Bible Dictionary
BORROWING
In the Old Testament, borrowing was generally a response to poverty rather than commercial enterprise. Israel's law protected the poor by forbidding interest on loans to fellow Israelites and providing periodic release of debts.
Biblical Usage
The law forbade Israelites to charge interest to poor fellow Israelites, though interest could be taken from a foreigner. A creditor’s release of loans was required every seven years, and pledges were subject to limitations.