A new threat of internal strife arose along the exiles in Jerusalem. There was a famine and food was scarce and expensive. The poor exiles had to borrow money from the wealthy exiles to buy grain to survive. Homes and land were mortgaged and lost. Even children were being sold into slavery to rich Jews to settle debts. When Nehemiah heard the outcry of the poor, he was very angry. He assembled all the people together and accused the rich Jews of charging interest on loans to fellow Jews-violation of Mosaic law. He also charged them with selling their brothers to Gentiles. They repented and promised to return what was taken from the poor Jews and not demand anymore from them. It was sealed with a covenant.