Proverbs 15:27

Translation
King James Version
¶ He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.
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KJV (with Strong's)
He that is greedy H1214 of gain H1215 troubleth H5916 his own house H1004; but he that hateth H8130 gifts H4979 shall live H2421.
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Complete Jewish Bible
The greedy for gain brings trouble to his home, but he who hates bribes will live.
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Berean Standard Bible
He who is greedy for unjust gain brings trouble on his household, but he who hates bribes will live.
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American Standard Version
He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; But he that hateth bribes shall live.
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World English Bible Messianic
He who is greedy for gain troubles his own house, but he who hates bribes will live.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
He that is greedie of gaine, troubleth his owne house: but he that hateth giftes, shall liue.
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Young's Literal Translation
A dishonest gainer is troubling his house, And whoso is hating gifts liveth.
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See also
Proverbs 1:19Exodus 23:8Jeremiah 17:11Proverbs 11:29Isaiah 33:15Isaiah 33:16Deuteronomy 16:19
In the KJVVerse 16,835 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Proverbs 15:27 incisively contrasts the perilous path of avarice with the secure way of integrity, particularly in the domestic sphere. It warns that an insatiable, dishonest pursuit of wealth inevitably introduces discord, instability, and ruin into one's own household, undermining its peace and well-being. Conversely, the proverb commends the individual who steadfastly rejects illicit gains and bribes, promising them a life of genuine flourishing, security, and holistic prosperity, thereby demonstrating that true and lasting well-being is rooted in righteousness and moral uprightness rather than in ill-gotten accumulation.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: Proverbs 15 is a rich tapestry of wisdom sayings, predominantly employing antithetical parallelism to illuminate the stark divergence between wisdom and folly, righteousness and wickedness. Verse 27 stands as a prime example of this literary technique, presenting a clear dichotomy between two contrasting approaches to material gain and their profoundly different outcomes. It is nestled within a section of proverbs that consistently emphasize the transformative power of speech and thought, as seen in the preceding verse which contrasts the thoughts of the wicked with pure words. The chapter continues to explore themes of justice, diligence, and the foundational importance of the fear of the Lord. This particular proverb functions as a practical ethical instruction, illustrating how an individual's personal moral choices regarding financial integrity directly and profoundly impact the harmony, stability, and spiritual health of their family unit.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: In ancient Israel, the "house" (bayith) was far more than a physical dwelling; it represented the fundamental social, economic, and spiritual unit of society. It encompassed the extended family, servants, land, and all economic activities, serving as the bedrock of identity and security. The well-being and reputation of the household were paramount, and any internal strife or external shame brought upon it was considered a grave matter. The pursuit of "gain" (betsaʻ) was a natural part of economic life, but the wisdom literature consistently distinguished between legitimate profit and "greedy gain," which implied unjust, exploitative, or covetous acquisition. "Gifts" (mattânâh), in this specific context, frequently denoted bribes, a pervasive problem in the ancient Near East that corrupted justice, undermined social order, and exploited the vulnerable. Biblical law unequivocally condemned bribery, recognizing its destructive impact on both individuals and the community, as explicitly stated in Exodus 23:8. Thus, the proverb directly addresses the moral challenges inherent in the economic and judicial landscape of a society where personal integrity was indispensable for communal flourishing.
  • Key Themes: This proverb significantly contributes to several overarching themes woven throughout the Book of Proverbs. Firstly, it powerfully underscores the Ethical Acquisition of Wealth, asserting that the means by which wealth is obtained are of greater consequence than its mere accumulation. It serves as a potent warning against the destructive nature of covetousness and dishonest gain, a recurring motif that cautions against the allure and pitfalls of quick riches, a sentiment echoed in Proverbs 28:20. Secondly, it highlights the Centrality of the Household as the primary sphere impacted by an individual's ethical choices. A "troubled house" signifies familial discord, economic instability, and spiritual decay, standing in stark contrast to the peace and prosperity promised to the righteous. This concept is foundational to Israelite wisdom, as further elaborated in Proverbs 11:29. Lastly, the proverb reinforces the profound theme of Integrity Leading to Life, where "life" (châyâh) signifies not merely physical existence but a flourishing, abundant, and holistic existence characterized by peace, security, and divine favor, directly linking moral uprightness with comprehensive well-being and blessing.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Greedy (Hebrew, bâtsaʻ', H1214): This primitive root means "to break off," "plunder," or "gain greedily." It denotes an aggressive, often unscrupulous, and covetous pursuit of profit, implying an eagerness to acquire wealth by any means, even at the expense of others or through illicit practices. The individual is driven by an insatiable desire for material acquisition.
  • Troubleth (Hebrew, ʻâkar', H5916): This primitive root properly means "to roil water," but figuratively, "to disturb" or "afflict." It vividly portrays the internal chaos, disquiet, and distress that the greedy person's actions inevitably bring upon their household. This disturbance disrupts the family's peace, harmony, and stability, creating an environment of strife and anxiety.
  • Live (Hebrew, châyâh', H2421): This primitive root means "to live," whether literally or figuratively, and causatively, "to revive." In this context, it signifies far more than mere physical existence; it implies a full, thriving, prosperous life marked by well-being, security, and divine blessing. It represents a holistic flourishing that stands in stark contrast to a life cut short or troubled by unrighteousness.

