Why Did God Forbid Taking a Millstone as Collateral?

by Prisca | 30 March 2023 08:46 pm03

(Deuteronomy 24:6)

Scripture Reference:
“Do not take a pair of millstones not even the upper one as security for a debt, because that would be taking a person’s livelihood as security.”

Deuteronomy 24:6, NIV

“It is wrong to take a set of millstones, or even just the upper millstone, as security for a loan, for the owner uses it to make a living.” Deuteronomy 24:6, NLT

Historical and Cultural Context

In biblical times, the millstone was a vital household tool used for grinding grain to make flour an essential part of daily life. It was composed of two stones: a lower (stationary) stone and an upper (rotating) one. This tool was not a luxury it was as essential as a cooking pot or a stove is today.

Because it was central to survival, particularly for poor families who ground their own grain for daily meals, God strictly prohibited it from being taken as collateral for a loan.

God’s law in Deuteronomy 24:6 reveals His heart for justice and compassion especially for the poor and vulnerable. Taking a millstone as a pledge wasn’t just seizing a piece of property it was equivalent to taking someone’s very life, because it deprived them of their ability to feed themselves and their family.

This aligns with other laws found in the Torah that protect human dignity, even in economic transactions:

Exodus 22:26-27 (NIV)

“If you take your neighbor’s cloak as a pledge, return it by sunset, because that cloak is the only covering your ne

ighbor has… When they cry out to me, I will hear, for I am compassionate.”

Leviticus 25:35-37 (NIV)

“If any of your fellow Israelites become poor and are unable to support themselves… do not take int

erest or any profit from them, but fear your God…”

These laws collectively point to a key biblical principle: economics must never override mercy.

Practical and Spiritual Lessons

God Prioritizes Human Life Over Financial Gain
The law protects the poor by ensuring that their basic tools for survival aren’t confiscated. This shows that God values life more than material repayment.
Lending Should Be Anchored in Compassion
As Christians, we are encouraged to lend generously without expecting anything in return, especially when helping those in dire need.

“Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.” Matthew 5:42 (NIV)

Faith That Reflects God’s Justice and Mercy
Believers are called to mirror God’s character not just in worship, but in daily interactions, including business and finance.

“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.” Isaiah 1:17 (NIV)

God’s command not to take a millstone as a pledge isn’t just about ancient lending practices it reveals a divine standard of mercy, justice, and compassion. We are reminded that helping the poor should come from a heart of love, not from a desire for profit. When we reflect this grace, we honor God and make our faith attractive to others.

May the Lord bless you as you walk in His wisdom and love.

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