Understanding Nehemiah 5:10

Nehemiah 5:10 states: "And likewise I, my brethren, and my servants, might exact of them money and corn: I pray you, let us leave off this usury." This verse is a significant point in Nehemiah's efforts to rectify social injustices faced by the poorer classes in Jerusalem during the rebuilding of the walls. Below is a summary of its interpretation drawn from public domain commentaries.

Commentary Insights

The insights from well-known biblical commentators highlight the moral climate of Nehemiah's time and address important themes, including justice, community responsibility, and the ethical treatment of fellow Israelites.

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of justice and community welfare, arguing that taking advantage of the needy through usury undermines the social fabric. He explains:

• Usury Critique: Nehemiah stands against the practice of usury, pointing out that this practice was contrary to the Mosaic law, which forbade charging interest on loans to fellow Israelites (Exodus 22:25).
• Personal Accountability: Henry highlights Nehemiah's commitment, noting that even as a leader, he refrains from exploiting others and urges his companions to do likewise.

Albert Barnes' Commentary

Albert Barnes provides a detailed analysis of the socio-economic implications of this verse:

• Community Solidarity: Barnes remarks that Nehemiah's refusal to engage in usury illustrates the significance of community solidarity during times of rebuilding and distress.
• Scriptural Context: He elaborates on the biblical context, correlating with Deuteronomy 23:19-20, which specifically instructs not to charge interest among brethren.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke also counters various arguments around usury and its validity:

• Injustice Against the Poor: Clarke stresses that lending money at interest was seen as a means of oppression, particularly against the poor and vulnerable population.
• Nehemiah’s Leadership: He underscores Nehemiah's role as a leader motivated by compassion and moral integrity, in contrast to the selfish practices surrounding him.

Thematic Connections

This verse is rich in themes that connect to various biblical principles:

• Justice and Fairness: The urgent call for justice in dealing with one another reflects the fundamental biblical tenet of fairness.
• The Principle of Mercy: The emphasis on showing mercy towards the needy highlights the biblical call for compassion.

Cross-References

Nehemiah 5:10 has several relevant cross-references that enrich its understanding:

• Exodus 22:25: Prohibiting usury among the Israelites.
• Leviticus 25:36-37: Instructions on lending without interest.
• Deuteronomy 23:19-20: Command to avoid interest on loans to fellow Israelites.
• Psalms 15:5: Describes characteristics of a righteous person who does not lend money at interest.
• Proverbs 28:8: Discusses the consequences of unjust gain.
• Jeremiah 22:13: Condemns those who exploit their laborers and ignore justice.
• Ezekiel 18:8: Prohibits taking advantage of others for personal gain.

Conclusion

In summary, Nehemiah 5:10 serves as a powerful reminder of the need for ethical dealings among community members. The combined insights from various commentaries stress the importance of justice while cross-referencing related scriptures reinforces the Bible's consistent call for mercy and fairness.

For those engaged in Bible cross-reference studies, understanding this verse's context and implications can pave the way for deeper explorations of biblical themes, encouraging a thematic analysis that connects the Old and New Testaments.