As with the word lending
in the previous phrase, the precise understanding of the word translated as exacting of interest
is hard to determine. On the other hand, the phrase let us abandon
is crystal clear. The words let us
imply an instruction valid not just to yonder oppressors (the nobles and the officials) but also to Nehemiah himself (us
). Going forward, one and all should abandon
whatever was immoral and unbrotherly about the way one was treating the other, that is, somehow advantaging oneself at the brothers’ expense. Instead, from now on each should treat the other with the care and respect that befits fellow members of God’s family (Leviticus 19:9–10; Leviticus 25:35–38; Philippians 2:3–5). Indeed, this is the explicit instruction Nehemiah says next.
10 Moreover, I and my brothers and my servants are lending them money and grain. Let us abandon this exacting of interest.