The Mosaic law encouraged the practice of lending (Deut. 15:7; Psa 37:26; Matt. 5:42); but it forbade the exaction of interest except from foreigners. Usury was strongly condemned (Prov. 28:8; Ezek. 18:8, Ezek. 18: 13, 17;22:12; Psa 15:5). On the Sabbatical year all pecuniary obligations were cancelled (Deut. 15:1). These regulations prevented the accumulation of debt.