The Greek word daneízō, represented by G1155, is defined as to loan on interest; reflexively, to borrow. It appears 4 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. The term covers the complementary actions of lending and borrowing, often within the context of discipleship and ethical conduct.
In its biblical usage, G1155 is central to teachings on generosity. It appears in the command to not turn away from someone who "would borrow" Matthew 5:42. The concept is further expanded in Luke's gospel, where believers are instructed to "lend, hoping for nothing again" as a reflection of their identity as "children of the Highest" Luke 6:35. This is contrasted with the world's standard, where "sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again" Luke 6:34.
Several related words provide a broader context for the actions of lending and borrowing:
- G1325 dídōmi (to give): Defined broadly as to give, bestow, or deliver, this word sets a general principle of giving. It is used in the command, "Give to him that asketh thee" Matthew 5:42.
- G154 aitéō (to ask): This term means to ask, beg, or crave. It is often used in conjunction with receiving, as seen in "Give to him that asketh thee" Matthew 5:42.
- G2309 thélō (to wish, be willing): Meaning to choose, prefer, or wish, this word describes the desire or intent behind an action. It is used to describe the person who "would borrow" in Matthew 5:42, indicating their desire or need.
- G618 apolambánō (to receive): This word means to receive, often in full. It is used in Luke's teaching on lending to describe the expectation of sinners who lend in order to "receive as much again" Luke 6:34.
The theological weight of G1155 is focused on the ethics of discipleship.
- Radical Generosity: The use of G1155 establishes a command for generosity that goes beyond simple reciprocity. Believers are told to lend without expecting anything in return Luke 6:35.
- Imitating God's Character: This form of lending is directly tied to imitating God, who "is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil" Luke 6:35. The action is a practical outworking of being "children of the Highest."
- A Higher Standard: The act of lending only to "receive as much again" is identified as the practice of "sinners" Luke 6:34, setting a clear distinction between worldly financial exchange and kingdom-based relationships.
In summary, G1155 is more than a term for a financial transaction; it is a key component of Christ's ethical teaching. It defines a standard of selfless giving and lending that is motivated by the character of God, not by the hope of return. Through its use in passages like Matthew 5:42 and Luke 6:34-35, the word illustrates a practical way that believers are called to be distinct from the world, reflecting divine generosity in their dealings with others.
TRV