Bible Dictionary
Usury
Usury in biblical usage generally meant interest on a loan, not necessarily excessive interest. Israelites were forbidden to charge interest to needy fellow Israelites, though interest could be charged to foreigners.
Biblical Usage
The law required Israelites to lend to their brethren without interest. The practice was condemned as a serious offense, and a righteous citizen is described as one who does not put out money at interest. After the return from exile, Nehemiah rebuked those exacting one hundredth monthly from their brethren. In the New Testament, interest appears in the parable of the talents.
Scripture References