◄ Proverbs 22 ►
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A Good Name 1A good name is more desirable than great riches; favor is better than silver and gold. 2The rich and the poor have this in common: The LORD is Maker of them all. 3The prudent see danger and take cover, but the simple keep going and suffer the consequences. 4The rewards of humility and the fear of the LORD are wealth and honor and life. 5Thorns and snares lie on the path of the perverse; he who guards his soul stays far from them. 6Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. 7The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender. 8He who sows injustice will reap disaster, and the rod of his fury will be destroyed.a 9A generous manb will be blessed, for he shares his bread with the poor. 10Drive out the mocker, and conflict will depart; even quarreling and insults will cease. 11He who loves a pure heart and gracious lips will have the king for a friend. 12The LORD’s eyes keep watch over knowledge, but He frustrates the words of the faithless. 13The slacker says, “There is a lion outside! I will be slain in the streets!” 14The mouth of an adulteress is a deep pit; he who is under the wrath of the LORD will fall into it. 15Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline drives it far from him. 16Oppressing the poor to enrich oneself or giving gifts to the rich will surely lead to poverty. Thirty Sayings of the Wise Saying 1 17Incline your ear and hear the words of the wise— apply your mind to my knowledge— 18for it is pleasing when you keep them within you and they are constantly on your lips. 19So that your trust may be in the LORD, I instruct you today—yes, you. 20Have I not written for you thirty sayingsc about counsel and knowledge, 21to show you true and reliable words, that you may soundly answer those who sent you? Saying 2 22Do not rob a poor man because he is poor, and do not crush the afflicted at the gate, 23for the LORD will take up their case and will plunder those who rob them. Saying 3 24Do not make friends with an angry man, and do not associate with a hot-tempered man, 25or you may learn his ways and entangle yourself in a snare. Saying 4 26Do not be one who gives pledges, who puts up security for debts. 27If you have nothing with which to pay, why should your bed be taken from under you? Saying 5 28Do not move an ancient boundary stone which your fathers have placed. Saying 6 29Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will be stationed in the presence of kings; he will not stand before obscure men. Footnotes: 8 a LXX includes God blesses a cheerful and generous man, but foolish works will come to an end; see also 2 Corinthians 9:7. 9 b Literally He whose eye is good 20 c Or written for you excellent sayings or written for you three times Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Proverbs 22 Summary Thirty Sayings of the Wise Verses 1–4 – Reputation, Humility, and Reward A respected name and God-given favor are worth more than piles of gold. Whether rich or poor, everyone answers to the same Creator. Wise people see trouble coming and step aside; fools charge ahead and get hurt. True prosperity—“wealth and honor and life”—flows from humble reverence for the LORD. Verses 5–6 – Guarded Paths and Guided Children Crooked living is lined with thorns and traps, but the one who watches his soul keeps clear. Parents are urged to “Train up a child in the way he should go,” trusting that early formation will anchor future faithfulness. Verses 7–9 – Money, Power, and Generosity Debt brings bondage, injustice brings judgment, but a generous heart brings blessing. “The borrower is slave to the lender,” yet “A generous man will be blessed, for he shares his bread with the poor.” Verses 10–12 – Words and Influence Throw out the mocker and the room quiets down. Gracious speech wins powerful friends, and the LORD Himself protects what is true while overturning deceit. Verses 13–16 – Lazy Excuses, Sexual Traps, and Social Oppression The sluggard invents wild dangers to dodge work. Immorality is a “deep pit,” and oppression of the poor or bribery of the rich boomerangs into poverty. Verses 17–21 – Thirty Wise Sayings Introduced The teacher invites listeners to lean in, memorize, and speak these proverbs so that their “trust may be in the LORD.” He promises reliable words that equip believers to give sound answers. Verses 22–29 – Justice, Temper, Debt, Boundaries, and Skill God defends the needy and plunders oppressors. Hot-tempered companions teach bad habits; co-signing debts risks everything. Ancient boundary stones must stay put, and excellence in work opens doors to kings rather than obscurity. Proverbs 22 is a collection of wisdom-filled sayings and teachings that provide guidance on a variety of aspects of life. It explores the enduring value of a good