Proverbs 19:4

KJV

¶ Wealth maketh many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbour.

KJV (with Strong's)

Wealth {H1952} maketh {H3254} many {H7227} friends {H7453}; but the poor {H1800} is separated {H6504} from his neighbour {H7453}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Wealth brings in many friends, but the poor man loses the one friend he has.

Berean Standard Bible

Wealth attracts many friends, but a poor man is deserted by his friend.

American Standard Version

Wealth addeth many friends; But the poor is separated from his friend.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 19:4 offers a stark, yet insightful, observation about human social dynamics, revealing how material prosperity often attracts superficial relationships while poverty tends to lead to isolation. It highlights a common societal flaw where connections are based on perceived benefit rather than genuine affection or intrinsic worth, serving as a cautionary note on the fleeting nature of friendships built on wealth and the harsh reality faced by the impoverished.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 19 is a rich tapestry of wisdom sayings, largely attributed to Solomon, focusing on practical righteousness and the consequences of various choices. This particular verse is nestled among proverbs that contrast wisdom with folly, diligence with laziness, and the outcomes of justice versus injustice. It functions as an astute observation of societal realities, not necessarily an endorsement. Many proverbs in this chapter, such as [Proverbs 19:6](/proverbs/19-6 "Proverbs 19:6 - Many seek the favor of a prince"), further elaborate on how people are drawn to those in power or with resources, reinforcing the theme of superficial alliances. The verse contributes to the chapter's broader exploration of human nature and the moral implications of social behavior.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern societies, as in many cultures, wealth often conferred status, influence, and access to networks. Patronage systems were common, where the wealthy provided support in exchange for loyalty or services. Therefore, "friends" attracted by wealth could include clients, dependents, or those seeking favor or economic opportunity. Conversely, the poor often lacked such networks and were vulnerable, frequently marginalized and overlooked. Without social safety nets, their isolation could be severe, as their "neighbor" (a term often implying a close associate or community member) might distance themselves to avoid perceived burdens or social stigma. This proverb reflects the harsh realities of a society where economic standing heavily influenced social standing and relationships.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the Book of Proverbs. It underscores the **superficiality of worldly relationships** built on material gain rather than genuine character or loyalty, a theme echoed in [Proverbs 14:20](/proverbs/14-20 "Proverbs 14:20 - The poor are hated by their neighbors"). It also highlights the **isolation and vulnerability of the poor**, emphasizing a societal tendency to neglect those without resources, which contrasts sharply with God's concern for the vulnerable (e.g., [Proverbs 22:22-23](/proverbs/22-22 "Proverbs 22:22-23 - Do not oppress the poor")). Furthermore, it subtly critiques the **deceptive nature of wealth**, which can create an illusion of popularity and security while obscuring true human connection, a concept explored in [Proverbs 23:5](/proverbs/23-5 "Proverbs 23:5 - The fleeting nature of riches").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Wealth (Hebrew, _hôwn'_):** From the same root as `אוֹן`, meaning strength or ability. This word refers to riches, substance, or property. In this context, it signifies material possessions and financial abundance, which are presented as a magnet for social connections. The implication is that this "wealth" is the primary, if not sole, basis for the attraction of "friends."
* **Poor (Hebrew, _dal'_):** Derived from `דָּלַל`, meaning to dangle or be weak/thin. This term describes someone who is needy, weak, or impoverished. It conveys a state of vulnerability and lack, which, according to the proverb, leads to social ostracization. The word emphasizes not just a lack of resources but the resulting diminished social standing.
* **Separated (Hebrew, _pârad'_):** A primitive root meaning to break through, spread, or separate oneself. Here, it denotes being dispersed, divided, or severed from others. It powerfully conveys the social alienation and isolation experienced by the poor, suggesting an active distancing by others rather than mere neglect.
* **Neighbour (Hebrew, _rêaʻ'_):** Or `רֵיעַ`, from `רָעָה`, meaning to associate or befriend. This word refers to an associate, companion, fellow, or close friend. The use of "neighbour" in contrast to "friends" for the wealthy highlights the tragic irony: even those who should be close, or share a common bond, distance themselves from the poor.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Wealth maketh many friends":** This clause observes a common social phenomenon: material prosperity attracts a multitude of associates. These "friends" are often drawn by the potential benefits, opportunities, or social prestige associated with the wealthy individual, rather than by genuine affection or shared values. It implies a superficiality in these relationships, where the connection is contingent upon the continued presence of wealth.
* **"but the poor is separated from his neighbour":** This contrasting clause reveals the painful inverse reality. Those who lack resources experience social alienation. Even their "neighbor," a term suggesting someone close or within their community, distances themselves. This separation signifies not just a lack of new acquaintances but an active withdrawal or abandonment by existing associates, leading to profound loneliness and marginalization.

