What does the Bible say about debt?

Last updated Jul 15, 2026

Published by Bible Direct Answers · Licensed under Citation License 1.0

The Bible addresses debt in Proverbs, in the Mosaic law of release, and in the New Testament epistles.

In Proverbs 22:7:

7 The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.

Paul writes in Romans 13:8:

8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.

The law of release is set out in Deuteronomy 15:1-2:

1 At the end of every seven years thou shalt make a release. 2 And this is the manner of the release: Every creditor that lendeth ought unto his neighbour shall release it; he shall not exact it of his neighbour, or of his brother; because it is called the LORD’s release.

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