Daily Halacha: Expressing Gratitude to a Jewish Lender: Is It Permitted According to Ribis Laws? (Monday, 16th Teves)

Expressing Gratitude to a Jewish Lender: Is It Permitted According to Ribis Laws?

We all know about the prohibition against taking interest on loans between Jews. This is a well-known halacha: when you lend money to a fellow Jew, you are not allowed to ask for or receive more than the original amount lent. However, what many are not aware of is that this prohibition—at least from a rabbinical perspective, and according to some authorities even from a biblical perspective—applies not only to tangible benefits but even against doing favors on behalf of the lender after the loan has been given. Furthermore, it applies even to mere words—meaning that even saying words which benefit the lender, such as expressions of gratitude or praise, may be prohibited. This halacha will explore whether saying “thank you” or other verbal expressions of gratitude to a lender is permitted.

1. Background of Prohibition of Ribis Devarim (Interest Through Words):[1]

While the Torah explicitly prohibits taking monetary interest on a loan, the Talmud[2] teaches that this prohibition extends even to non-monetary forms of interest, such as Ribis Devarim—interest conveyed through words or speech that benefits the lender. Even this is forbidden under Jewish law.

Scriptural source: This prohibition is derived from a verse in Scripture:[3] “Nephesh kol davar asher yishakh”—“Interest of any matter that is lent.” From the word davar (matter), the Sages[4] infer that even dibbur (speech) is included, as the two terms are linguistically related. Thus, verbal expressions that confer benefit upon the lender are considered prohibited interest.

Is This Prohibition Biblical or Rabbinical? Whether this prohibition is biblical—meaning that one transgresses the severe Torah prohibition of interest simply by giving verbal benefit to the lender—is a matter of debate among the authorities: Some Poskim[5] maintain that it constitutes an actual biblical prohibition, since it is derived directly from the verse. Other Poskim[6], however, hold that the prohibition is merely rabbinical, and that the verse serves only as an asmachta—a scriptural support for a rabbinic enactment. The Alter Rebbe appears to adopt the latter view, that the prohibition of Ribis Devarim is rabbinical in nature.[7]

What Is Included in This Definition? Any positive speech that the borrower directs toward the lender because of the loan, or in order to secure an extension on the loan, is prohibited. This includes actions such as greeting the lender with “good morning” or similar pleasantries if the borrower was not accustomed to doing so prior to borrowing the money. It goes without saying that the borrower may not praise the lender in their presence, nor may they thank them or express gratitude for granting the loan. Likewise, the borrower may not offer blessings to the lender for having lent the money or for agreeing to extend the repayment period.

Guidelines for Speech When Requesting or Extending a Loan:[8] Being, as stated above, a person who needs to borrow money, may not praise, flatter, or elevate the potential lender in order to secure the loan, then what words can be said in order to convince the person to lend him the money? Likewise, if the borrower has already taken the loan but now requires an extension, and believes that only by offering compliments and pleasant words will the lender agree—what is permitted? The Alter Rebbe rules that the borrower may speak only with words of supplication—that is, to entreat or implore—but not with words of praise, flattery, or any form of adulation. Expressions that exalt, glorify, or ingratiate oneself with the lender are strictly forbidden. The borrower may humbly request leniency, but may not resort to compliments or embellishments designed to curry favor.

The Timeframe of the Prohibition:[9] The prohibition of Ribis Devarim applies from the moment the borrower requests the loan until the loan has been fully repaid. During this entire period, it is forbidden to offer words of praise, gratitude, or blessing to the lender in connection with the loan. Once the loan has been completely paid back, however, the prohibition no longer applies, and the borrower may freely thank and praise the lender for the favor extended. Additionally, this restriction only begins at the time that one comes to request the loan. However, prior to that point, even if the borrower intends to request a loan at some future time, it is permissible to praise the individual without concern so long as it contains no mention of a loan, even though the praise may influence the forthcoming loan which he plans to later request from him.

