TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Proverbs 14:20.
This shows, not what should be, but what is the common way of the world - to be shy of the poor and fond of the rich. 1. Few will give countenance to those whom the world frowns upon, though otherwise worthy of respect: The poor, who should be pitied, and encouraged, and relieved, is hated, looked strange upon, and kept at a distance, even by his own neighbour, who, before he fell into disgrace, was intimate with him and pretended to have a kindness for him. Most are swallow-friends, that are gone in winter. It is good having God our friend, for he will not desert us when we are poor. 2. Every one will make court to those whom the world smiles upon, though otherwise unworthy: The rich have many friends, friends to their riches, in hope to get something out of them. There is little friendship in the world but what is governed by self-interest, which is no true friendship at all, nor what a wise man will either value himself on or put any confidence in. Those that make the world their God idolize those that have most of its good things, and seek their favour as if indeed they were Heaven's favourites.
Continue studying Proverbs 14:20 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.
Read & Compare
BibleGatewayThis verse in more than 200 translations and 70 languages.
Bible.comThe YouVersion reader — hundreds of translations, reading plans, and highlights.
ESV.orgCrossway's official English Standard Version reader.
NET BibleThe NET translation with 60,000+ translators' notes on every rendering decision.
STEP BibleTyndale House's free study tool — original text, vocabulary, and scholarly resources.
BibliaLogos Bible Software's free web reader.
USCCBThe New American Bible (Revised Edition) with the U.S. bishops' study notes.
Commentaries
BibleHub CommentariesDozens of classic commentaries on this verse, gathered on one page.
StudyLightMore than 100 commentary sets — the largest collection on the web.
BibleRefPlain-English commentary on what this verse means, verse by verse.
Enduring WordDavid Guzik's free commentary on this chapter, widely used by Bible teachers.
Bible Study ToolsVerse commentary alongside Greek and Hebrew study aids.
Original Language & Research
- BibleHub InterlinearThe verse word by word — original language, transliteration, and English.
- BibleHub LexiconEvery word's original-language definition and Strong's entry.
Blue Letter BibleDeep-study tools — Strong's numbers, concordance, and word studies.
SefariaThe Hebrew text with Rashi and centuries of Jewish commentary.
Sermons, Hymns & Audio
TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.
Summary
Proverbs 14:20 offers a poignant and often uncomfortable observation on the transactional nature of human relationships in a fallen world, revealing how material circumstances profoundly influence social dynamics. It starkly highlights the unfortunate reality that individuals in poverty frequently experience isolation and rejection, even from those within their immediate social sphere, while the affluent readily attract a multitude of associates whose allegiance may stem more from self-interest and perceived advantage than from genuine affection or intrinsic worth. This proverb serves as a cynical yet accurate commentary on the superficiality and conditional basis of many human connections, driven by societal perceptions of value and utility rather than inherent character or compassionate solidarity.
Context
Literary Context
Proverbs 14 is a chapter rich in antithetical parallelism, a hallmark of Hebrew wisdom literature, which contrasts the paths and outcomes of the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked. Verse 20 fits squarely within this framework, presenting a stark contrast between the social standing of the poor and the rich. It immediately follows a proverb about the scorn shown to neighbors (Proverbs 14:21) and precedes a series of sayings on diligence, profit, and the nature of sin and righteousness. This particular proverb, along with others like Proverbs 19:4 and Proverbs 19:7, forms a recurring theme within the book of Proverbs, which frequently observes the harsh realities of human behavior concerning wealth and poverty, often without endorsing these behaviors but rather exposing them for reflection and discernment.
Historical & Cultural Context
In ancient Israel, as in many ancient Near Eastern societies, social status was inextricably intertwined with economic standing. While the Mosaic Law contained numerous provisions for the care and protection of the poor, the widow, and the orphan (e.g., Deuteronomy 15:7-11), the practical realities of human fallenness often led to a significant disparity between divine command and human conduct. Wealth typically conferred influence, power, and a network of alliances, while poverty could lead to marginalization, indebtedness, and social ostracization. The "neighbour" (rêaʻ) in this context could refer to a close associate, a fellow citizen, or even a kinsman, making the rejection of the poor by their own particularly poignant and indicative of a breakdown in communal responsibility. The "friends" of the rich might include those seeking patronage, business opportunities, or social advantage, reflecting a transactional rather than genuinely relational bond.
