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what were common lending practices and expectations in 1st century judea?

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

Exodus 22:25

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

This verse is part of the covenant laws given to Moses on Mount Sinai, establishing guidelines for how the Israelites were to live as God's people. It comes after laws about personal injury and property, and before further instructions on justice and worship.

How does our approach to financial assistance for those in need reflect or diverge from the spirit of this ancient instruction?

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Read alongside it

  • Deuteronomy 23:19-20

    This passage elaborates on interest, distinguishing between lending to fellow Israelites and foreigners.

  • Luke 6:34-35

    Jesus's teaching encourages lending without expecting repayment, connecting to a spirit of generosity.

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