Proverbs 19:7

KJV

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].

KJV (with Strong's)

All the brethren {H251} of the poor {H7326} do hate {H8130} him: how much more do his friends {H4828} go far {H7368} from him? he pursueth {H7291} them with words {H561}, yet they are wanting to him.

Complete Jewish Bible

A poor man's relatives all hate him; even more his friends stay away from him. He may pursue them with entreaties, but they aren't there to be found.

Berean Standard Bible

All the brothers of a poor man hate him— how much more do his friends avoid him! He may pursue them with pleading, but they are nowhere to be found.

American Standard Version

All the brethren of the poor do hate him: How much more do his friends go far from him! He pursueth them with words, but they are gone.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 19:7 offers a sobering and poignant observation on the social realities faced by the impoverished, depicting a profound and painful isolation. It reveals that even the closest familial and social bonds can dissolve in the face of destitution, as "brethren" and "friends" distance themselves from the poor. The verse further highlights the futility of the poor person's desperate appeals for help or connection, as their pleas are met with absence and indifference, underscoring a devastating sense of abandonment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 19 is part of the larger collection of Solomonic proverbs (Proverbs 10-22:16), which primarily consists of two-line sayings that often contrast wisdom with folly, righteousness with wickedness, and the consequences of various choices. This chapter, in particular, frequently addresses themes of justice, wealth, poverty, and human relationships, often highlighting the transient nature of human favor and the importance of integrity. Proverbs 19:7 stands in close proximity to other proverbs that touch upon the social dynamics surrounding wealth and poverty, such as [Proverbs 19:4](/proverbs/19-4 "Proverbs 19:4 - Wealth Attracts Friends"), which states, "Wealth maketh many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbour," and [Proverbs 14:20](/proverbs/14-20 "Proverbs 14:20 - The Poor are Hated"), "The poor is hated even of his own neighbour: but the rich hath many friends." These verses collectively paint a consistent picture of the social marginalization experienced by the poor in ancient Israelite society.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, as in many pre-industrial societies, social networks and familial ties were paramount for survival and security. The extended family (the "house of the father") served as the primary welfare system, offering support in times of famine, illness, or economic hardship. To be alienated from one's "brethren" and "friends" was not merely a social slight but a potentially life-threatening situation, as it meant the loss of crucial economic, social, and protective resources. This proverb reflects a harsh reality where material prosperity often dictated social standing and the willingness of others to associate. While the Mosaic Law commanded care for the poor (e.g., [Deuteronomy 15:7-8](/deuteronomy/15-7 "Deuteronomy 15:7-8 - Lending to the Poor")), the practical outworking of human nature, as observed by the sages, often fell short of this ideal, leading to the abandonment described here.

* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 19:7 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Proverbs. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the **Isolation of Poverty**, showing how destitution can lead to profound social ostracization, where even those expected to provide support turn away. Secondly, it highlights the **Fickleness of Human Relationships**, exposing the superficiality of many friendships and familial bonds that are conditional upon one's status or prosperity, rather than genuine loyalty. This theme is echoed in other wisdom literature, emphasizing that true loyalty is rare and precious (e.g., [Proverbs 17:17](/proverbs/17-17 "Proverbs 17:17 - A Friend Loves at All Times")). Lastly, the verse underscores the theme of **Unanswered Appeals**, depicting the poor person's desperate but futile attempts to solicit help or companionship, revealing a world where their voice goes unheard and their needs unmet. This contrasts sharply with the biblical emphasis on God's attentiveness to the cries of the poor and needy, as seen in passages like [Psalm 34:6](/psalms/34-6 "Psalm 34:6 - The Poor Cry Out to God").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hate (Hebrew, _sânêʼ'_):** This word (H8130) often carries a broader meaning than mere emotional animosity in biblical Hebrew. While it can mean intense dislike, in contexts like this, it frequently signifies treating with disdain, neglecting, shunning, or actively distancing oneself from someone. It denotes a practical rejection or a lack of concern that results in abandonment, rather than necessarily a passionate malice. Thus, "all the brethren of the poor do hate him" implies that they disassociate themselves from him, treating him as an outcast or an inconvenience.
* **Poor (Hebrew, _rûwsh'_):** Derived from H7326, this term describes someone who is destitute, lacking, or needy. It refers to a state of economic hardship and vulnerability, often implying a lack of resources necessary for basic survival or social participation. The proverb specifically focuses on the social consequences of being in such a state, where one's material condition dictates the response (or lack thereof) from their social circle.
* **Pursueth (Hebrew, _râdaph'_):** This verb (H7291) typically means "to run after," "chase," or "pursue," often with hostile intent. However, in this context, when combined with "words," it conveys the idea of the poor person desperately trying to catch up with, appeal to, or seek out those who have abandoned him. It paints a picture of persistent, perhaps even desperate, attempts to communicate and reconnect, highlighting the poor person's active, yet ultimately fruitless, efforts to restore lost relationships or gain assistance.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"All the brethren of the poor do hate him":** This opening clause sets a stark tone, immediately highlighting the painful reality that even those bound by familial ties—"brethren" (H251, 'âch), signifying close relatives or fellow countrymen—turn away from the impoverished. As discussed in the Key Word Analysis, "hate" (H8130, sânêʼ) here implies shunning, neglect, or active disassociation, rather than necessarily intense malice. It points to a practical abandonment driven by a desire to avoid the perceived burden or social stigma associated with poverty.
* **"how much more do his friends go far from him?":** This rhetorical question intensifies the previous statement, employing an argument from the lesser to the greater. If even family members distance themselves, how much more will mere "friends" (H4828, mêrêaʻ), who are typically less obligated, "go far" (H7368, râchaq) from him? This emphasizes the precariousness of friendships based on convenience or status, revealing their superficiality when adversity strikes. The friends actively remove themselves, physically or emotionally, from the poor individual.
* **"he pursueth [them with] words, [yet] they [are] wanting [to him].":** This final clause vividly portrays the poor person's desperate attempts to engage with those who have abandoned him. "He pursueth [them with] words" (H7291, râdaph, and H561, 'êmer) means he actively seeks them out, pleading, appealing, or trying to communicate his needs. However, his efforts are met with emptiness: "yet they are wanting to him." The Hebrew for "wanting" (H369, 'ayin, meaning "nothing" or "non-existent") powerfully conveys that his pleas are ignored, his efforts are futile, and those he seeks are simply "not there" for him, offering no help, comfort, or presence.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 19:7 employs several literary devices to convey its poignant message. The most prominent is **Hyperbole**, particularly in the phrase "All the brethren of the poor do hate him." While not every single relative would literally harbor intense hatred, the exaggeration effectively communicates the overwhelming and pervasive nature of social rejection and abandonment experienced by the poor. This hyperbole serves to underscore the severity of their isolation. The verse also utilizes **Parallelism**, specifically **Synthetic Parallelism**, where the second line expands upon or intensifies the thought of the first: "All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him?" The rhetorical question "how much more" amplifies the initial observation, moving from the expected support of family to the even less reliable support of friends. Finally, there is a strong element of **Irony** in the verse. One would naturally expect family and friends to be sources of support and comfort in times of need. The proverb subverts this expectation, revealing the tragic irony that those who should be closest are often the very ones who abandon the struggling individual, leaving them utterly alone.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 19:7 offers a stark, realistic picture of human brokenness and the fallen nature of relationships in a world marred by sin. It highlights the pervasive self-interest that often trumps compassion, revealing how material circumstances can dictate social bonds. The proverb implicitly challenges the reader to consider where true security and lasting relationships are found, pointing away from the fickle nature of human alliances and towards a more stable foundation. Theologically, it underscores the biblical emphasis on God's unique concern for the vulnerable and marginalized, standing in stark contrast to the human neglect depicted. While humans may abandon the poor, God's character is consistently portrayed as one who hears the cry of the needy and acts on their behalf.

