5353 interest

The charge for the lending of money on a commercial or private loan. The practice of charging interest (known as usury) is treated with caution by OT writers on account of its potential for exploitation.

Usury forbidden among the Israelites

Ex 22:25 See also Lev 25:35-37; Dt 23:19

Lending without interest: a characteristic of the righteous Ps 15:5; Eze 18:8,17; Lk 6:30,31

Exacting interest: a characteristic of the wicked Pr 28:8; Jer 15:10; Eze 18:13; Eze 22:12; 1Ti 6:9,10

Lending: a charitable, not a commercial, activity Dt 15:8; Ps 112:5; Lk 6:35

Example of oppression through usury Ne 5:6-11

Usury permissible for commercial transactions involving “outsiders”

Dt 23:20 This legislation permits rather than encourages usury and remains subject to considerations protecting the poor. See also Dt 15:1-11; Mt 25:27 pp Lk 19:23

See also