name, the importance of integrity, and the consequences of wisdom and folly. In its wisdom literature style, it gives meaningful insights on wealth, poverty, and the value of righteous living. Authorship and Setting Proverbs 22 belongs to the “Sayings of Solomon” collection (10:1–22:16) and the “Thirty Sayings of the Wise” (22:17–24:22). Solomon reigned about 970–931 BC, presiding over Israel’s golden age. Archaeological digs at Megiddo, Hazor, and Gezer confirm the wealth and building projects described in 1 Kings 9:15–19, matching the social layers addressed here—royal courts, laborers, merchants, and farmers. Literary Flow • 1–16 finishes the long chain of Solomon’s couplets. • 17–21 is a prose invitation to a new section. • 22–29 launches those “thirty sayings,” each typically two verses long, dealing with community justice and personal integrity. Key Themes with Scripture Links 1. Good Name over Riches • Proverbs 3:3–4; Ecclesiastes 7:1; 1 Timothy 3:7 2. God the Maker of All • Job 31:13–15; Malachi 2:10; Acts 17:26 3. Parental Training • Deuteronomy 6:6–7; Ephesians 6:4; 2 Timothy 3:15 4. Debt and Bondage • Deuteronomy 15:6; Nehemiah 5:1–13; Romans 13:8 5. Social Justice • Exodus 23:6–9; Isaiah 1:17; James 5:4 6. Work Excellence • Genesis 41:37–44; Daniel 6:3; Colossians 3:23 Cultural and Archaeological Insights • Boundary Stones (v. 28): Limestone markers etched with curses have been unearthed across ancient Israel. Moving them meant stealing acreage, a crime still pursued in modern land deeds. • Rod of Discipline (v. 15): Excavations reveal reed canes used in Egyptian classrooms; controlled corporal correction was a common educational tool, not uncontrolled violence. • Lending Practices (v. 7, 26-27): Clay tablets from Mesopotamia record interest rates up to 20 %. Collateral often included household goods—exactly what Proverbs warns could be “snatched from under you.” Practical Wisdom • Guard Your Name: One scandal can undo years of integrity; live consistently at work, online, and at home. • Teach Early: Habits set in childhood—financial, spiritual, relational—tend to calcify with age. • Avoid Needless Debt: Budget before you borrow; freedom is worth the delayed purchase. • Choose Friends Wisely: Temper and mockery spread like a cold; distance limits exposure. • Honor Property Lines: Respecting what belongs to others—time, ideas, possessions—invites God’s favor. Verse-by-Verse Highlights v 2 – “ The LORD is Maker of them all.” Social class never trumps divine image. v 4 – “Wealth and honor and life.” The trio echoes 1 Samuel 2:30 where God promises honor to those who honor Him. v 6 – “he will not depart.” Hebrew phrase pictures a well-trodden path; early grooves guide later wheels. v 9 – “Generous” literally “good of eye,” contrasting the “evil eye” of stinginess (28:22). v 12 – “Preserve knowledge.” God actively guards truth, a preview of Jude 1:24’s promise that He keeps believers from stumbling. v 13 – “Lion outside!” Satirical hyperbole uncovers laziness. v 14 – “Cursed by the LORD.” Divine judgment is portrayed as allowing a person’s own lust to entrap him (see Romans 1:24). v 20 – “Thirty sayings.” Some link to Egyptian Instruction of Amenemope, showing how God’s truth can be reframed for His people. v 28 – “Ancient boundary stone.” Maintaining landmarks also guards family inheritance promised in Numbers 34. Connections to the New Testament • Humility and Exaltation (v 4) → Luke 14:11; James 4:10 • Generosity (v 9) → 2 Corinthians 9:6–8 • Pure Speech and Kings (v 11) → Colossians 4:6; Matthew 10:18 • Work Skillfully (v 29) → 1 Thessalonians 4:11–12; 2 Timothy 2:15 Takeaway Proverbs 22 gathers everyday choices—money, speech, discipline, friendship—and places them under the bright light of God’s rule. The chapter’s simple observations function like road signs: ignore them and risk a ditch, heed them and arrive safely, possibly even before kings. Connections to Additional Scriptures Reputation and Integrity Ecclesiastes 7:1, 1 Peter 2:12 Equality Before God Galatians 3:28, James 2:1-9 Training Children Deuteronomy 6:6-7, Ephesians 6:4 Diligence vs. Laziness Proverbs 6:6-11, Colossians 3:23 Humility and Fear of the Lord James 4:10, Proverbs 9:10 Generosity and Justice 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, Micah 6:8 Teaching Points The Value of a Good Name Proverbs 22:1 emphasizes the importance of a good reputation over material wealth. A good name reflects one's character and integrity. The Rich and the Poor Verse 2 reminds us that The rich and the poor have this in common: The LORD is the Maker of them all. This teaches us about the equality of all people before God. Training Up a Child Proverbs 22:6 states, Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. This underscores the importance of instilling godly values in children from a young age. The Consequences