Key Themes
This proverb contributes to several key themes prevalent in the book of Proverbs and broader biblical wisdom literature. Firstly, it highlights the harsh reality of social injustice and human depravity, where self-interest often overrides compassion and ethical obligations. It exposes how a society's values can become distorted, leading to the neglect of the vulnerable. Secondly, it underscores the superficiality and conditional nature of relationships that are based on material gain rather than genuine love or intrinsic worth. The "friends" of the rich are often fair-weather companions, illustrating the deceptive nature of prosperity and the perils of trusting in worldly security, a theme echoed in Proverbs 11:28. Thirdly, while observing a societal ill, the proverb implicitly calls for a reassessment of values, challenging the reader to consider how they treat the vulnerable and to cultivate a heart of true generosity and impartiality, echoing the broader biblical emphasis on justice and care for the marginalized found in passages like Amos 5:12 and the New Testament's warnings against partiality in James 2:1-7.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
A primitive root meaning "to be destitute." This word emphasizes a state of lacking, being needy, or being impoverished. It describes not merely a low economic status but a condition of utter destitution and vulnerability, which often leads to social disadvantage, marginalization, and a lack of resources for basic survival.
A primitive root meaning "to hate (personally)." This is a strong term indicating deep personal aversion, rejection, or being treated as an enemy. It signifies more than mere dislike; it implies active social exclusion, disdain, and even animosity, highlighting the profound emotional and relational pain experienced by the poor, who are not just ignored but actively spurned.
A primitive root meaning "to have affection for (sexually or otherwise); (be-) love(-d, -ly, -r), like, friend." While this word typically denotes genuine affection, love, and loyalty, its use here in stark contrast to the "hated" poor, and in conjunction with "many," carries an ironic or cynical undertone. The "friends" of the rich are described using a word for genuine affection, yet the context implies their attachment is often conditional, opportunistic, and self-serving, highlighting the deceptive appearance of such relationships.
Verse Breakdown
"The poor is hated even of his own neighbour:"
This clause paints a bleak and heartbreaking picture of the poor person's social reality. The "poor" (rûwsh), in their state of profound destitution, are not just neglected or forgotten but actively "hated" (sânêʼ). The phrase "even of his own neighbour" (rêaʻ) intensifies the tragedy and betrayal. A neighbor in ancient Near Eastern culture was often a close associate, someone with whom one shared community, mutual obligations, and a sense of kinship. For such a person to hate or reject the poor underscores a profound breakdown of communal solidarity, compassion, and the ethical responsibility to care for the vulnerable, highlighting the depth of the poor's isolation and the cruelty of human self-interest.
"but the rich [hath] many friends."
This contrasting clause presents the inverse reality, exposing the superficiality of worldly relationships. The "rich" (ʻâshîyr), by virtue of their wealth and the influence it confers, attract "many" (rab) "friends" (ʼâhab). The implied meaning is that these "friends" are drawn not by the rich person's character, virtue, or intrinsic worth, but by the benefits, opportunities, patronage, or social advantage that wealth provides. This highlights the conditional and often transactional nature of such relationships, which are rarely genuinely affectionate or loyal. The stark contrast with the isolation of the poor emphasizes the world's tendency to gravitate towards perceived advantage and utility, rather than genuine human connection.
Literary Devices
Proverbs 14:20 masterfully employs Antithetical Parallelism, a foundational characteristic of Hebrew poetry, to convey its powerful message. The first half of the verse ("The poor is hated even of his own neighbour") stands in direct opposition to the second half ("but the rich hath many friends"), creating a sharp contrast that underscores the disparate social realities and moral imbalances inherent in a fallen world. This parallelism is not merely structural but deeply thematic, highlighting the moral and social chasm between the marginalized and the privileged. The proverb also uses a form of Hyperbole or Exaggeration in stating that the poor are "hated even of his own neighbour," which, while perhaps not universally true in every literal instance, powerfully conveys the depth of social rejection, disdain, and neglect experienced by the impoverished. Conversely, the "many friends" of the rich can be seen as an example of Irony, as the sheer quantity of associates does not necessarily equate to quality, sincerity, or genuine affection. This ironic observation serves as a subtle yet potent Social Commentary, exposing the superficiality of human relationships driven by self-interest and material gain rather than true compassion, loyalty, or intrinsic worth.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Proverbs 14:20 serves as a stark commentary on the fallen nature of humanity and the pervasive influence of sin on social structures. It reveals how self-interest, materialism, and a distorted worldview can corrupt human relationships, leading to the abandonment of the vulnerable and the flattery of the powerful. While the proverb observes this harsh reality, it does not endorse it. Instead, it implicitly challenges the reader to align their values with God's heart for justice and compassion. Throughout Scripture, God consistently champions the cause of the poor and marginalized, condemning those who oppress or neglect them. This proverb highlights a societal ill that stands in direct opposition to the biblical call for righteousness, generosity, and genuine love for one's neighbor, regardless of their economic status. It underscores the biblical truth that true wisdom involves discerning between superficial appearances and genuine character, and acting with integrity and compassion towards all, reflecting God's own impartiality and love for the vulnerable.
