What the Bible Teaches About Interest- Insights and Interpretations

What does the Bible say about interest? This question has intrigued many Christians over the years, as they seek to understand the teachings of the Bible in relation to financial matters. The Bible, as a sacred text for Christians, offers guidance on various aspects of life, including finance. In this article, we will explore the biblical perspective on interest and its implications for believers today.

Interest, in the context of finance, refers to the additional amount charged by a lender for the use of borrowed money. It is a common practice in the modern world, but the Bible presents a different perspective on this matter. The Old Testament, in particular, contains several passages that address the issue of interest.

One of the most well-known verses regarding interest is found in Leviticus 25:36-37: “You must not lend on interest to your fellow Israelites, interest on money or interest on food or interest on anything that is lent for interest. To a foreigner you may lend on interest, but to your fellow Israelites you must not lend on interest.” This passage clearly indicates that the Israelites were forbidden to charge interest on loans to their fellow Israelites, but they could charge interest to non-Israelites.

The New Testament also touches on the subject of interest. In Luke 6:35, Jesus says, “But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.” While this verse does not explicitly mention interest, it emphasizes the importance of lending without expecting anything in return, which can be interpreted as a moral stance against charging interest.

The biblical stance against interest can be understood in several ways. Firstly, it reflects the principle of fairness and justice. Charging interest can lead to a cycle of debt, as borrowers may struggle to repay the principal amount along with the interest, causing them to borrow more money to cover their expenses. This can create a form of economic slavery, which the Bible seeks to prevent.

Secondly, the biblical prohibition on interest can be seen as a reflection of God’s concern for the poor and vulnerable. In the Old Testament, God commands His people to show compassion and mercy to the poor, including providing them with loans without interest. This demonstrates God’s compassion for those who are less fortunate and His desire for social justice.

In the modern world, the biblical teachings on interest may seem outdated or irrelevant. However, many Christians continue to seek guidance on this issue, considering the moral implications of charging interest. Some argue that the biblical prohibition on interest is limited to the context of ancient Israel and does not apply to modern financial systems. Others believe that the principles of fairness, justice, and compassion should still guide Christians in their financial decisions.

In conclusion, the Bible offers a unique perspective on interest, emphasizing the importance of fairness, justice, and compassion in financial matters. While the specific application of these teachings may vary in different contexts, the underlying principles remain relevant for Christians today. As believers seek to live out their faith in all aspects of life, including finance, understanding the biblical stance on interest can provide valuable guidance and moral insight.