Turning a blind eye to the needy is the beginning of oppression

 

Turning a blind eye to the needy is the beginning of oppression.

Oppression does not necessarily entail breaking the law, it can simply be a case of turning a blind eye to those in need. Although the law gives the landlord the right to increase rent, or the lender to exact interest, what is lawful in the eyes of the world may be grave injustice in the eyes of God. The prophet Amos warns the people,

Therefore because you impose heavy rent on the poor
And exact a tribute of grain from them,
Though you have built houses of well-hewn stone,
Yet you will not live in them;
You have planted pleasant vineyards, yet you will not drink their wine.
For I know your transgressions are many and your sins are great,
You who distress the righteous and accept bribes
And turn aside the poor in the gate. Amos 5:11-12