Applying Amos 2:8, Ezekiel 18:14-16, Proverbs 20:16, and Proverbs 22:26-27 to the issue of loans, this article shows that in the Old Testament secured debt was permitted when necessary, and that the rights of the poor and needy were protected.

Applying Exodus 22:26-27 and Deuteronomy 24 to the issue of loans, this article shows that biblical loans were not commercial, but charitable. By giving them, God's people showed that they belonged to Him. These laws of God were intended to contribute to the well-being of society.