


Proverbs 14:21
Bible Versions
¶ He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy [is] he.
He who despises his fellow sins, but he who shows compassion to the humble is happy.
He who despises his neighbor sins, but blessed is he who shows kindness to the poor.
He that despiseth his neighbor sinneth; But he that hath pity on the poor, happy is he.
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Proverbs 19:17
¶ He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again. -
Proverbs 28:27
¶ He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse. -
Proverbs 11:12
¶ He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace. -
Proverbs 17:5
¶ Whoso mocketh the poor reproacheth his Maker: [and] he that is glad at calamities shall not be unpunished. -
1 John 3:17
But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels [of compassion] from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? -
1 John 3:22
And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. -
Proverbs 14:31
¶ He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor.
Context
Proverbs 14:21 is a classic example of antithetical parallelism common in the book of Proverbs, where two contrasting ideas are presented to highlight the wisdom of one path over another. This verse fits within a larger collection of wisdom sayings that address practical ethics, social responsibility, and the consequences of human actions. The book of Proverbs frequently emphasizes the importance of justice, compassion, and care for the vulnerable, reflecting God's own character and His expectations for His people's conduct within society.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
Related Scriptures
The first part, "He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth," highlights a fundamental principle of biblical ethics: contempt or disdain for another human being is a direct violation of God's law. This attitude goes against the very spirit of love for one's neighbor, a commandment central to both the Old Testament (Leviticus 19:18) and the New Testament (Matthew 22:39).
Conversely, the second part offers a powerful contrast: "but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he." This promise of happiness or blessing is tied directly to compassionate action. The Bible consistently affirms that showing kindness to the poor is an act of lending to the Lord Himself, and such generosity is met with divine favor. Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of caring for the marginalized, stating that acts of compassion towards "the least of these" are considered as acts done to Him (Matthew 25:40).
Practical Application
Proverbs 14:21 challenges believers to examine their attitudes and actions towards others, particularly those who may be less fortunate or hold a lower social standing. It calls for: