Proverbs 17:5

KJV

¶ Whoso mocketh the poor reproacheth his Maker: [and] he that is glad at calamities shall not be unpunished.

KJV (with Strong's)

Whoso mocketh {H3932} the poor {H7326} reproacheth {H2778} his Maker {H6213}: and he that is glad {H8056} at calamities {H343} shall not be unpunished {H5352}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He who mocks the poor insults his maker; he who rejoices at calamity will not go unpunished.

Berean Standard Bible

He who mocks the poor insults their Maker; whoever gloats over calamity will not go unpunished.

American Standard Version

Whoso mocketh the poor reproacheth his Maker; Andhe that is glad at calamity shall not be unpunished.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 17:5 delivers a profound dual warning against two forms of spiritual insensitivity that betray a lack of reverence for God: mocking the poor and rejoicing in the misfortunes of others. This proverb not only underscores God's deep identification with the vulnerable and His unwavering commitment to justice but also reveals that our attitudes and actions toward our fellow human beings are, in essence, direct reflections of our posture toward the Creator Himself. It serves as a timeless reminder that true wisdom is inextricably linked to compassion and righteous conduct.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 17 is a rich tapestry of independent wisdom sayings, characteristic of the broader Book of Proverbs. This chapter, like many others, juxtaposes the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked, often focusing on the power of words, the nature of relationships, and the consequences of moral choices. Proverbs 17:5 stands as a powerful ethical statement within a collection that frequently addresses social justice and the treatment of the marginalized. It is immediately preceded by proverbs concerning the importance of integrity and the dangers of perverse speech, and followed by verses that praise the value of a true friend and condemn the folly of those who lack understanding. The verse’s placement highlights the deep connection between one's inner disposition (heart attitude) and outward behavior (speech and reaction to others' suffering), emphasizing that true wisdom manifests in compassion and respect for all, especially the vulnerable.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Israelite society, while hierarchical, maintained a strong theological emphasis on the care of the poor, the widow, and the orphan, rooted in the Mosaic Law and prophetic tradition. God, as the ultimate Creator and King, was seen as the defender of the oppressed. Mocking the poor was not merely a social slight but a direct affront to the divine order, as it denied the inherent dignity of individuals created in God's image and disregarded His special concern for the needy. Similarly, rejoicing in calamities, or "schadenfreude," ran contrary to the communal solidarity expected within the covenant community. Such attitudes were considered antithetical to the character of a people called to reflect God's justice and mercy. The proverb reflects a cultural understanding that one's standing before God was intimately tied to their ethical treatment of others, particularly those in vulnerable positions.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 17:5 powerfully articulates several core themes prevalent throughout the wisdom literature. Firstly, it emphasizes **Divine Sovereignty and Human Dignity**, asserting that because God is the [Maker of all humanity](/job/31-15 "Job 31:15 - God as Creator of All"), to mock the poor is to insult the Creator Himself. This theme is echoed in [Proverbs 14:31](/proverbs/14-31 "Proverbs 14:31 - Oppressing the Poor Reproaches God"), which states, "He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor." Secondly, the verse highlights the contrast between **Compassion and Cruelty**. True wisdom, as taught in Proverbs, cultivates empathy and a heart that mourns with those who mourn, rather than finding perverse joy in their pain. This aligns with the broader biblical call to love one's neighbor. Finally, it underscores the principle of **Divine Justice and Retribution**. The declaration that "he that is glad at calamities shall not be unpunished" serves as a stark warning, reinforcing the consistent theme in Proverbs that God, as the righteous Judge, will hold the wicked accountable for their actions and attitudes, ensuring that no one escapes the consequences of their heartlessness. This is a foundational principle of biblical justice, as seen in passages like [Proverbs 11:21](/proverbs/11-21 "Proverbs 11:21 - The Wicked Shall Not Be Unpunished").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **mocketh (Hebrew, _lâʻag'_):** From H3932, this primitive root means "to deride; by implication (as if imitating a foreigner) to speak unintelligibly." It conveys a sense of scorn, ridicule, or contemptuous laughter. When applied to the poor, it describes an attitude of disdain and disrespect that demeans their humanity and dismisses their suffering.
* **reproacheth (Hebrew, _châraph'_):** From H2778, this word means "to pull off, i.e. (by implication) to expose (as by stripping); specifically, to betroth (as if a surrender); figuratively, to carp at, i.e. defame." In this context, it signifies insulting, defying, or blaspheming. The act of mocking the poor is elevated from a mere social offense to a direct and grievous insult against God Himself, the one who created both the mocker and the mocked.
* **unpunished (Hebrew, _nâqâh'_):** From H5352, this primitive root means "to be (or make) clean (literally or figuratively); by implication (in an adverse sense) to be bare, i.e. extirpated." It carries the sense of being acquitted, blameless, or innocent. The phrase "shall not be unpunished" is a strong Hebrew negation, literally meaning "shall not be clean" or "shall not be acquitted." It emphatically declares that divine judgment and consequences are certain for those who harbor such malicious joy.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Whoso mocketh the poor reproacheth his Maker":** This clause establishes a direct and profound theological connection between humanity and divinity. To mock or scorn those who are economically or socially disadvantaged is not merely an act of human cruelty; it is interpreted as a direct insult, a reproach, or even a blasphemy against God Himself. The underlying premise is that all human beings, regardless of their social or economic status, bear the image of God, their Creator. Therefore, any contempt shown to a fellow human being is ultimately an act of contempt directed at the One who made them. This highlights God's deep identification with the vulnerable and His personal offense at their mistreatment.
* **"and he that is glad at calamities shall not be unpunished":** This second clause addresses a different, yet equally reprehensible, form of heartlessness: finding joy or satisfaction in the misfortunes, disasters, or suffering of others. The Hebrew word for "calamities" (ʼêyd) denotes ruin, destruction, or oppression. Such malicious glee reveals a perverse and unrighteous heart, devoid of empathy and compassion. The strong negative "shall not be unpunished" (literally, "shall not be acquitted" or "shall not be held innocent") serves as an emphatic warning that divine justice will inevitably hold such individuals accountable. God, as the righteous Judge, will not overlook or excuse this form of spiritual depravity, ensuring that those who delight in the pain of others will face consequences.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 17:5 employs several potent **Literary Devices** to convey its message with force and clarity. The primary device is **Parallelism**, specifically a combination of **Synonymous Parallelism** and implied **Antithetical Parallelism**. The first half, "Whoso mocketh the poor reproacheth his Maker," demonstrates synonymous parallelism where the second phrase re-states or intensifies the meaning of the first, equating the human act of mocking the poor with a divine offense against the Creator. This elevates the ethical transgression to a theological one. The second half, "and he that is glad at calamities shall not be unpunished," while not directly parallel in structure to the first, functions as a complementary warning against a similar heart attitude, implicitly contrasting it with the righteous response of empathy. The phrase "shall not be unpunished" is a powerful **Litotes**, a figure of speech where an affirmative is expressed by the negation of its opposite. Instead of simply saying "will be punished," it uses the double negative to create a more emphatic and certain declaration of divine retribution. The proverb also uses **Metonymy** by referring to "his Maker" as a stand-in for God's divine character and authority, emphasizing that disrespect for the created is disrespect for the Creator.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 17:5 is a cornerstone for understanding the biblical emphasis on social justice and the inherent dignity of all humanity. It profoundly links our horizontal relationships with our vertical relationship with God. Theologically, it asserts God's absolute sovereignty as Creator, implying that every human being, regardless of their social standing, bears His image and therefore possesses intrinsic worth. To mock or rejoice in another's suffering is to deface that image and directly insult the Artist. This proverb underscores that genuine piety is not merely ritualistic but is demonstrated through compassion, empathy, and a commitment to justice for the vulnerable. It reveals a God who identifies deeply with the oppressed and who will not tolerate heartlessness or malicious joy. The certainty of punishment for those who delight in others' misfortunes highlights God's unwavering commitment to righteousness and His role as the ultimate Judge who ensures moral order.

