic motivations.

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