of Laziness Verse 13 warns against laziness, illustrating how excuses can prevent us from fulfilling our responsibilities. The Importance of Humility and the Fear of the Lord Proverbs 22:4 highlights that The reward of humility and the fear of the LORD is riches and honor and life. Generosity and Justice Verses 9 and 16 speak to the blessings of generosity and the importance of justice, reminding us that God honors those who care for the needy. Practical Applications Cultivate Integrity Strive to build a reputation that reflects Christ-like character in all areas of life. Value Equality Treat everyone with respect and dignity, recognizing that all are created by God. Invest in the Next Generation Be intentional in teaching and modeling biblical principles to children and young people. Avoid Procrastination Identify areas where excuses have hindered progress and take steps to overcome them. Practice Humility Seek to live humbly, acknowledging God's sovereignty and seeking His wisdom in all decisions. Be Generous Look for opportunities to give to those in need, trusting that God will provide for your needs as you bless others. People 1. The Prudent Described as someone who foresees danger and takes precautions. This person is wise and discerning, avoiding potential harm by being cautious. The Hebrew root for "prudent" is "עָרוּם" (arum), which implies shrewdness or craftiness in a positive sense. 2. The Simple This person is characterized by a lack of foresight and understanding, often walking into trouble due to naivety. The Hebrew word "פֶּתִי" (pethi) suggests simplicity or gullibility. 3. The Rich Mentioned in the context of having power over the poor, highlighting social and economic dynamics. The Hebrew word "עָשִׁיר" (ashir) refers to someone wealthy or affluent. 4. The Poor Described as being under the authority of the rich, illustrating the disparity between social classes. The Hebrew term "רָשׁ" (rash) denotes poverty or neediness. 5. The Generous This person is noted for sharing their resources with the poor, and is blessed for their kindness. The Hebrew root "בָּרַךְ" (barak) is associated with blessing and prosperity. 6. The Oppressor Someone who exploits or mistreats the poor, often leading to divine retribution. The Hebrew word "עָשַׁק" (ashaq) means to oppress or exploit. 7. The Mocking Scoffer A person who ridicules or scorns others, often causing strife and conflict. The Hebrew term "לֵץ" (lets) refers to a scoffer or mocker. 8. The Father Mentioned in the context of disciplining a child, emphasizing the importance of guidance and correction. The Hebrew word "אָב" (av) is the term for father. 9. The Child Highlighted in the context of being trained and disciplined, with the implication of future wisdom and righteousness. The Hebrew word "נַעַר" (na'ar) refers to a young person or child. 10. The Sluggard Described as lazy and making excuses to avoid work, leading to poverty. The Hebrew root "עָצֵל" (atsel) means lazy or slothful. 11. The Lender This person is involved in financial transactions, often with the expectation of repayment with interest. The Hebrew word "לָוָה" (lavah) means to lend or borrow. 12. The Borrower Depicted as being servant to the lender, illustrating the burden of debt. The Hebrew term "לָוֶה" (laveh) refers to someone who borrows. Places 1. The Place of Honor Proverbs 22:1 emphasizes the value of a good name over riches: "A good name is more desirable than great riches; favor is better than silver and gold." In Hebrew, the word for "name" (שֵׁם, shem) signifies reputation or character, suggesting that one's standing or "place" in society is of utmost importance. 2. The Place of Humility Proverbs 22:4 states, "The rewards of humility and the fear of the LORD are wealth and honor and life." The Hebrew word for humility (עֲנָוָה, anavah) implies a lowly position or attitude, which is paradoxically exalted in God's eyes. 3. The Place of Learning Proverbs 22:6 advises, "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 formative "place" of childhood and the importance of education and moral instruction. 4. The Place of Justice Proverbs 22:8 warns, "He who sows injustice will reap disaster, and the rod of his fury will be destroyed." The Hebrew word for injustice (עַוְלָה, avlah) refers to wrongdoing or unrighteousness, indicating a moral "place" that leads to negative consequences. 5. The Place of Generosity Proverbs 22:9 says, "A generous man will be blessed, for he shares his bread with the poor." The Hebrew root for generous (טוֹב, tov) means good or beneficial, suggesting a "place" of benevolence and kindness. 