Deuteronomy 15:3

Arabic Bible ERV 2009

يُمكِنُكَ أنْ تُطالِبَ الغَرِيبَ بِسَدادِ دَينِهِ، لَكِنْ تُلغِيَ الدَّينَ الَّذِي لَكَ عَلَى أخِيكَ.

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Deuteronomy tells us that if you lend money to a foreigner, you can expect to be paid back. However, if you lend to a fellow Israelite, you should forgive the debt. It's about the difference in how one treats foreigners and fellow believers.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have some toys. If a friend from school asks to borrow a toy, you might say, 'Sure, but you have to give it back.' But if your brother asks, you might just say, 'Keep it, no need to return it.' That's kind of what this verse is saying, but with money and between people who are part of the same community.

Historical Background

This passage was written by Moses around 1200 BC, to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land. It reflects the social and economic norms of the time, emphasizing the importance of community support and justice.

Living It Out Today

Imagine you're running a small business and a local friend asks to borrow money. Based on this verse, you might consider forgiving the debt or at least extending a grace period, as you would to a family member or close community member.

Topics

• justice
• community
• debt forgiveness
• compassion
• economic ethics
• neighborly love

Related Verses

• Exodus 22:25
• Leviticus 25:38
• Matthew 5:42
• Luke 6:35
• Romans 13:8

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the verse make a distinction between foreigners and brothers?

The distinction reflects the cultural and social norms of ancient Israel, emphasizing the importance of supporting one's community over outsiders.

Does this mean we should never lend to foreigners?

No, the verse does not prohibit lending to foreigners; it simply says debts to foreigners can be recovered, unlike debts to fellow Israelites which should be forgiven.

How can we apply this verse in our modern society?

In modern society, we can interpret this as a call to support and forgive debts within our community or among people we consider part of our 'brotherhood,' while being more cautious with outsiders.

What does this verse say about economic ethics?

This verse highlights the importance of compassion and community support in economic dealings, suggesting that economic ethics should be rooted in a sense of brotherhood and mutual support.