Old Testament
Deuteronomy 24:6
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
No one may take a millstone — either the upper or lower stone — as collateral for a debt. That would be taking away someone's ability to make a living.
Compare translations
No man shall take the nether or the upper millstone to pledge: for he taketh a man’s life to pledge.
What Deuteronomy 24:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the law emphasizes the importance of protecting people's livelihoods. A millstone, used for grinding grain, is essential for making food. Taking it as collateral for a loan would mean taking away someone's means to earn a living. This law reflects a deep concern for justice and compassion in society. It reminds us that financial transactions should not harm others or strip them of their basic needs. The principle here is about valuing human dignity and ensuring that people can support themselves. By prohibiting the seizure of such vital tools, the law encourages fairness and respect in economic dealings. It teaches us to consider the impact of our actions on others, especially those who are vulnerable. This verse calls for empathy and responsibility in our interactions with one another, especially in matters of finance and support. It’s a timeless reminder that our choices should uplift rather than oppress those around us, fostering a community where everyone can thrive.
How to apply Deuteronomy 24:6 to your life
When dealing with financial matters, consider how your actions affect others. Avoid taking advantage of someone’s situation, especially if it threatens their ability to provide for themselves. Strive to create agreements that are fair and respectful, ensuring that everyone involved can maintain their dignity and livelihood. This approach fosters trust and community support, essential for a healthy society. Remember, your choices matter.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Deuteronomy 24:6
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Deuteronomy 24:6
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Deuteronomy
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 24:6 mean?
Deuteronomy 24:6 prohibits taking a millstone as collateral for a debt, emphasizing the importance of protecting people's livelihoods. It highlights that taking essential tools for making a living is unjust and harmful.
What is the significance of a millstone in Deuteronomy 24:6?
A millstone is crucial for grinding grain and making food, representing a person's means of earning a living. The verse underscores the need to respect and protect such vital resources in financial dealings.
What does this verse teach about financial transactions?
This verse teaches that financial transactions should not harm others or strip them of their basic needs. It encourages fairness and compassion, reminding us to consider the impact of our actions on others.
How does Deuteronomy 24:6 relate to justice and compassion?
Deuteronomy 24:6 reflects a commitment to justice and compassion by ensuring that individuals are not deprived of their means to support themselves. It promotes empathy in economic interactions.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.