1. The Law Regarding Expressing Gratitude: Is Saying “Thank You” Permitted?[10]

With regard to the question of whether simply saying “thank you” to the lender is permissible—a phrase that reflects basic human courtesy toward anyone who has done even a minor favor, and certainly when someone has extended the trust and kindness of lending money—there is a notable debate among the authorities. Some Poskim[11] argue that expressing thanks in this context is merely considered derech eretz (proper etiquette) and is therefore not included in the prohibition of ribbit (interest). According to this view, a simple acknowledgment of gratitude does not constitute a prohibited benefit. However, the Alter Rebbe, in his Shulchan Aruch HaRav[12], rules that even this terminology falls under the category of Ribis Devarim (interest through words). Although this is not explicitly stated in the Talmud, the Alter Rebbe’s reasoning is that such expressions provide the lender with a benefit of praise—affirming that they have done something good—which is included in the broader prohibition against praising the lender because of the loan. Practically, the accepted halachic position follows that of the Alter Rebbe: it is forbidden for a borrower to even say “thank you” to the lender for granting the loan.[13]

Examples of Words of Gratitude Included in the Prohibition: The prohibition of ribbit devarim—interest through words—is not limited to the simple expression of “thank you.” It encompasses any verbal acknowledgment of gratitude offered to the lender because of the loan. This includes phrases such as:

• “Yasher Koach[14]” – a common expression meaning “well done” or “may your strength be firm.”
• “Tizkeh LeMitzvot[15]” – meaning “may you merit to perform more mitzvot,” which conveys a blessing and honor for the lender’s act. [However, some are lenient in this matter.[16]]

Even these seemingly customary or religious expressions are considered prohibited when said in connection with the favor of lending money or granting an extension, as they provide the lender with verbal benefit and praise.

1. Exceptions: Words of Expression That Are Permitted:

While the general rule prohibits verbal expressions of gratitude toward the lender, there are notable exceptions:

1. When the Thanks is on behalf of the time and effort spent by the lender:[17] Some suggest that the entire prohibition only applies when the borrower thanks the lender on behalf of the money lent to him. However, it is permitted for him to think the lender for the time and trouble he went through to facilitate the law, such as to go to the bank to take out the cash and so on and so forth. Practically, one who follows this leniency is to explicitly state to the lender that he is only thanking him for his troubles involved in facilitating the loan as he cannot thank him for the loan itself.
2. When the Money Does Not Belong to the Lender Personally:[18] The prohibition applies only when the funds belong to the actual lender. If the individual merely manages or facilitates the loan on behalf of another party—such as an agent, administrator, or representative—it is permitted to thank them. This is because the prohibition of ribbit exists specifically between the borrower and the true owner of the money, not the intermediary who handles the transaction.
3. Indirect Expression of Gratitude Without Actual Praise:[19] One may say, for example:
   “I would love to thank you, but I cannot because of the laws of ribbit.”
   This phrasing acknowledges the borrower’s desire to express gratitude while simultaneously affirming adherence to halacha. Since it does not confer actual praise or benefit, it is considered permissible.
4. After Full Repayment of the Loan:[20] Once the loan has been completely paid back—but not at the moment of repayment[21]—it is permitted for the borrower to thank the lender for having extended the loan. For example, if the borrower meets the lender a month after repayment, they may say “thank you” without concern, as the prohibition applies only while the loan is outstanding.

Summary:

Jewish law prohibits not only monetary interest on loans between Jews but also ribis devarim—interest through words. This means that any verbal expression that benefits the lender, such as praise, blessings, or even saying “thank you,” is generally forbidden while the loan is outstanding. The prohibition applies from the time the loan is requested until it is fully repaid and includes common phrases like “Yasher Koach” and possibly even “Tizkeh LeMitzvot.” The reasoning is that such words confer honor and benefit, which halacha views as a form of interest.

While some authorities argue that a simple “thank you” is mere etiquette and permitted, the Alter Rebbe rules that even this is prohibited, as it constitutes praise. Practically, the accepted ruling follows this stricter view. However, there are exceptions: one may thank an intermediary who does not own the funds, express gratitude after full repayment (not at the moment of payment), or acknowledge the lender indirectly by saying, “I would love to thank you, but I cannot because of ribis.” These guidelines ensure that lending remains an act of pure kindness, free from any form of benefit beyond the principal loan.