6. The Place of Wisdom Proverbs 22:17-18 encourages, "Incline your ear and hear the words of the wise; apply your heart to my knowledge, for it is pleasing when you keep them within you and they are constantly on your lips." This passage underscores the "place" of wisdom in one's heart and mind. Events 1. Value of a Good Name "A good name is more desirable than great riches; favor is better than silver and gold." (Proverbs 22:1) This verse emphasizes the importance of reputation and character over material wealth. The Hebrew word for "name" (שֵׁם, shem) signifies one's reputation or fame. 2. Commonality of Rich and Poor "The rich and the poor have this in common: The LORD is the Maker of them all." (Proverbs 22:2) This teaching highlights the equality of all people before God, regardless of their economic status. The Hebrew word for "Maker" (עֹשֵׂה, oseh) underscores God's role as the creator of all. 3. Prudence and Danger "The prudent see danger and take cover, but the simple keep going and suffer the consequences." (Proverbs 22:3) This proverb advises foresight and caution. The Hebrew word for "prudent" (עָרוּם, arum) refers to someone who is shrewd or sensible. 4. Reward of Humility and Fear of the LORD "The reward of humility and the fear of the LORD is riches and honor and life." (Proverbs 22:4) This verse links humility and reverence for God with blessings. The Hebrew word for "fear" (יִרְאַת, yirat) implies awe and respect. 5. Thorns and Snares "Thorns and snares lie on the path of the perverse; he who guards his soul stays far from them." (Proverbs 22:5) This teaching warns against the dangers that accompany a wayward life. The Hebrew word for "perverse" (עִקֵּשׁ, iqqesh) means twisted or crooked. 6. Training a Child "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." (Proverbs 22:6) This well-known proverb emphasizes the importance of early education and moral guidance. The Hebrew word for "train" (חֲנֹךְ, chanokh) suggests dedication or initiation. 7. The Borrower and the Lender "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender." (Proverbs 22:7) This verse highlights the power dynamics in financial relationships. The Hebrew word for "slave" (עֶבֶד, eved) indicates servitude or bondage. 8. Sowing Injustice "He who sows injustice will reap disaster, and the rod of his fury will be destroyed." (Proverbs 22:8) This teaching warns of the consequences of unjust actions. The Hebrew word for "injustice" (עַוְלָה, avlah) refers to wrongdoing or unrighteousness. 9. Generosity and Blessing "A generous man will be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor." (Proverbs 22:9) This proverb encourages generosity and promises blessings for those who help the needy. The Hebrew word for "generous" (טוֹב־עַיִן, tov-ayin) literally means "good eye," implying a benevolent outlook. 10. Driving Out the Mocking "Drive out the mocker, and conflict will depart; even quarreling and insults will cease." (Proverbs 22:10) This teaching suggests that removing disruptive influences can restore peace. The Hebrew word for "mocker" (לֵץ, letz) denotes a scorner or scoffer. 11. Purity of Heart and Speech "He who loves purity of heart and gracious speech will have the king as his friend." (Proverbs 22:11) This verse links inner purity and eloquence with favor from those in authority. The Hebrew word for "purity" (טָהֳרָה, tahorah) signifies cleanliness or moral integrity. 12. The LORD's Watchful Eye "The eyes of the LORD keep watch over knowledge, but He frustrates the words of the faithless." (Proverbs 22:12) This teaching emphasizes God's protection over truth and His opposition to deceit. The Hebrew word for "knowledge" (דַּעַת, da'at) refers to understanding or insight. 13. The Sluggard's Excuses "The sluggard says, 'There is a lion outside! I will be slain in the streets!'" (Proverbs 22:13) This proverb illustrates the irrational excuses of a lazy person. The Hebrew word for "sluggard" (עָצֵל, atsel) means lazy or idle. 14. Adulterous Woman's Seduction "The mouth of an adulteress is a deep pit; he who is cursed by the LORD will fall into it." (Proverbs 22:14) This warning highlights the dangers of succumbing to temptation. The Hebrew word for "adulteress" (זָרָה, zarah) refers to a foreign or strange woman. 15. Folly Bound in a Child's Heart "Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him." (Proverbs 22:15) This teaching underscores the need for discipline in correcting childish folly. The Hebrew word for "foolishness" (אִוֶּלֶת, ivvelet) denotes folly or silliness. 16. Oppression and Generosity "He who oppresses the poor to enrich himself and he who gives gifts to the rich will both come to poverty." (Proverbs 22:16) This verse warns against exploiting the poor and currying favor with the wealthy. The Hebrew word for "oppresses" (עֹשֵׁק, osheq) means to exploit or defraud. Lessons from Proverbs 22 1. A Good Name is Priceless Proverbs 22:1 reminds us, "A good name is more desirable than great riches; favor is better than silver and gold." In a world that often values wealth and status, this verse highlights the eternal value of integrity and reputation. Cultivating a good name through honesty and kindness not only honors God but also opens doors to meaningful relationships and opportunities. Remember, your character is your legacy. 