What does the Bible say about interest?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that God calls his people to seek their neighbors’ good rather than exploit their need for personal gain. Philippians 2:4 broadens this principle, urging believers to look not only to their own interests but also to the interests of others. In Israel’s law, Leviticus 25:36 forbids taking interest from a poor brother, and Psalms 15:5 commends the righteous person who does not profit by usury. Ezekiel 18:8, 13 treats oppressive lending as a mark of wickedness, while Proverbs 28:8 warns that wealth gained through excessive interest will ultimately benefit those who pity the poor. Christians should therefore practice generosity, justice, and mercy in financial dealings.
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Philippians 2:4
each of you not just looking to his own things, but each of you also to the things of others.
- Psalms 15:5
He who doesn't lend out his money for usury, Nor take a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things shall never be shaken.
- Ezekiel 18:8
he who has not given forth on interest, neither has taken any increase, who has withdrawn his hand from iniquity, has executed true justice between man and man,
- Proverbs 28:8
He who increases his wealth by excessive interest Gathers it for one who has pity on the poor.
- Ezekiel 18:13
has given forth on interest, and has taken increase; shall he then live? he shall not live: he has done all these abominations; he shall surely die; his blood shall be on him.
- Leviticus 25:36
Take no interest from him or profit, but fear your God; that your brother may live among you.
Study outline
Curated topical outlines from classic public-domain study works.
Nave's Topical Bible
- (Income from loaning money, usually called “usury” in the Scriptures, but not generally signifying unlawful or unjust rates) Exodus 22:25; Leviticus 25:36; Leviticus 25:37; Deuteronomy 23:19; Deuteronomy 23:20; Nehemiah 5:1-13; Psalms 15:5; Proverbs 28:8; Isaiah 24:2; Ezekiel 18:8; Ezekiel 18:9; Ezekiel 18:13
- See BORROWING
- See DEBT
- See DEBTORS
- See LENDING
- See MONEY
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