Table of Laws

[1] See Admur Hilchos Ribis Halacha 9 “And even to speak a kind word because of the loan or because of the extension of time is forbidden, such as greeting him first if one was not accustomed to do so previously. Needless to say, it is prohibited to praise him in his presence or to thank him for the favor, or to bless him in his presence for having lent him the money or for granting an extension. For it is written: ‘You shall not take interest of any matter that is lent,’ which teaches that even speech is forbidden. And if one needs to ask him to lend money or to extend the time, he should request only with words of supplication, and not with words of praise, glorification, or flattery, nor with other flattering expressions.”; Michaber Y.D. 160:11-12 and Rama 160:12; Tur 160; Rambam Hilchos Malveh Veloveh 5:12; Braisa Rashbi in Bava Metzia 75b; Tosafus Kedushin 8b; See Bemishnas Harav 9:56-65; Shulchan Aruch Harav Im Tziyunim Veharos footnotes 67-75; Kitzur Dinei Ribius 11-23; Bris Yehuda [Bloy] 11:29 footnotes 63-66; Bris Pinchas 4:1-10

[2] Bava Metzia 75b

[3] Devarim 23:20

[4] Bava Metzia 75b

[5] Rivash 147, as explained in Shaar Deah 161:1; Tosafus Kis=ddushin 8b; Makor Mayim Chaim; Bemishnas Harav 9:63 footnote 152

[6] Ran Kesubos 46a; Mordechai Bava Metzia 327; Sefer Hateruma Shaar 46:3-13; Kiryat Sefer on Rambam; Chochmas Adam 131:11; Bris Yehuda 10:3 that so is implication of majority of Poskim

[7] As he makes no mention of it being Biblical and states that it is not prohibited by Mukdemes and Meucheres, which should apply if it were Biblical, and states the prohibition applies while the money is in his hand, which is only Rabbinical; Bris Yehuda 10 footnote 3; Shulchan Aruch Harav Im Tziyunim Veharos footnote 73

[8] Admur ibid; See Refidaso Zahav 160:12 -6 and 9; Bris Yehuda 11 footnote 65

[9] See Admur in the very beginning of Halacha 9 which discusses Ribis Devarim “throughout the period that the borrower is obligated to pay back the lender” and later on “And even to speak a kind word for the sake of the loan or because of the extension of time is forbidden” which implies that prior to the time of asking of the loan, as well as some time after paying back the loan, then this prohibition of Ribis Devarim no longer applies; Erech Lechem of Maharikash 160:10; Birkeiy Yosef 160; Shiyurei Bracha, in Otzer Mefaershim 17; Marbeh Torah 160:29, brought in Darkei Teshuvah; Bris Yehuda 11 footnote 65 in name of Mordechai; Chelkas Binyamon 160:108; Bemishnas Harav 9:60 footnote 135 and 9:64 footnote 156 and Biurim  “Vekol Zeh”; Shulchan Aruch Harav Im Tziyunim Veharos footnote 69 and 74; Bris Pinchas 4:8-2; See also Tosafus Bava Metzia 73b

Other opinions in Admur: Some Milaktim learn from the wording of Admur “for having lent him the money or for granting an extension” that it is never permitted to explicitly mention that he is thanking or praising him for the loan even much time before or after the loan. [Bris Pinchas 4:8 footnote 10]