2. The Rich and Poor Meet Together Verse 2 states, "The rich and poor have this in common: The LORD is the Maker of them all." This truth levels the playing field, reminding us that regardless of our earthly status, we are all created by the same God. This perspective encourages humility and compassion, urging us to treat everyone with respect and love, as we are all equal in the eyes of our Creator. 3. Prudence Protects "The prudent see danger and take cover, but the simple keep going and suffer the consequences" (Proverbs 22:3). This verse teaches the importance of foresight and wisdom in decision-making. By being aware of potential pitfalls and taking proactive steps, we can avoid unnecessary hardships. Prudence is a gift that helps us navigate life’s challenges with grace and wisdom. 4. Humility and the Fear of the LORD Verse 4 offers a profound promise: "The rewards of humility and the fear of the LORD are wealth and honor and life." True humility is recognizing our dependence on God and revering Him above all. This attitude not only enriches our spiritual lives but also brings tangible blessings. Embrace humility and reverence, and watch how God transforms your life. 5. Train Up a Child Proverbs 22:6 advises, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." This timeless principle underscores the importance of instilling godly values in the next generation. By teaching children about God’s love and truth, we lay a foundation that will guide them throughout their lives. Invest in the spiritual growth of the young, and you invest in the future. 6. The Borrower is Slave to the Lender Verse 7 warns, "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender." This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of debt. Financial freedom allows us to serve God and others without constraint. By living within our means and avoiding unnecessary debt, we can experience the peace and freedom that God desires for us. 7. Sow Righteousness, Reap Love "He who sows injustice will reap disaster, and the rod of his fury will be destroyed" (Proverbs 22:8). This verse highlights the principle of sowing and reaping. When we choose to act justly and love mercy, we cultivate a life filled with God’s blessings. Let righteousness be the seed you plant, and watch as love and peace flourish in your life. 8. Generosity Brings Blessing Verse 9 declares, "A generous man will be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor." Generosity is a reflection of God’s heart, and when we give freely, we align ourselves with His purposes. By sharing our resources, we not only bless others but also invite God’s favor into our lives. Practice generosity, and experience the joy of being a conduit of God’s love. 9. Drive Out the Mockers "Drive out the mocker, and conflict will depart; even quarreling and insults will cease" (Proverbs 22:10). This verse encourages us to distance ourselves from negativity and those who sow discord. By surrounding ourselves with uplifting and encouraging influences, we create an environment where peace and harmony can thrive. Choose your companions wisely, and cultivate a community of love and support. 10. The LORD Upholds the Truthful Verse 12 assures us, "The eyes of the LORD keep watch over knowledge, but He frustrates the words of the faithless." God values truth and integrity, and He actively supports those who uphold these virtues. By committing to honesty and transparency, we align ourselves with God’s will and invite His protection and guidance. Stand firm in truth, and trust that God will uphold you. Topics 1. The Value of a Good Name (Proverbs 22:1) "A good name is more desirable than great riches; favor is better than silver and gold." This verse emphasizes the importance of maintaining a good reputation and character, which is more valuable than material wealth. The Hebrew word for "name" (שֵׁם, shem) implies one's character and standing in the community. 2. Rich and Poor (Proverbs 22:2) "The rich and the poor have this in common: The LORD is the Maker of them all." This highlights the equality of all people before God, regardless of their economic status. The Hebrew word for "Maker" (עֹשֶׂה, oseh) underscores God's role as the Creator of all. 3. Prudence and Danger (Proverbs 22:3) "The prudent see danger and take cover, but the simple keep going and suffer the consequences." This verse advises foresight and caution, contrasting the wise (prudent) with the naive (simple). 