Proverbs Chapter 22 — A Good Name and Practical Wisdom
Proverbs 22 highlights the value of a good reputation, the importance of early childhood training, and the necessity of kindness toward the poor.
1A good name is more desirable than great riches,
2The rich and the poor have this in common:
3A prudent man sees danger and hides himself;
4The result of humility and the fear of the LORD
5Thorns and snares are in the path of the wicked;
6Train up a child in the way he should go,
7The rich rule over the poor.
8He who sows wickedness reaps trouble,
9He who has a generous eye will be blessed,
10Drive out the mocker, and strife will go out;
11He who loves purity of heart and speaks gracefully
12The LORD’s eyes watch over knowledge,
13The sluggard says, “There is a lion outside!
14The mouth of an adulteress is a deep pit.
15Folly is bound up in the heart of a child;
16Whoever oppresses the poor for his own increase and whoever gives to the rich,
17Turn your ear, and listen to the words of the wise.
18For it is a pleasant thing if you keep them within you,
19I teach you today, even you,
20Haven’t I written to you thirty excellent things
21To teach you truth, reliable words,
22Don’t exploit the poor because he is poor;
23for the LORD will plead their case,
24Don’t befriend a hot-tempered man.
25lest you learn his ways
26Don’t you be one of those who strike hands,
27If you don’t have means to pay,
28Don’t move the ancient boundary stone
29Do you see a man skilled in his work?
WEB Translation
Notable Verses
Proverbs 22:1
“A good name is more desirable than great riches,”
This verse prioritizes moral reputation and personal character over material wealth.
Proverbs 22:6
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”
It is a foundational principle regarding the lifelong impact of early moral and spiritual instruction.
Proverbs 22:22
“Don’t exploit the poor because he is poor; for the LORD will plead their case,”
This verse warns against taking advantage of the vulnerable and highlights God's role as their defender.
Chapter Summary
Proverbs 22 begins with a series of individual proverbs emphasizing character over wealth, noting that a good name and a prudent spirit are far more valuable than riches. The text highlights the commonality between the rich and the poor, as the LORD made them both, and warns against the consequences of wickedness while praising generosity. One of the most famous verses in this chapter discusses training children in the right path so they do not depart from it in old age. Midway through the chapter, the tone shifts from short, two-line proverbs to a collection of thirty excellent things or sayings of the wise. This section encourages the reader to trust in the LORD and provides specific warnings against exploiting the poor, befriending hot-tempered individuals, or moving ancient boundary stones. The chapter concludes by praising the skill and diligence of a man in his work.
Frequently Asked Questions
This verse suggests that providing a child with moral and spiritual guidance from an early age sets a foundation for their entire life. While it is often viewed as a general principle of parenting, it emphasizes the long-term influence of early instruction.
The chapter opens by stating that a good reputation is more valuable than great riches. It teaches that being respected for one's character and integrity provides a more lasting benefit than silver or gold.
This verse introduces a specific section of wisdom literature within the book of Proverbs. These sayings of the wise provide practical instructions on social justice, self-control, and the importance of reliability in speech.
Study Note
Starting in verse 17, the structure shifts from individual couplets to longer units of thought, marking the beginning of the 'Words of the Wise.'
Related Chapters
Proverbs 23
Proverbs 23 continues the thirty sayings of the wise introduced in chapter 22.
Matthew 19
Jesus discusses the relationship between the rich and the poor, echoing themes found in Proverbs 22.
Ephesians 6
This New Testament chapter expands on the instruction of children mentioned in Proverbs 22:6.
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