Verse Breakdown

  • "He that is greedy of gain": This opening clause identifies an individual whose character is defined by an excessive, often unscrupulous, desire for wealth or material possessions. The phrase "greedy of gain" points to a covetous attitude that prioritizes financial accumulation above all else, often implying a willingness to acquire profit through dishonest or exploitative means.
  • "troubleth his own house": This is presented as the direct, inevitable, and destructive consequence of such avarice. The relentless and often unethical pursuit of wealth introduces discord, instability, and profound distress into the family unit. This trouble can manifest as neglect of familial relationships, moral compromises that bring shame upon the household, internal strife over finances, or even legal repercussions, ultimately leading to a breakdown of peace and harmony within the home.
  • "but he that hateth gifts": This clause introduces a sharp and deliberate contrast, shifting focus to a person of integrity. "Gifts" here specifically refers to bribes or illicit payments, not general acts of generosity. The one who "hates" them possesses a deep-seated moral aversion to corruption and dishonest acquisition, valuing righteousness and ethical conduct far above any potential financial advantage or illicit gain.
  • "shall live": This is the promised and blessed outcome for the person of integrity. This "life" is comprehensive, signifying not just physical existence but a flourishing, secure, and truly prosperous life, characterized by peace, well-being, and divine favor. It implies a life free from the internal strife, anxiety, and external consequences that plague the greedy, enjoying genuine, lasting, and holistic prosperity.

Literary Devices

The verse primarily employs Antithetical Parallelism, a foundational literary device in Proverbs, where two contrasting lines present opposing ideas or outcomes to highlight a profound moral truth. The first half vividly describes the negative, destructive consequences of greed, while the second half presents the positive, life-affirming results of integrity, creating a stark didactic comparison that emphasizes the wisdom of righteous choices. Metonymy is evident in the use of "house" (bayith), which stands not merely for a physical dwelling but for the entire family, household, and lineage, emphasizing that the consequences of an individual's financial ethics profoundly impact the entire familial unit and its legacy. The phrase "hateth gifts" uses Hyperbole or Strong Language to underscore the absolute moral rejection of corruption, indicating an unyielding and passionate commitment to righteousness rather than a mere dislike or casual avoidance.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

This proverb deeply resonates with broader biblical theology concerning the nature of wealth, justice, and the holistic well-being of God's people. It underscores that true prosperity is not merely material accumulation but is intrinsically linked to righteousness, integrity, and a right relationship with God. The pursuit of dishonest gain is consistently portrayed as an affront to God's character and justice, and a destructive force within human relationships, particularly the family unit which God ordained. Conversely, a steadfast commitment to ethical conduct, even when it means rejecting apparent opportunities for quick or illicit profit, aligns one with God's divine order and promises a life of genuine flourishing and peace. This wisdom tradition consistently teaches that God blesses integrity and judges corruption, emphasizing that our financial dealings are not morally neutral but have profound spiritual, relational, and eternal consequences.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Proverbs 15:27 serves as a timeless and piercing mirror, inviting us to critically examine the underlying motivations behind our financial pursuits and to honestly confront the profound impact they have on our most intimate relationships and our spiritual state. In a world often relentlessly driven by the insatiable pursuit of more, this proverb calls us to pause and consider whether our "gain" is truly gain if it comes at the devastating cost of our family's peace, our personal integrity, our spiritual vitality, or our reputation. It challenges us to cultivate a profound, even visceral, aversion to any form of dishonest, exploitative, or covetous acquisition, reminding us that true "life"—a life of flourishing, contentment, spiritual peace, and divine blessing—is found not in the relentless accumulation of wealth by any means, but in the steadfast, unwavering commitment to righteousness and ethical conduct. Our choices in the marketplace, in our careers, and in our financial dealings ripple directly into our homes, shaping the atmosphere, the values, and the lasting legacy we leave behind. This divine wisdom guides us to prioritize the well-being of our household and our moral standing above fleeting material advantages, fostering a life of genuine peace, lasting prosperity, and deep spiritual contentment.

Questions for Reflection

  • In what specific ways might the pursuit of "gain" (whether financial, professional, or social) be subtly or overtly "troubling" your own "house" (your family, your personal peace, your spiritual life, or your inner tranquility)?
  • What specific "gifts" or opportunities for dishonest gain, compromise, or unethical shortcuts might you be tempted by in your current circumstances, and how can you cultivate a deeper, more resolute "hatred" for them?
  • How does this proverb fundamentally reshape or deepen your understanding of what constitutes true "life" or genuine prosperity, moving beyond mere material accumulation to encompass holistic well-being?
  • What tangible, practical steps can you commit to taking this week to ensure that your financial dealings and career pursuits consistently uphold integrity and actively contribute to the flourishing and peace of your household?

