Sirach (Ecclesiasticus) — Chapter 29

He that sheweth mercy lendeth to his neighbour; and he that is stronger in hand keepeth the commandments. Lending to a neighbor in need is itself an act of mercy and obedience to God. Lapide treats the lending of money as a form of almsgiving when done without interest (usury being condemned) and with genuine charity.

Until he receiveth, he will kiss his hand, and will speak humbly of his neighbour's money; but when he is come to the time of payment, he will ask for time. The ingratitude and evasion of the negligent debtor. Lapide describes the psychological progression: initial flattery, then delays, then accusations against the creditor, then refusal to repay.

Nevertheless have patience with a man in poor estate, and delay not to shew him mercy for alms' sake. Despite the risks of bad debtors, patience and mercy toward the genuinely poor is still commanded. Lapide insists that abuses by some should not extinguish charity toward all.

Lay up alms in the heart of the poor, and it shall obtain help for thee against all evil. Almsgiving stored in the hearts of the grateful poor is a spiritual treasury before God. Lapide calls alms the best possible investment: it earns divine interest infinitely exceeding any earthly return.

A good man is surety for his neighbour; but he that hath lost all shame will leave him in the lurch. The risks of suretyship: Lapide acknowledges the danger but notes that the truly generous man accepts the risk for a good friend or neighbor in genuine need.

The life of him that dependeth on another man's table is not to be counted for a life. The humiliation of dependence on others' hospitality is graphically described. Lapide treats the loss of domestic independence as one of the most painful social experiences, citing multiple examples from history and literature.