* [Proverbs 14:31](/proverbs/14-31 "Proverbs 14:31 - Oppressing the Poor Reproaches God"): "He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor."
* [Matthew 25:40](/matthew/25-40 "Matthew 25:40 - Whatever You Did for One of the Least of These"): "And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."
* [Romans 12:15](/romans/12-15 "Romans 12:15 - Rejoice with Those Who Rejoice, Weep with Those Who Weep"): "Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 17:5 serves as a piercing mirror, inviting us to examine the deepest recesses of our hearts and our often-unconscious attitudes towards others, particularly those who are struggling. It challenges the insidious human tendency to feel superior to the less fortunate or to derive satisfaction from the downfall of perceived rivals. This proverb calls us to cultivate a radical empathy, recognizing that every person we encounter, regardless of their circumstances, is a precious creation of God. Our compassion (or lack thereof) is not just a social nicety; it is a spiritual barometer, revealing the true nature of our reverence for God. It urges us to actively resist the temptation to mock, scorn, or even silently gloat over the pain of others, reminding us that such attitudes are an affront to our Maker and will not go unaddressed by divine justice. Instead, we are called to mourn with those who mourn, to extend grace to the vulnerable, and to champion their dignity, thereby honoring God in our interactions.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what subtle ways might I be tempted to mock or dismiss those who are struggling, whether physically, financially, or emotionally?**
* **How do I react internally when I hear of misfortunes befalling someone I dislike or someone I perceive as a rival? Does my heart lean towards schadenfreude or genuine sorrow?**
* **How does my treatment of the poor and marginalized reflect my true understanding of God as the Creator of all?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to actively demonstrate compassion and uphold the dignity of others, especially those in need?**

