Leviticus 25:36 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 25:36 mean?

Leviticus 25:36 tells the Israelites not to charge interest or make a profit from lending to a fellow Israelite in need, but instead to respect God so that their fellow Israelite can continue to live among them. The verse emphasizes treating one’s “brother” fairly and with compassion, rather than taking advantage of their hardship.

In this verse, God is speaking through Moses to the people of Israel about how they should treat each other, especially when someone is struggling financially. The broader context is the laws of the Jubilee year, where debts are forgiven and land is returned, aiming to prevent poverty from becoming permanent. The verse highlights that helping a fellow Israelite should be motivated by reverence for God, not by seeking personal gain.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 25:36

• The word for “usury” is נֶשֶׁךְ (neshekh), which means interest or a fee charged for lending money. In this context, it refers to any profit made from lending to someone in need, not just excessive interest.
• The word for “increase” is תַּרְבִּית (tarbit), meaning profit or gain. This word broadens the command to include any extra charge, not just monetary interest, making the instruction even more comprehensive.
• The word for “fear” is יָרֵא (yare’), which means to have reverence or deep respect. Here, it points to the idea that how one treats others is directly connected to one’s attitude toward God.

Why Leviticus 25:36 matters

• Leviticus 25:36 clarifies that the command is not just about avoiding high interest, but about not seeking any profit from a fellow Israelite’s hardship, which is a broader and more compassionate standard.
• The verse connects financial dealings with spiritual responsibility, showing that respect for God is demonstrated by fair and generous treatment of others.
• This instruction fits into the larger theme of Leviticus 25, where the community is called to protect the vulnerable and ensure that no one is permanently trapped in poverty.