Proverbs 19:22

¶ The desire of a man [is] his kindness: and a poor man [is] better than a liar.

The desire {H8378} of a man {H120} is his kindness {H2617}: and a poor man {H7326} is better {H2896} than {H376} a liar {H3577}.

A man's lust is his shame, and a poor man is better than a liar.

The desire of a man is loving devotion; better to be poor than a liar.

That which maketh a man to be desired is his kindness; And a poor man is better than a liar.

Commentary

Context of Proverbs 19:22

Proverbs is a book of wisdom, offering practical guidance for living a righteous and flourishing life. This particular verse, like many others in the collection, presents a sharp contrast between virtues and vices, and between true value and superficial appearances. It speaks directly to the nature of human character and what truly makes a person admirable in the eyes of God and discerning individuals. The book frequently emphasizes that inner moral qualities far outweigh external circumstances or material possessions, a theme clearly present here.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Value of True Kindness and Loyalty: The first part of the verse, "The desire of a man [is] his kindness," speaks to what is truly admirable and sought after in a person. It suggests that a man's most desirable attribute, or what gives him genuine worth, is his consistent demonstration of kindness, loyalty, and faithfulness. This isn't about fleeting desires but about intrinsic character.
  • Integrity Over Deceit: The second part, "and a poor man [is] better than a liar," starkly contrasts two conditions. It asserts that even poverty, a condition often viewed negatively, is preferable to being a liar. This highlights the supreme importance of truthfulness and integrity over any material gain or social advantage that might be achieved through deceit.
  • Character Over Circumstance: Overall, the verse underscores that a person's true worth is defined by their moral character—their kindness, loyalty, and honesty—rather than their wealth or social standing. It challenges the common human tendency to judge by outward appearances.

Linguistic Insights

The key to understanding the first clause lies in the Hebrew word חֶסֶד (chesed), translated here as "kindness" but also as "desire" in the KJV. Chesed is a rich theological term that encompasses concepts of steadfast love, loyal love, mercy, faithfulness, and covenant loyalty. So, "The desire of a man [is] his kindness" can also be understood as "What is desired in a man is his loyal love" or "A man's worth is his faithfulness." This deeper meaning emphasizes not just an act of kindness, but a deep-seated commitment to loyal, compassionate behavior.

Practical Application

Proverbs 19:22 encourages us to evaluate ourselves and others based on character, not external factors. It calls us to:

  • Cultivate Inner Virtues: Prioritize developing a character marked by genuine kindness, loyalty, and faithfulness. These qualities are far more valuable than wealth, status, or fleeting popularity.
  • Uphold Honesty at All Costs: The verse serves as a powerful reminder that truthfulness and integrity are paramount. It is better to be in a difficult circumstance (like poverty) while maintaining honesty than to prosper through deceit. This aligns with other biblical teachings that condemn falsehood, such as Proverbs 12:22, which states, "Lying lips are abomination to the LORD."
  • Seek True Worth: Understand that true worth is not found in what one possesses but in who one is. A person known for their kindness and honesty, even if they lack material wealth, possesses a far greater treasure and reputation than one who is rich but deceitful. Proverbs 28:6 similarly states, "Better is the poor that walketh in his uprightness, than he that is perverse in his ways, though he be rich."
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Cross-References

  • Mark 14:6 (4 votes)

    And Jesus said, Let her alone; why trouble ye her? she hath wrought a good work on me.

  • Mark 14:8 (4 votes)

    She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying.

  • 2 Corinthians 8:12 (4 votes)

    For if there be first a willing mind, [it is] accepted according to that a man hath, [and] not according to that he hath not.

  • Proverbs 19:1 (4 votes)

    ¶ Better [is] the poor that walketh in his integrity, than [he that is] perverse in his lips, and is a fool.

  • 2 Chronicles 6:8 (3 votes)

    But the LORD said to David my father, Forasmuch as it was in thine heart to build an house for my name, thou didst well in that it was in thine heart:

  • Mark 12:41 (3 votes)

    ¶ And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that were rich cast in much.

  • Mark 12:44 (3 votes)

    For all [they] did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, [even] all her living.