Greeting as a form of Ribbit & more 1. ONE TIME PENALTIES If the lender issues an interest-free loan but stipulates that there will be a one-time late fee if the loan is not satisfied by a certain date, one would not be subject to the classical Biblical Ribbit prohibition. There is however a rabbinical prohibition. Such an arrangement would be classified as Ha’arama … [Read more...]
The Avissar Family Ribbit Initiative
1. RIBBIS FROM A NON-JEW, PART 2 In our previous issue we spoke about Ribbit from a non-Jew from a Biblical standpoint. Nevertheless, Hachamim forbade lending to a non-Jew with Ribbit, if that Ribbit would’ve been classified as Ribbit D’Oraita. The reason for this decree is in order that we keep our distance and not learn from their way of life. There are however two … [Read more...]
Who is Borrower & Ribbit from a Non-Jew
The Avissar Family Ribbit Initiative 1. WHO IS CONSIDERED A BORROWER? Any time a Jew lends money to another Jew the laws of Ribbit will apply. The title “borrower” in Halacha is applied anytime a Jew borrows money or consumable commodities from another Jew. Furthermore, one who purchases merchandise on credit is also considered a borrower, and the seller – a lender. … [Read more...]
Introduction to Ribbit
Avissar Family Ribbit Initiative INTRODUCTION People will encounter many common Ribbit problems without ever realizing that they exist. Some may be questions of Ribbit D'Oraita which must be returned. Other times it can be D'Rabannan which one should be Mahmir (stringent) to return. In all cases they must be avoided. Hachamim are very stringent about any form of … [Read more...]
‘Interest’ing Accounts
Reuven allows Shimon to make a purchase on his credit card. Shimon will pay the issuing bank directly, including the interest charged by the bank, several months hence. Both men reckon that there is no Ribbit problem, because the bank isn’t owned by Jews. But Halacha views this case differently. The bank has never heard of Shimon; the responsible party on the account is … [Read more...]