Proverbs 13:7

¶ There is that maketh himself rich, yet [hath] nothing: [there is] that maketh himself poor, yet [hath] great riches.

There is {H3426} that maketh himself rich {H6238}, yet hath nothing: there is that maketh himself poor {H7326}, yet {H3605} hath great {H7227} riches {H1952}.

There are those with nothing who pretend they are rich, also those with great wealth who pretend they are poor.

One pretends to be rich, but has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth.

There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: There is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great wealth.

Proverbs 13:7 presents a profound paradox concerning wealth, challenging the superficial understanding of riches and poverty. It distinguishes between outward appearance and inner reality, urging readers to look beyond material possessions to discern true value.

Context

The Book of Proverbs is a collection of ancient wisdom sayings, offering practical guidance for living a righteous and flourishing life. Often, it employs antithetical parallelism, where two contrasting ideas are set against each other to highlight a truth. This verse is a classic example, contrasting a deceptive outward display with a hidden, profound reality. It fits within the broader theme of Proverbs that emphasizes the importance of integrity, wisdom, and character over fleeting material gain.

Key Themes

  • Appearance vs. Reality: The central message is a stark contrast between what one seems to be and what one truly possesses. Some individuals cultivate an image of being rich, perhaps through boasting, debt, or ill-gotten gains, yet they lack genuine substance, integrity, or spiritual well-being. Conversely, others may appear humble or materially poor, but their lives are rich in wisdom, character, contentment, or spiritual blessings.
  • True Riches: The proverb redefines "riches." It implies that authentic wealth is not solely measured by bank accounts or possessions. Instead, it encompasses spiritual treasures, moral integrity, inner peace, and a right standing before God. This aligns with teachings that encourage storing up treasures in heaven rather than on earth.
  • Integrity and Deception: The phrase "maketh himself rich" can imply a degree of pretense or even dishonesty in acquiring or displaying wealth. Such a person might be living a lie. The one who "maketh himself poor" suggests a person who is humble, content, or perhaps generous, whose true wealth lies in their character and spirit, not in outward show.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term for "maketh himself rich" is mit'asher (מִתְעַשֵּׁר), which is a reflexive verb, meaning one "enriches oneself." This can carry the nuance of actively striving for wealth, often with an emphasis on pretense or a superficial display. It suggests a self-centered pursuit of riches. On the other hand, "maketh himself poor" is mitroshesh (מִתְרוֹשֵׁשׁ), also reflexive, implying one "impoverishes oneself" or "makes oneself poor." This could refer to someone who chooses a modest lifestyle, is genuinely humble, or perhaps is so generous that they appear to have little, yet possess true, unseen abundance.

Practical Application

Proverbs 13:7 serves as a powerful reminder for self-reflection and a warning against materialism:

  • Examine Your Values: This verse challenges us to consider what we truly value. Are we pursuing outward appearances and material gain, or are we investing in character, wisdom, and spiritual growth?
  • Guard Against Deception: Be wary of those who project an image of success that lacks substance, and equally, avoid falling into the trap of living beyond your means or pretending to be something you're not. Authenticity is key.
  • Seek Enduring Wealth: The "great riches" spoken of here are lasting. They include spiritual blessings, strong relationships, peace of mind, and the contentment that comes from godliness. As 1 Timothy 6:6 teaches, "godliness with contentment is great gain."
  • Embrace Humility: There is profound strength and true abundance in humility. Not needing to impress others with possessions or status frees one to pursue what truly matters, aligning with God's perspective who looks at the heart, not just the outward appearance (1 Samuel 16:7).
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Revelation 3:17

    Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:

  • Proverbs 11:24

    ¶ There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and [there is] that withholdeth more than is meet, but [it tendeth] to poverty.

  • Luke 18:11

    The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men [are], extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.

  • Luke 18:14

    I tell you, this man went down to his house justified [rather] than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

  • Proverbs 12:9

    ¶ [He that is] despised, and hath a servant, [is] better than he that honoureth himself, and lacketh bread.

  • 2 Corinthians 4:7

    But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

  • 2 Corinthians 6:10

    As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and [yet] possessing all things.

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