Ribbis: Matters of Interest

GIFTS OF GRATITUDE

May one give a gift to someone who lent him their home or car for
the weekend ?

May a borrower give a Bar mitzvah present to the son of the lender?

Case
#1: Since ribbis does not apply to items which are not consumed, it would be
permitted to purchase a gift for the owner of the home or car.

If
the owner asked that utility use be repaid, it nonetheless would be permitted
to purchase a gift, as it is obvious that it is being done out of gratitude and
not as a repayment for the use of the utilities. According to some opinions the
borrower should specify (or include a note) that the gift is out of gratitude
for the use of the house. See also “Filling Up the Gas Tank.”

Case
#2: One may benefit the child of a lender if no monetary benefit will be gained
by the parent. Therefore he may purchase the gift if the child is over bar/bas
mitzvah, and the item is something the parent would not have wanted to buy him.
It should also be something that does not benefit the entire family directly.
Therefore, a book or toy is permitted (although others may use it, since that
is not the direct intention).