In the discussion of usury within religious contexts, particularly in Christianity, interpretations vary, and the stance on interest lending has been a topic of debate. In the Hebrew scriptures, usury is condemned, explicitly stating that lending with interest is a sin, as found in Deuteronomy 23:19–20. However, the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, particularly in one of his parables recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, offer a nuanced perspective on financial matters.
In Matthew 25, Jesus tells the Parable of the Talents, where a master entrusts his servants with talents (a unit of money). Two of the servants invest and double the talents they were given, while the third buries his talent for fear of losing it. When the master returns, he praises the first two servants for their initiative and profitability but condemns the third for his inaction. The master’s rebuke seems to imply that investment and earning interest are commendable actions. This parable has been interpreted by some as endorsing responsible financial stewardship, including investment to generate return.
Overall, while the Hebrew scriptures explicitly forbid usury and lending at interest, Jesus’ teachings provide a more nuanced perspective on financial matters, suggesting that investment and earning interest can be acceptable if done responsibly. This nuance in interpretation underscores the complexity of applying ancient religious teachings to contemporary economic practices.
(Response: Jesus indirectly endorsed responsible financial stewardship, including investment to generate return, in his Parable of the Talents recorded in Matthew 25.)