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.
The book of Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings and teachings that are meant to guide and instruct people in living a righteous and prosperous life. Chapter 22 of the book of Proverbs continues this theme, providing practical advice and wisdom on various topics such as relationships, work, wealth, and character. This chapter is divided into two main sections: verses 1-16 which focus on the importance of a good reputation, and verses 17-29 which emphasize the value of wisdom and instruction.
The first section of this chapter begins with a reminder of the importance of a good reputation. Verse 1 states, "A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold." This verse highlights the idea that having a good name and reputation is more valuable than material wealth. This is a common theme throughout the book of Proverbs, as it emphasizes the importance of character and integrity over worldly possessions.
Verse 2 continues this theme by stating, "The rich and poor meet together: the Lord is the maker of them all." This verse reminds us that regardless of our social status or wealth, we are all equal in the eyes of God. It also serves as a warning against treating people differently based on their financial status.
As the chapter continues, it provides practical advice on how to maintain a good reputation. Verses 3-5 warn against the consequences of foolishness, dishonesty, and pride. These verses emphasize the importance of humility, honesty, and wisdom in maintaining a good reputation and avoiding destruction.
Verse 6 shifts the focus to parenting, stating, "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." This verse highlights the responsibility of parents to teach their children wisdom and moral values. It also serves as a reminder that our actions and teachings have a lasting impact on our children.
Verses 7-9 warn against oppressing the poor and taking advantage of the vulnerable. These verses emphasize the importance of treating others with fairness and compassion, regardless of their social status. They also remind us that our actions towards others will be repaid by God.
The section ends with verses 10-16 which describe the consequences of laziness and dishonesty. These verses emphasize the importance of hard work, honesty, and diligence in achieving success and maintaining a good reputation.
The second section of this chapter begins with an exhortation to listen to the words of the wise. Verse 17 states, "Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge." This verse highlights the importance of seeking wisdom and instruction from those who are wise and knowledgeable. It also emphasizes the need to pay attention and apply this knowledge to our lives.
Verse 18 continues this theme by stating, "For it is a pleasant thing if thou keep them within thee; they shall withal be fitted in thy lips." This verse emphasizes the value of wisdom and knowledge in our lives, as it brings joy and enables us to speak wisely and effectively.
Verses 19-21 encourage us to trust in God and His wisdom, rather than relying on our own understanding. These verses remind us that God's wisdom is far superior to our own and that we should seek it above all else.
The remainder of this section focuses on various topics such as honesty, the consequences of sin, and the importance of being a good neighbor. Verses 22-23 warn against oppressing the poor and taking advantage of others, stating that God will defend the defenseless and punish the oppressor.
Verses 24-25 caution against associating with hot-tempered and angry people, as it can lead to negative consequences. These verses also emphasize the importance of controlling our own emotions and not being easily influenced by the emotions of others.
Verse 26 warns against making rash promises or becoming surety for others, as it can lead to financial ruin. This verse emphasizes the importance of being responsible and cautious in our financial dealings.
Verses 27-28 continue this theme by cautioning against moving boundary markers and taking advantage of others. These verses highlight the importance of integrity and honesty in all our dealings, especially when it comes to property and possessions.
The chapter ends with verse 29, which states, "Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men." This verse emphasizes the value of hard work and diligence, as it can lead to success and favor with those in authority.
The main themes of Proverbs Chapter 22 revolve around the importance of a good reputation and the value of wisdom and instruction. This chapter serves as a reminder that our actions and character have a lasting impact on our reputation and success in life. It also emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and guidance from God and those who are wise and knowledgeable.
Additionally, this chapter highlights the need for integrity, honesty, and diligence in all aspects of our lives. It reminds us that our actions towards others, especially the vulnerable and less fortunate, will be repaid by God. It also cautions against pride, laziness, and hot-temperedness, which can lead to destruction and negative consequences.
The overall message of Proverbs Chapter 22 is the importance of living a righteous and wise life, guided by God's wisdom and instruction. By following these principles, we can maintain a good reputation, achieve success, and receive favor from God and those in authority.
Ultimately, the book of Proverbs serves as a guidebook for living a fulfilling and prosperous life, based on the principles of wisdom, integrity, and faith in God. Chapter 22 is a continuation of this theme, providing practical advice and wisdom that is applicable to our daily lives. It reminds us that our character and actions are of utmost importance and should be guided by God's wisdom and instruction.
Share this page