Reflection and Application
This proverb holds a mirror up to our own hearts and societies, challenging us to examine the basis of our relationships and our attitudes towards wealth and poverty. Do we, consciously or unconsciously, gravitate towards those who can offer us something, or do we extend genuine friendship and support to all, especially those who are marginalized or in need? The "hated" poor and the "many friends" of the rich expose a deep-seated human tendency to value utility and material benefit over inherent worth, and to prioritize self-gain over compassionate community. For believers, this verse is a powerful call to counter-cultural living, to embody the unconditional love of God who shows no partiality. It compels us to actively seek out and uplift the vulnerable, to cultivate authentic relationships built on mutual respect and love, and to resist the world's superficial metrics of success and influence. Our compassion, generosity, and genuine friendship should be extended most readily to those whom the world often overlooks or shuns, reflecting the very heart of Christ. It invites us to consider how we can be agents of God's justice and mercy in a world that often operates on unjust principles.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Does this proverb endorse the shunning of the poor or the pursuit of wealth as a means to gain friends?
No, this proverb does not endorse the shunning of the poor or the pursuit of wealth for its own sake. Instead, it functions as a keen and often painful observation of a sad reality in human society. Wisdom literature, like the book of Proverbs, often describes the world as it is, not as it should be, exposing the consequences of both wisdom and folly. The purpose here is to expose the superficiality and self-interest that often characterize human relationships, particularly in relation to economic status. The broader biblical narrative consistently condemns the oppression and neglect of the poor, and warns against the dangers of wealth and the deceitfulness of riches (e.g., Luke 12:15; Matthew 6:24). Therefore, this verse serves as a cautionary tale and a call to discernment, rather than an endorsement of the observed behavior.
How does this verse reconcile with God's commands to care for the poor and vulnerable?
This proverb highlights the stark contrast between human fallenness and God's divine standard. While the Mosaic Law and prophetic tradition repeatedly command Israel to care for the poor, the widow, and the orphan (e.g., Deuteronomy 15:7-11; Isaiah 58:6-7), this proverb acknowledges that in practice, human societies often fall short of these ideals due to sin and self-interest. It reveals the painful reality of a world where human compassion is often conditional and where self-interest frequently overrides divine commands. Far from contradicting God's commands, the proverb underscores the urgency and necessity of living out those commands, challenging believers to actively resist the world's tendency to neglect the poor and instead embody God's heart for justice and mercy, as exemplified in the New Testament's call to impartiality and love for one's neighbor in James 2:1-9.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Proverbs 14:20, with its stark portrayal of the poor being hated and the rich having many friends, finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus Himself chose a path of radical identification with the marginalized and the poor, embodying the prophetic words that He would be "despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain" (Isaiah 53:3). Though He was the eternal Son of God and the Creator of all, He "became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich" (2 Corinthians 8:9), entering human destitution to bring spiritual abundance. He was indeed "hated" and ultimately rejected by His own people (John 1:11), experiencing the ultimate form of social ostracization and abandonment, even by His closest disciples during His crucifixion. Yet, paradoxically, Jesus also gathered "many friends" – not through worldly wealth or power, but through His radical love, truth, and self-giving sacrifice. He redefined friendship, calling His disciples "friends" because He revealed everything to them and laid down His life for them (John 15:13-15). In His earthly ministry, Jesus consistently championed the cause of the poor, the sick, the outcast, and the sinner, demonstrating God's impartial love and calling His followers to do the same (Matthew 25:31-46). Thus, Jesus not only experienced the painful truth of this proverb in His own life, becoming the ultimate "hated poor" for our sake, but also provided the ultimate antidote to its cynical observation, establishing a Kingdom where true value is found not in wealth or social standing, but in humble service, sacrificial love, and genuine compassion for the "least of these," transforming the very nature of human relationships.