### FAQ

**Question?**

Why is mocking the poor considered "reproaching his Maker"?

Answer: The proverb establishes a profound theological link between humanity and divinity. God is the ultimate Creator of all people, rich and poor alike. Therefore, every human being bears the divine image, possessing inherent dignity and worth. To mock or scorn the poor is not merely a social offense; it is an act of contempt directed at God Himself, who made them. It implies a disregard for God's creative work and His special concern for the vulnerable. This concept is deeply rooted in Old Testament theology, where God is consistently portrayed as the defender of the oppressed (e.g., [Deuteronomy 10:18](/deuteronomy/10-18 "Deuteronomy 10:18 - God Loves the Stranger and Poor")).

**Question?**

What does it mean that "he that is glad at calamities shall not be unpunished"?

Answer: This phrase warns against the sin of "schadenfreude," or taking pleasure in the misfortune of others. The Hebrew word for "calamities" (ʼêyd) refers to disaster, ruin, or distress. To be glad at such events reveals a heart devoid of empathy and compassion, perhaps even harboring malice or a perverse sense of justice. The strong negative "shall not be unpunished" (literally, "shall not be acquitted" or "shall not be held innocent") is an emphatic declaration that God will not overlook or excuse such an attitude. It signifies that divine judgment and certain consequences await those who harbor such unrighteous joy, reinforcing God's commitment to justice and the moral order He upholds (see [Proverbs 24:17-18](/proverbs/24-17-18 "Proverbs 24:17-18 - Do Not Rejoice When Your Enemy Falls")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 17:5 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The proverb's condemnation of mocking the poor and rejoicing in calamities speaks directly to the heart of the Gospel. Jesus, the [Son of God](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God So Loved the World"), did not mock the poor but [identified fully with them](/matthew/8-20 "Matthew 8:20 - Jesus Had Nowhere to Lay His Head"), becoming poor Himself that we might become rich ([2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ Became Poor for Our Sake")). He consistently championed the marginalized, healed the sick, fed the hungry, and welcomed the outcasts, demonstrating God's deep compassion and personal identification with the suffering. His parables, such as the [Good Samaritan](/luke/10-30-37 "Luke 10:30-37 - The Parable of the Good Samaritan"), vividly illustrate the call to empathy and active love for those in distress, directly contrasting with the heartlessness condemned in Proverbs. Furthermore, Jesus did not rejoice in the calamities of others; instead, He [wept over Jerusalem](/luke/19-41-44 "Luke 19:41-44 - Jesus Weeps Over Jerusalem") and bore the ultimate calamity of sin on the cross, demonstrating divine sorrow over human suffering and rebellion. His entire ministry was a reversal of the attitudes condemned in this proverb, culminating in His sacrificial love which calls believers to [love one another as He has loved them](/john/13-34 "John 13:34 - A New Commandment"). Thus, Christ embodies the perfect response to the proverb, not only fulfilling its ethical demands but also providing the grace and power for His followers to live out its principles of compassion and justice.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 14:31

¶ He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor.

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?

Job 31:29

If I rejoiced at the destruction of him that hated me, or lifted up myself when evil found him:

Proverbs 16:5

¶ Every one [that is] proud in heart [is] an abomination to the LORD: [though] hand [join] in hand, he shall not be unpunished.

Obadiah 1:11

In the day that thou stoodest on the other side, in the day that the strangers carried away captive his forces, and foreigners entered into his gates, and cast lots upon Jerusalem, even thou [wast] as one of them.

Obadiah 1:13

Thou shouldest not have entered into the gate of my people in the day of their calamity; yea, thou shouldest not have looked on their affliction in the day of their calamity, nor have laid [hands] on their substance in the day of their calamity;

Proverbs 14:21

¶ He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy [is] he.