Negative Mitzvah 241
It is forbidden to take a security from a widow
Deuteronomy 24:17 "Nor shall you take a widow's garment as security"
We must be very careful when dealing with a widow.
She is alone and we must consider the difficulties that she faces.
The Torah forbids us to demand any security from her for a loan she has taken. Rather, we should be kind and trust that HaShem will help her repay.
This Negative Mitzvah applies regardless of whether a widow is poor or wealthy.
Negative Mitzvah 242
It is forbidden to take utensils used for the preparation of food as security
Deuteronomy 24:6 "No man shall take the upper or lower millstone for a pledge, for he take a man's life as a pledge"
Even though the Torah allows us to take items from the borrower as security for a loan, this does not include all items.
It is not permitted to demand utensils or dishes that are used for preparing food as security. A borrower must not go hungry just because he owes someone money!