Borrowing
/BOR-oh-ing/
Summary
The practice of receiving goods or money with the expectation of return, regulated in the Mosaic Law as a form of charity.
☩Mosaic Regulations
Unlike modern commercial loans, borrowing in ancient Israel was primarily charitable, helping those in poverty. The Law prohibited charging interest to fellow Israelites but allowed it with foreigners. Every seventh year, debts were to be released.
Key verses:Exodus 22:25Deuteronomy 23:19-20Deuteronomy 15:1-3
☩From the Egyptians
Before the Exodus, the Israelites 'borrowed' (or asked for) jewels of silver, gold, and raiment from the Egyptians. Various interpretations explain this: as compensation for their labor, as gifts freely given, or as items that became lawful spoil when Egypt pursued them in war.
Key verses:Exodus 3:22Exodus 11:2Exodus 12:35
Related Verses13 mentions
References
- 1.James Orr (ed.), "Borrowing," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. I (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 2.John McClintock and James Strong, "Borrowing," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. I (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).