1 A [good] name [is] rather to be chosen than great riches, [and] loving favour rather than silver and gold.
2 The rich and poor meet together: the LORD [is] the maker of them all.
3 A prudent [man] foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.
4 By humility [and] the fear of the LORD [are] riches, and honour, and life.
5 Thorns [and] snares [are] in the way of the froward: he that doth keep his soul shall be far from them.
6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
7 The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower [is] servant to the lender.
8 He that soweth iniquity shall reap vanity: and the rod of his anger shall fail.
9 He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor.
10 Cast out the scorner, and contention shall go out; yea, strife and reproach shall cease.
11 He that loveth pureness of heart, [for] the grace of his lips the king [shall be] his friend.
12 The eyes of the LORD preserve knowledge, and he overthroweth the words of the transgressor.
13 The slothful [man] saith, [There is] a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets.
14 The mouth of strange women [is] a deep pit: he that is abhorred of the LORD shall fall therein.
15 Foolishness [is] bound in the heart of a child; [but] the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.
16 He that oppresseth the poor to increase his [riches, and] he that giveth to the rich, [shall] surely [come] to want.
17 Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge.
18 For [it is] a pleasant thing if thou keep them within thee; they shall withal be fitted in thy lips.
19 That thy trust may be in the LORD, I have made known to thee this day, even to thee.
20 Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge,
21 That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee?
22 Rob not the poor, because he [is] poor: neither oppress the afflicted in the gate:
23 For the LORD will plead their cause, and spoil the soul of those that spoiled them.
24 Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go:
25 Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.
26 Be not thou [one] of them that strike hands, [or] of them that are sureties for debts.
27 If thou hast nothing to pay, why should he take away thy bed from under thee?
28 Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set.
29 Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean [men].
Overview of Proverbs 22
Proverbs 22 is a chapter rich in wisdom and practical advice, emphasizing the importance of character, relationships, and the consequences of one’s actions. It serves as a guide for living a virtuous life and highlights the value of wisdom and understanding in various aspects of life.
Key Themes
- The Value of a Good Name: The chapter opens by asserting that a good reputation is more valuable than wealth.
- Wisdom and Instruction: The importance of acquiring wisdom and the role of parental guidance are emphasized.
- Generosity and Charity: The text encourages generosity towards the poor and warns against oppression.
- Consequences of Actions: It discusses the inevitable outcomes of foolishness versus wisdom.
Detailed Analysis
1. The Value of a Good Name (Proverbs 22:1)
The chapter begins with a powerful statement: “A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches.” This highlights the idea that one’s reputation and integrity hold far greater significance than material wealth. A good name can lead to respect and trust, which are invaluable in personal and professional relationships.
2. The Importance of Wisdom (Proverbs 22:2-6)
- Wealth and Poverty: Verse 2 states that both the rich and the poor have one thing in common: the Lord is the maker of them all. This serves as a reminder of the inherent value of every individual.
- Parental Guidance: Verse 6 emphasizes the importance of training children in the right way, suggesting that early teachings will guide them throughout life.
- Wisdom as a Shield: The following verses discuss the protective nature of wisdom, suggesting that it can shield individuals from harm and guide them toward a prosperous life.
3. Generosity and Social Responsibility (Proverbs 22:7-9)
These verses contrast the rich and the poor, stating that the borrower is a servant to the lender. It underscores the importance of being generous and warns against exploiting the vulnerable. The blessings of generosity are highlighted, suggesting that those who give to the poor will themselves be rewarded.
4. The Consequences of Foolishness (Proverbs 22:10-14)
- Removing the Scorner: Verse 10 suggests that removing a scorner will lead to peace, indicating that foolishness can disrupt harmony.
- Words of the Wise: The chapter continues with warnings about the dangers of foolish words and actions, suggesting that they can lead to destruction.
- Adultery and Its Consequences: The metaphor of a deep pit is used to describe the dangers of infidelity, emphasizing the serious repercussions of such actions.
5. Practical Advice and Wisdom (Proverbs 22:15-29)
The latter part of the chapter offers practical advice for various aspects of life, including:
- Discipline: Verse 15 notes that folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him.
- Wealth and Generosity: The text encourages lending to the poor and warns against exploiting those in need.
- Business Ethics: The chapter concludes with advice on honesty and integrity in business dealings, reinforcing the importance of ethical behavior.
Conclusion
Proverbs 22 encapsulates a wealth of wisdom regarding character, relationships, and the consequences of one’s actions. It serves as a timeless guide for individuals seeking to lead a life of integrity, wisdom, and social responsibility. The chapter emphasizes that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in a good name and the impact one has on others.