4. Humility and Fear of the LORD (Proverbs 22:4) "The rewards of humility and the fear of the LORD are wealth and honor and life." Humility and reverence for God lead to blessings. The Hebrew word for "fear" (יִרְאָה, yirah) conveys a deep respect and awe for God. 5. The Way of the Perverse (Proverbs 22:5) "Thorns and snares lie on the path of the perverse; he who guards his soul stays far from them." This warns against a life of wickedness, which leads to trouble and danger. 6. Training a Child (Proverbs 22:6) "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." This emphasizes the importance of early education and moral guidance. The Hebrew word for "train" (חָנַךְ, chanak) suggests dedication and initiation. 7. The Borrower and the Lender (Proverbs 22:7) "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender." This highlights the power dynamics in financial relationships and the potential bondage of debt. 8. Sowing Injustice (Proverbs 22:8) "He who sows injustice will reap disaster, and the rod of his fury will be destroyed." This verse warns that those who act unjustly will face consequences. 9. Generosity (Proverbs 22:9) "A generous man will be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor." Generosity is commended, with blessings promised to those who help the needy. 10. Driving Out the Mockers (Proverbs 22:10) "Drive out the mocker, and conflict will depart; even quarreling and insults will cease." Removing disruptive influences leads to peace. 11. Purity of Heart and Speech (Proverbs 22:11) "He who loves a pure heart and gracious lips will have the king for a friend." Integrity and kind speech earn favor and influence. 12. The LORD's Protection (Proverbs 22:12) "The eyes of the LORD keep watch over knowledge, but He frustrates the words of the faithless." God protects truth and thwarts deceit. 13. The Sluggard (Proverbs 22:13) "The sluggard says, 'There is a lion outside! I will be slain in the streets!'" Laziness is often accompanied by irrational excuses. 14. Adulterous Woman (Proverbs 22:14) "The mouth of an adulteress is a deep pit; he who is cursed by the LORD will fall into it." This warns against the dangers of infidelity. 15. Folly Bound in a Child's Heart (Proverbs 22:15) "Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him." Discipline is necessary to correct inherent foolishness in children. 16. Oppressing the Poor (Proverbs 22:16) "He who oppresses the poor to enrich himself and he who gives gifts to the rich will both come to poverty." Exploiting the poor and currying favor with the wealthy lead to ruin. Themes 1. The Value of a Good Name Proverbs 22:1 emphasizes the importance of a good reputation: "A good name is more desirable than great riches; favor is better than silver and gold." The Hebrew word for "name" (שֵׁם, shem) implies one's character and reputation, highlighting the lasting value of integrity over material wealth. 2. The Rich and the Poor Verse 2 states, "The rich and the poor have this in common: The LORD is the Maker of them all." This theme underscores the equality of all people before God, regardless of their economic status, reminding believers of the divine creation and inherent worth of every individual. 3. Prudence and Forethought Proverbs 22:3 teaches, "The prudent see danger and take cover, but the simple keep going and suffer the consequences." The Hebrew root for "prudent" (עָרוּם, arum) suggests shrewdness and wisdom, encouraging believers to be discerning and cautious in their actions. 4. Humility and the Fear of the LORD Verse 4 highlights, "The rewards of humility and the fear of the LORD are wealth and honor and life." This theme connects humility with reverence for God, suggesting that true prosperity comes from a life lived in awe and respect of the divine. 5. The Consequences of Wickedness Proverbs 22:5 warns, "Thorns and snares lie on the path of the perverse; he who guards his soul stays far from them." The Hebrew word for "perverse" (עִקֵּשׁ, iqqesh) refers to those who are morally twisted, emphasizing the dangers and pitfalls that accompany a life of wickedness. 6. Training and Instruction of Children Verse 6 advises, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." The Hebrew verb for "train" (חָנַךְ, chanak) implies dedication and initiation, stressing the importance of guiding children in righteous paths from an early age. 7. The Borrower and the Lender Proverbs 22:7 states, "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender." This theme highlights the power dynamics in financial relationships, warning against the bondage that debt can create. 8. Generosity and Blessing Verse 9 declares, "A generous man will be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor." The Hebrew root for "generous" (טוֹב, tov) conveys goodness and kindness, encouraging believers to be open-handed and compassionate, promising divine blessing in return. 