#### Literary Devices
The proverb employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. **Antithesis** is central, contrasting the "wealthy" and their "many friends" with the "poor" and their "separated" status from their "neighbour." This sharp juxtaposition highlights the societal hypocrisy and the conditional nature of human relationships. **Irony** is also present; while wealth seemingly brings connection, these relationships are often shallow, whereas poverty, despite the inherent human need for community, leads to isolation. The use of "maketh" (H3254, _yâçaph_, meaning to add or augment) for wealth and "separated" (H6504, _pârad_, meaning to break through or sever) for the poor creates a vivid **parallelism** of action, emphasizing the active role of wealth in attracting and poverty in repelling. The proverb functions as a keen **observation**, presenting a truth about human behavior without necessarily endorsing it, thereby inviting the reader to reflect on the nature of true friendship and compassion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This proverb, while a shrewd observation of human nature, carries profound theological implications. It exposes the fallen human tendency to value material gain over genuine human connection and compassion, contrasting sharply with God's own character and commands. The Lord consistently demonstrates a heart for the poor and vulnerable, and His Kingdom values are often an inversion of worldly wisdom, where the last are first and the humble are exalted. This verse implicitly challenges believers to rise above such superficiality and embody a divine perspective on relationships and resources, recognizing that true wealth lies not in possessions but in righteousness and love.

* [Proverbs 14:20](/proverbs/14-20 "Proverbs 14:20 - The poor are hated by their neighbors")
* [Proverbs 22:22](/proverbs/22-22 "Proverbs 22:22 - Do not oppress the poor")
* [Proverbs 28:27](/proverbs/28-27 "Proverbs 28:27 - He who gives to the poor will not lack")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 19:4 serves as a mirror, reflecting a sobering truth about human nature and societal values. It challenges us to critically examine the foundations of our own relationships and the values we uphold. Are our friendships built on genuine affection, shared values, and mutual respect, or are they subtly influenced by what others possess or can offer? This verse calls us to cultivate relationships that transcend material status, fostering connections based on character and compassion, especially towards those who are marginalized. It reminds us that true generosity and empathy are not about what we gain, but what we give, particularly to those society often overlooks. As followers of Christ, we are called to embody a counter-cultural ethic, extending love and support to the poor and friendless, thereby reflecting the heart of God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How might the pursuit of wealth subtly or overtly influence the nature of my relationships?**
* **In what ways do I, or my community, inadvertently contribute to the isolation of the poor?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate more genuine, unconditional friendships, especially with those who might be overlooked by society?**
* **How does this proverb challenge my understanding of true value and success?**

### FAQ
**Does this proverb endorse the idea that wealth automatically brings good friends?**

Answer: No, this proverb does not endorse the idea that wealth brings *good* friends. Instead, it offers a stark observation about human nature and societal dynamics. It highlights that "wealth maketh many friends" in the sense that it attracts numerous associates, but these relationships are often superficial and transactional, based on what the wealthy person possesses rather than who they are. The proverb implicitly critiques this reality, particularly when contrasted with the isolation experienced by the poor. It serves as a warning against trusting in fleeting material advantages for genuine connection, aligning with other wisdom literature that cautions against the deceptive nature of riches (e.g., [Proverbs 23:5](/proverbs/23-5 "Proverbs 23:5 - The fleeting nature of riches")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 19:4, with its raw depiction of human superficiality and the plight of the poor, finds its ultimate counter-narrative and fulfillment in the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. While the world values status and wealth, Jesus intentionally inverted these values, identifying with the poor and marginalized. He did not attract "friends" through material possessions, but through sacrificial love and divine truth, often drawing those whom society had cast aside (e.g., tax collectors and sinners, as seen in [Matthew 9:10-13](/matthew/9-10 "Matthew 9:10-13 - Jesus eats with sinners")). His kingdom is one where the poor in spirit are blessed ([Matthew 5:3](/matthew/5-3 "Matthew 5:3 - Blessed are the poor in spirit")), and where true riches are found in heavenly treasures that do not fade ([Matthew 6:19-21](/matthew/6-19 "Matthew 6:19-21 - Lay up treasures in heaven")). Jesus Himself, though rich, became poor for our sake ([2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ became poor for our sake")), demonstrating that true connection and ultimate salvation come through humility and self-sacrifice, not through worldly gain. He is the ultimate "neighbor" who does not separate Himself from the poor, but draws near to them, offering genuine friendship and eternal life.

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 14:20

¶ The poor is hated even of his own neighbour: but the rich [hath] many friends.

Luke 15:13

And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.

Luke 15:15

And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.

Proverbs 19:6

¶ Many will intreat the favour of the prince: and every man [is] a friend to him that giveth gifts.

Proverbs 19:7

All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him? he pursueth [them with] words, [yet] they [are] wanting [to him].

Job 6:15

My brethren have dealt deceitfully as a brook, [and] as the stream of brooks they pass away;

Job 6:23

Or, Deliver me from the enemy's hand? or, Redeem me from the hand of the mighty?