FAQ

Does "hateth gifts" mean we shouldn't accept presents or be generous?

Answer: No, the phrase "hateth gifts" in Proverbs 15:27 specifically refers to a strong moral aversion to bribes, illicit payments, or dishonest emoluments. The Hebrew word for "gifts" (mattânâh, H4979) can indeed refer to a legitimate present or offering, but in contexts like this, especially when contrasted with "greedy of gain" and linked to "life," it carries the negative connotation of a corrupt payment intended to sway judgment or secure an unfair advantage. The Bible elsewhere strongly encourages generosity and the giving of legitimate gifts (Proverbs 11:25), but it vehemently condemns bribery and dishonest gain (Exodus 23:8). This proverb commends the individual who refuses to compromise their integrity for any financial advantage, however tempting.

How does "troubleth his own house" manifest in modern contexts?

Answer: In modern contexts, "troubling one's own house" due to greed can manifest in numerous and insidious ways. It might involve neglecting family relationships due to an obsessive pursuit of work, financial success, or material possessions, leading to emotional distance, marital strain, or alienated children. It could involve engaging in unethical business practices, fraud, or tax evasion that, when exposed, bring shame, legal trouble, or financial ruin upon the family name and reputation. Financial dishonesty can also lead to internal family conflict, distrust, and a breakdown of peace within the home as members vie for resources or suffer the consequences of illicit dealings. The relentless pressure to maintain a certain lifestyle fueled by ill-gotten gains can also create an environment of anxiety, secrecy, and instability, ultimately undermining the holistic well-being of the household, much like the warning in Proverbs 11:29.

What does "shall live" truly imply in this proverb?

Answer: "Shall live" (châyâh, H2421) in this context implies far more than mere physical existence. It signifies a life of genuine flourishing, comprehensive well-being, and profound security, often accompanied by divine blessing and favor. It encompasses spiritual vitality, peace of mind, healthy and thriving relationships, a good reputation within the community, and a sense of contentment that transcends material possessions. Unlike the "troubled house" of the greedy, the one who rejects illicit gain experiences true prosperity that is holistic, lasting, and deeply satisfying. This concept of "life" is a recurring and central theme in Proverbs, where wisdom and righteousness consistently lead to a full, abundant, and blessed life, standing in stark contrast to the destructive and ultimately futile path of folly and wickedness, as powerfully illustrated in passages like Proverbs 3:1-2.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Proverbs 15:27, like all Old Testament wisdom, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest redemptive meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "greedy of gain" represents humanity's fallen tendency towards the idolatry of wealth and self-serving ambition, a pursuit that inevitably leads to spiritual and relational ruin, as Jesus Himself warned that one cannot serve both God and money, for such divided loyalty is impossible (Matthew 6:24). Christ perfectly embodied the one "that hateth gifts" in the profound sense of utterly rejecting all forms of unrighteous gain, worldly compromise, and self-serving power. He famously refused the devil's temptations to gain the kingdoms of the world through illicit means and worship (Matthew 4:8-10), choosing instead the path of perfect obedience, integrity, and self-sacrificial love. His earthly life was never troubled by the pursuit of earthly riches or status, but was entirely devoted to doing the will of His Father, even to the point of obedient death on the cross (Philippians 2:8). Through His perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection, He offers true, abundant, and eternal "life" to all who believe—a life that is free from the destructive power of sin, greed, and the anxieties of this world (John 10:10). Believers are called to imitate Christ's radical integrity, seeking first God's kingdom and His righteousness, trusting that all necessary things will be provided by a faithful Father (Matthew 6:33), thereby building a "house" (both spiritual and familial) that is founded on the unshakeable rock of Christ's teachings and His very person, rather than on fleeting earthly gain or corrupt foundations (Matthew 7:24-27).

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Commentary on Proverbs 15 verse 27

27 ¶ He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.

Note, 1. Those that are covetous entail trouble upon their families: He that is greedy of gain, and therefore makes himself a slave to the world, rises up early, sits up late, and eats the bread of carefulness, in pursuit of it - he that hurries, and puts himself and all about him upon the stretch, in business, frets and vexes at every loss and disappointment, and quarrels with every body that stands in the way of his profit - he troubles his own house, is a burden and vexation to his children and servants. He that, in his greediness of gain, takes bribes, and uses unlawful ways of getting money, leaves a curse with what he gets to those that come after him, which sooner or later will bring trouble into the house, Hab 2:9, Hab 2:10. 2. Those that are generous as well as righteous entail a blessing upon their families: He that hates gifts, that shakes his hands from holding the bribes that are thrust into his hand to pervert justice and abhors all sinful indirect ways of getting money - that hates to be paltry and mercenary, and is willing, if there be occasion, to do good gratis - he shall live; he shall have the comfort of life, shall live in prosperity and reputation; his name and family shall live and continue.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verse 27. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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