The prophet, embodying the ideal man who yearns for a life of integrity, emphasizes that among his virtues is the principle not to lend ‘his silver’ as ‘a surplus’. This transgression is condemned throughout the Scriptures. Ezekiel names taking ‘extra and surplus’ as one of the gravest of offenses (cf. Ezekiel 22:12). The law distinctly states, “Let not your brother and your neighbor give you ‘in excess’” (cf. Deut. 23:19). Further, it declares, “Leech for leech and flattery for flattery” (Jer. 9:6). The psalm also speaks of a city rife with transgressions: “Liars and flatterers shall not cease from its streets” (Psalms 54:12). In this light, the Prophet highlights human perfection, asserting: “His silver shall not be given in forfeit.”
It is truly inhumane when someone in need approaches another for a loan to sustain their life, and the latter, rather than showing compassion, seeks to exploit their desperation for personal gain. Consequently, the Lord has issued a clear directive: “And thou shalt not turn away him that seeketh to claim from thee” (Matthew 5:42). Yet the greedy man observes the suffering one at his feet, his heart hardened, indifferent to the plight of his fellow man. He remains unmoved by pleas, unyielding to tears, professing lack of resources, claiming he himself is seeking a borrower. Such dishonesty, fortified by oaths, leads him to a remorseful outcome—an oath-breaking.
As soon as the borrower names his possessions, the lender's demeanor shifts; he feigns friendliness, recalling shared acquaintances and promising to ease the conditions. Through cunning words, he ensnares the impoverished soul, obtaining a signed agreement, stripping away their freedom, and binding them into oppressive servitude for life. Do you seek wealth from the needy? If they were capable of enriching you, would they come knocking at your door? They seek assistance, yet find hostility; they yearn for healing, but are met with harm.
Instead of alleviating human suffering, you intensify their despair by stripping away their last possessions, akin to a physician who, instead of restoring health, further depletes a patient’s last remnant of strength. Just as farmers implore for rain to nourish their crops, you wish for the impoverished to exist solely for your profit. Are you unaware that, in seeking gain through perceived growth, you merely enlarge your sins?
The borrower is caught in a harrowing dilemma; looking upon his wretchedness, he despairs about repaying his debts, while confronts the harshness of his current needs, he reluctantly decides to borrow. Meanwhile, one party submits to necessity, while the other gains security through written contracts. The one who receives the money may initially rejoice, admiring the beauty of life and entertaining friends, yet as the funds diminish and obligations increase, peace evades him, and his days become burdensome. The dread of approaching deadlines haunts him, where the specter of the moneylender looms large in his thoughts.
It is said that “to the lender and the debtor” who meet, “the visitation is done by the Lord” (cf. Proverbs 29:13). The creditor, like a predatory creature, pursues the borrower, who, filled with trepidation, dreads the encounter, as poverty strangles his hope. Both count the cost: the lender finds elation in the accrual of interest, while the debtor mourns the increase of their plight. Thus, the wise counsel advises, “Drink water from your own vessels” (Proverbs 5:15); manage your resources wisely and do not seek sustenance from foreign sources. If you possess copper, clothing, livestock, or household goods, part with those instead of relinquishing your freedom.
You express shame at revealing your needs, fearing others may exploit your vulnerability. Yet, relying on the goodwill of strangers often brings greater peril. It is wiser to labor diligently for your own needs than to risk sudden wealth from another’s resources, only to lose everything in the process.
If you have something to offer, why not meet current needs with your own resources? Borrowing only trades one hardship for another and is a path fraught with ingratitude and oath-breaking. Do not entrust your life to fleeting hopes. It is shameful to inherit burdens for late repentance rather than to cherish the days when you owe nothing. The truly destitute find solace in their freedom; they laugh at the sleepless nights of the wealthy, heedless of subtle debts. Conversely, the debtor is beset by worries and anxieties, constantly evaluating their possessions, envying the lives of the affluent, and contemplating how to escape the lenders' grasp.
As the deadline approaches, the lender considers lies and excuses while strategizing to evade repayment. Why ally with a monstrous beast? The figure of a moneylender is likened to a creature that multiplies its offspring, with interest accumulating even before the initial amount is secured. This greed is rightfully termed ‘usury,’ a practice that breeds more trouble, as it engenders sorrow for the indebted.
Thus, let us not augment our difficulties through unwanted debts. Turn away from those seeking to claim more than is just, and do not burden your brothers with excess. Let the lessons of both the Old and New Testaments lead you back to the Lord, hoping for the manifold goodness that is found in Christ Jesus our Lord, to whom be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
THEOSIS