Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'usury' (neshech) and 'increase' (tarbit) mean in Leviticus 25:36?
A: In Leviticus 25:36, 'neshech' refers to interest charged on a loan, while 'tarbit' refers to any additional profit or benefit taken beyond repayment. The Torah forbids charging interest when lending to a fellow Jew in need. Rashi explains that this applies even to small favors or indirect benefits, emphasizing fair and compassionate treatment.
Q: Why does the Torah forbid charging interest to a fellow Jew?
A: The Torah forbids charging interest to maintain brotherhood and compassion among Jews. The Rambam (Hilchot Malveh v'Loveh 4:2) teaches that taking advantage of someone in financial distress violates the mitzvah of 'love your neighbor as yourself.' The verse concludes with 'that your brother may live with you,' showing that fair lending helps sustain communal unity.
Q: How does 'fear your God' relate to the prohibition of interest in Leviticus 25:36?
A: The phrase 'fear your God' reminds us that even if no human witnesses a hidden interest charge, God knows all actions. The Sforno explains that true fear of Heaven prevents exploitation, as one recognizes divine accountability. This principle applies especially in financial matters, where dishonesty might go unnoticed by others.
Q: Does the prohibition of interest apply to loans between Jews today?
A: Yes, the prohibition (called 'ribbit') still applies between Jews today. However, the Talmud (Bava Metzia 62a) permits a 'heter iska,' a legal partnership agreement that structures loans in a permissible way for business purposes. A rabbi should be consulted to ensure the transaction follows halachah (Jewish law).
Q: What lesson can we learn from 'that your brother may live with you' in this verse?
A: This teaches that ethical financial conduct preserves society. The Midrash (Torat Kohanim) connects this to the broader idea that exploitation destroys relationships, while fairness allows communities to thrive. Helping others without selfish gain—especially in times of need—strengthens the collective wellbeing of the Jewish people.
Prohibition of Interest (Ribbit)
The verse (Vayikra 25:36) prohibits taking neshech (interest) or tarbit (increase) from a fellow Jew. Rashi explains that neshech refers to interest deducted in advance, while tarbit refers to interest added at repayment. Both forms are forbidden as they exploit a fellow Jew in financial distress.
Fear of Heaven as Motivation
The phrase "v'yareita me'Elokecha" (but fear thy God) emphasizes that this prohibition applies even when no human court can enforce it. Rambam (Hilchot Malveh v'Loveh 4:2) teaches that violating this mitzvah demonstrates a lack of yirat Shamayim (fear of Heaven), as one might rationalize charging interest when no witnesses are present.
Preserving Brotherhood
The concluding phrase "v'chai achicha imach" (that thy brother may live with thee) highlights the social purpose of this law. The Sforno explains that charging interest destroys communal bonds, while interest-free loans sustain brotherhood. The Talmud (Bava Metzia 60b) states this mitzvah helps maintain equality among Jews.
Halachic Applications