[10] See Admur Halacha 9; Bemishnas Harav 9:60

[11] Ohalei Yaakov of Mahariy Kastro 126; Minchas Shlomo 1:27-1 in his initial ruling [unlike 2:69]; Nesivos Shalom 160:11-7 that Rav SZ”A would be Matir like his original Teshuvah; Poskim brought and negated in Bemishnas Harav 9:60 footnote 133; Chelkas Binyamon 108 and Tziyunim 471 and Tiferes Harav 9 footnote 13 that so applies even according to Admur if he says a single Thank You; See Mishpat Haribis 1 footnote 60; Mishnas Ribis 4 footnote 21; So is quoted Lehatir: Rav Moshe Feinstein [a single Thank You, unlike his Teshuvah]; Rav Elyashiv; Torah Temima Ki Seitzei 23; Rav Bentzion Aba Shaul, brought in Ribis Leor Hahalacha 8:7; Chayeh Halevi 5:69-9; Bris Pinchas 4:3 footnote 3 in name of Rav Elyashiv

[12] Admur Halacha 9 “Or to Thank”; See Beis Yosef 160:11 in name of Hagahos Maimanis; Tosafus Kedushin 8b [regarding Issur Levarcho]; Marbeh Torah 160:29; Igros Moshe Y.D. 1:80; Rav SZ”A in his final ruling in Minchas Shlomo 2:69; Bemishnas Harav 9:60 footnote 132; Shulchan Aruch Harav Im Tziyunim Veharos footnote 71-72; Bris Pinchas 4:3 says to avoid saying thanks for the loan but permits saying thanks for the trouble of going about the loan

[13] Minchas Shlomo ibid

[14] Bris Yehuda 11:64; Orchos Rabbeinu 3:94 in name of Chazon Ish; Refidaso Zahav 160:12 -11; Bemishnas Harav 9:61 footnote 138

[15] Minchas Shlomo 1:27; Bemishnas Harav 9:61 footnote 138; See Admur ibid based on Tosafus ibid who prohibits even “Blessing him”; Bris Pinchas 4:3 footnote 3

[16] See Meiri Bava Metzia 75b; Pela Yoeitz Os Daled Erech Dibur; Bris Yehuda 11 footnote 64; Bemishnas Harav 9:61 footnote 140; Kitzur Dinei Ribius 20 footnote 29

[17] Bris Pinchas 4:3

[18] See Admur ibid “it is prohibited to praise him in his presence”; Bemishnas Harav 9:59; Divrei Sofrim 160:191; Nesivos Shalom 160:11 -3; Bris Yehuda 11 footnote 63; Kitzur Dinei Ribius 13 footnote 20

[19] Bemishnas Harav 9:60 footnote 134 in name of Rav Shtern in Vechaiy Achicha Imach 2 footnote 19 and Nesivos Shalom 160:11-8 and Rav Shaul Alter, brought in Akarah D’Desha, vol. 2, p. 211, quoting what he heard from his father, Maran the ‘Pnei Menachem’ ztz”l: I personally witnessed a practical example with my father, ztz”l. Once, when he repaid a loan, he said to the lender: ‘It is forbidden to express thanks, but this is truly a great kindness.’ From this I learned that there is no prohibition in showing the lender that one understands and appreciates the kindness that was done for him; the prohibition is only against explicitly thanking or blessing him. But to demonstrate recognition of the kindness is permitted.”

[20] Marbeh Torah 160:29, brought in Darkei Teshuvah; Bris Yehuda 11 footnote 65; Bemishnas Harav 9:60 footnote 135; See Admur in the very beginning of Halacha 9 which discusses Ribis Devarim “throughout the period that the borrower is obligated to pay back the lender” and later on “And even to speak a kind word for the sake of the loan or because of the extension of time is forbidden” which implies that prior to the time of asking of the loan, as well as some time after paying back the loan, then this prohibition of Ribis Devarim no longer applies; See also Tosafus Bava Metzia 73b; Chelkas Binyamon 160:108; Bemishnas Harav 9:64 footnote 156 and Biurim  “Vekol Zeh”; Bris Pinchas 4:8

Other opinions in Admur: Some Milaktim learn from the wording of Admur “for having lent him the money or for granting an extension” that it is never permitted to explicitly mention that he is thanking or praising him for the loan even much time before or after the loan. [Bris Pinchas 4:8 footnote 10]

[21] See Marbeh Torah ibid; Bemishnas Harav ibid; Bris Yehuda ibid; Bris Pinchas 4:8