* [Proverbs 14:20](/proverbs/14-20 "Proverbs 14:20 - The Poor are Hated by Neighbors")
* [Psalm 34:6](/psalms/34-6 "Psalm 34:6 - The Poor Cry Out to God")
* [James 2:15-16](/james/2-15 "James 2:15-16 - Faith Without Works is Dead")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 19:7 serves as a powerful mirror, inviting us to examine our own hearts and actions concerning those in need. It challenges the superficiality that can creep into our relationships, where our willingness to engage with others might be subtly influenced by their social standing or perceived utility. For followers of Christ, this proverb is a poignant reminder of the call to radical compassion and unconditional love. Unlike the fair-weather friends described, we are called to be steadfast companions to the marginalized, to actively seek out and serve those whom society may neglect or abandon. It prompts us to move beyond mere pity to practical action, embodying the self-sacrificial love that characterizes Christ, ensuring that no one's pleas for help go unanswered by us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I be guilty of distancing myself from those in need, either consciously or unconsciously?**
* **How can I cultivate relationships that are rooted in genuine love and loyalty, rather than convenience or perceived benefit?**
* **What practical steps can I take to ensure that the "words" of those who are struggling do not go "wanting" in my sphere of influence?**
* **How does this proverb challenge my understanding of true friendship and familial responsibility within a Christian context?**

### FAQ
**Does "hate" in Proverbs 19:7 mean active malice or something else?**
Answer: In this context, the Hebrew word for "hate" (H8130, _sânêʼ_) often carries a broader meaning than intense emotional malice. While it can imply strong aversion, here it primarily signifies treating with disdain, neglecting, shunning, or actively distancing oneself from someone. It describes a practical rejection or a lack of concern that results in abandonment, rather than necessarily a passionate, hostile emotion. It highlights the social ostracization and indifference faced by the poor.

**How does this proverb relate to the broader biblical teaching on caring for the poor?**
Answer: Proverbs 19:7 presents a realistic, albeit harsh, observation of human behavior, contrasting sharply with the divine ideal. While human society often neglects or abandons the poor, the Old Testament Law (e.g., [Deuteronomy 15:7-8](/deuteronomy/15-7 "Deuteronomy 15:7-8 - Lending to the Poor")) and prophetic tradition (e.g., [Isaiah 58:6-7](/isaiah/58-6 "Isaiah 58:6-7 - True Fasting and Justice")) consistently command compassion and justice for the vulnerable. The proverb serves as a lament over the failure of humanity to live up to God's standards, thereby underscoring the necessity of divine intervention and the call for God's people to embody His character by caring for the marginalized.

**What does "they are wanting to him" mean in this verse?**
Answer: The phrase "they are wanting to him" translates the Hebrew 'ayin (H369), which means "nothing," "non-existent," or "absent." It powerfully conveys that when the poor individual seeks out those who should support him, they are simply "not there" for him. His desperate pleas and attempts to communicate are met with emptiness; he receives no help, no comfort, and no presence from those he pursues. It underscores the complete and utter abandonment he experiences.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 19:7, with its stark depiction of abandonment and isolation, finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus. While human friends and family may forsake the poor and needy, Jesus Christ embodies the ultimate friend who never abandons. He is the one who, though rich, became poor for our sake ([2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's Poverty for Our Sake")), identifying fully with the marginalized and outcast. Unlike the friends who "go far from him," Jesus drew near to the sick, the sinners, and the socially ostracized, demonstrating a radical, unconditional love. His life was a constant pursuit of those "wanting" in spiritual and physical sustenance, offering them the living "words" of eternal life ([John 6:68](/john/6-68 "John 6:68 - Words of Eternal Life")). Ultimately, on the cross, Jesus experienced the ultimate abandonment, crying out, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" ([Matthew 27:46](/matthew/27-46 "Matthew 27:46 - Jesus' Cry of Dereliction")), bearing the full weight of human sin and isolation so that those who trust in Him would never be truly abandoned ([Hebrews 13:5](/hebrews/13-5 "Hebrews 13:5 - God Will Never Leave You")). He is the faithful friend and brother who sticks closer than any, offering an enduring relationship and unwavering support that stands in stark contrast to the fickle human bonds described in Proverbs 19:7.

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 19:4

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

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 3:18

My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.

Proverbs 18:23

¶ The poor useth intreaties; but the rich answereth roughly.

James 2:15

If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,

James 2:16

And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be [ye] warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what [doth it] profit?

Psalms 38:11

My lovers and my friends stand aloof from my sore; and my kinsmen stand afar off.