Proverbs 22:4

¶ By humility [and] the fear of the LORD [are] riches, and honour, and life.

By {H6118} humility {H6038} and the fear {H3374} of the LORD {H3068} are riches {H6239}, and honour {H3519}, and life {H2416}.

The reward for humility is fear of ADONAI, along with wealth, honor and life.

The rewards of humility and the fear of the LORD are wealth and honor and life.

The reward of humility and the fear of Jehovah Isriches, and honor, and life.

Proverbs 22:4 reveals a profound principle of divine blessing, linking spiritual virtues directly to tangible rewards. It states that true wealth, respect, and a meaningful existence are outcomes of a heart devoted to God through humility and reverence.

Historical and Cultural Context

As part of the biblical wisdom literature, the Book of Proverbs often presents observations about life and moral instruction, typically attributed to King Solomon. In ancient Israel, prosperity, honor, and a long life were often understood as direct blessings from God, signifying His favor upon the righteous. The concept of the "fear of the LORD" (yir'at Yahweh) in this context is not terror, but a deep, reverential awe and submission to God's will, recognizing His ultimate authority and holiness. This reverence was seen as the foundation for all true wisdom and moral living, as highlighted in Proverbs 1:7 and Proverbs 9:10.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Humility (עֲנָוָה, anavah): This refers to a disposition of lowliness and dependence on God, rather than self-exaltation. It's the opposite of pride, which the Proverbs consistently condemn (Proverbs 16:18). Humility before God acknowledges His sovereignty and our rightful place as His creation.
  • Fear of the LORD (יִרְאַת יְהוָה, yir'at Yahweh): More than just respect, it's a profound awe that leads to obedience and a desire to please God. This spiritual foundation is consistently presented as the source of true wisdom and discernment throughout Proverbs.
  • Divine Blessings: The verse promises "riches, and honour, and life." While these can include material blessings, they encompass much more. "Riches" can mean spiritual abundance and contentment; "honour" refers to a good reputation and respect from both God and people (Proverbs 15:33); and "life" (chayyim) signifies a full, vibrant, and abundant existence, both in terms of longevity and spiritual vitality, often seen as a direct gift from God (Proverbs 3:16).

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "humility," anavah, implies a gentle, meek, and modest spirit that is teachable and submissive to God. This isn't self-deprecating but rather a realistic assessment of one's place in relation to the Almighty. The "fear of the LORD" (yir'at Yahweh) is a recurring motif in wisdom literature, signifying a reverence that informs all aspects of life, leading to ethical behavior and a deep understanding of divine principles. The blessings listed—osher (riches), kavod (honour/glory), and chayyim (life/lives)—are comprehensive terms for well-being and prosperity in the fullest sense.

Practical Application

Proverbs 22:4 offers timeless wisdom for how to live a truly blessed life. It teaches that focusing on internal spiritual qualities—humility before God and a reverent obedience to His commands—is the pathway to genuine fulfillment. This isn't a transactional formula for material gain, but a principle that cultivating a right relationship with God ultimately yields a life rich in meaning, character, and divine favor. It encourages believers to prioritize spiritual growth over worldly pursuits, trusting that God will provide true and lasting "riches, and honour, and life" in ways that far exceed mere earthly possessions.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Matthew 6:33

    But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

  • James 4:10

    Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.

  • Psalms 34:9

    O fear the LORD, ye his saints: for [there is] no want to them that fear him.

  • Psalms 34:10

    The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they that seek the LORD shall not want any good [thing].

  • Proverbs 21:21

    ¶ He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour.

  • Psalms 112:1

    ¶ Praise ye the LORD. Blessed [is] the man [that] feareth the LORD, [that] delighteth greatly in his commandments.

  • Psalms 112:3

    Wealth and riches [shall be] in his house: and his righteousness endureth for ever.

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