9. The Importance of Purity and Speech Proverbs 22:11 notes, "He who loves a pure heart and gracious lips will have the king for a friend." This theme emphasizes the value of inner purity and the power of kind words, suggesting that such qualities can lead to favor and influence. 10. The Role of Discipline Verse 15 states, "Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him." The Hebrew word for "discipline" (מוּסָר, musar) implies correction and instruction, underscoring the necessity of guiding children away from folly through appropriate correction. 11. Justice and Fairness Proverbs 22:22-23 warns against exploiting the poor: "Do not rob a poor man because he is poor, and do not crush the afflicted at the gate, for the LORD will take up their case and will plunder those who rob them." This theme stresses God's concern for justice and His defense of the marginalized. 12. The Dangers of Anger and Hot-Temperedness Verse 24 advises, "Do not make friends with an angry man, and do not associate with a hot-tempered man." The Hebrew word for "angry" (אַף, aph) can also mean "nose" or "face," metaphorically describing the flaring nostrils of anger, warning against the destructive nature of such relationships. 13. The Importance of Integrity in Business Proverbs 22:28 instructs, "Do not move an ancient boundary stone set up by your forefathers." This theme highlights the importance of honesty and respect for established boundaries, particularly in business and property matters, reflecting a commitment to integrity and fairness. Prayer Points Pray for the wisdom to live a life of integrity and to build a good name that honors God. Ask God to help you see and treat others as equals, created in His image. Seek guidance in effectively teaching and mentoring the younger generation in the ways of the Lord. Pray for the strength to overcome laziness and to be diligent in all tasks. Request a humble heart that fears the Lord and seeks His will above all else. Pray for a generous spirit and the courage to act justly in all situations. Answering Tough Questions 1. Proverbs 22:2: How can a just God create both rich and poor yet allow extreme wealth inequality to persist? 2. Proverbs 22:4: If humility and fear of the Lord lead to riches and honor, why do many humble believers remain in poverty or face hardship? 3. Proverbs 22:6: How do we reconcile the promise of a child never departing from a proper upbringing with real-world examples of children abandoning their faith? 4. Proverbs 22:7: Why does the text point out the rule of the rich over the poor but offer no direct solution to systemic economic oppression? 5. Proverbs 22:10: How do we reconcile the call to “drive out the mocker” with the New Testament emphasis on love, forgiveness, and inclusion? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How can you apply the principle of valuing a good name over wealth in today's materialistic society? 2. In what ways can you demonstrate generosity to the poor as suggested in verse 9? 3. What might it look like to "train up a child in the way he should go" in modern society? 4. How can you avoid the pitfalls of debt and laziness in your personal life? 5. In your opinion, why does the Bible advise against mingling with a hot-tempered person? 6. How can the principle of fairness and justice be applied in your day-to-day interactions with others? 7. What does it mean to "apply your heart to instruction" as advised in verse 17? 8. How does the warning against moving an ancient boundary stone apply in today's context of honoring traditional wisdom and the advice of elders? 9. How do you reconcile the wisdom of giving to the poor while not giving gifts to the rich with societal norms? 10. What are some practical ways to ensure you're not robbing the poor or mocking the needy? 11. How can you practically apply the teachings of this chapter in your workplace? 12. How does the advice against oppressing the poor or giving gifts to the rich apply to current issues of social justice? 13. What does verse 2, which states that the rich and poor have this in common - the Lord is Maker of them all, say about human equality and how can this be applied in the modern world? 14. How might the teaching of verse 4 on humility and fear of the Lord shape your personal or professional life? 15. How can you cultivate the humility spoken of in verse 4 in your daily life? 16. What practical steps can you take to apply the wisdom of verse 24 about not making friends with a hot-tempered person? 17. How does the chapter's emphasis on wisdom and understanding resonate with your personal experiences? 18. How can you implement the chapter's teachings on discipline and guidance in your interactions with young people? 19. In what ways do the concepts of integrity and honesty manifest in your life? 20. How can the teachings in Proverbs 22 inspire you to live a more righteous and fulfilling life? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions