You asked

what forms of 'servitude' or dependency does debt create in today's globalized economy, both for individuals and nations?

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

Deuteronomy 15:6

“For Yahweh your God will bless you, as he promised you. You will lend to many nations, but you will not borrow; and you will rule over many nations, but they will not rule over you.”

This verse is part of a longer section in Deuteronomy (chapters 12-26) outlining laws and instructions given to the Israelite people as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. It sets out the ideal economic situation for the community if they follow God's covenant.

What does it mean for a society to structure its economy in a way that fosters mutual aid and avoids oppressive debt?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

Proverbs 22:7
This verse directly states that 'the borrower is servant to the lender,' highlighting the power dynamic of debt.
Nehemiah 5:1-13
This passage describes the social distress and exploitation caused by debt among the Israelites, leading to practical reforms.
Matthew 6:12
Part of the Lord's Prayer, 'forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors,' linking spiritual and financial obligations.

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