Proverbs 14:20 kjv

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

Proverbs 14:20 nkjv

The poor man is hated even by his own neighbor, But the rich has many friends.

Proverbs 14:20 niv

The poor are shunned even by their neighbors, but the rich have many friends.

Proverbs 14:20 esv

The poor is disliked even by his neighbor, but the rich has many friends.

Proverbs 14:20 nlt

The poor are despised even by their neighbors,
while the rich have many "friends."

Proverbs 14 verses

Proverbs 14 20 Meaning

Proverbs 14:20 presents a stark observation of human social behavior in the presence of wealth and poverty. It highlights the tendency for individuals, including one's own associates, to distance themselves from the poor due to perceived lack of benefit, and conversely, to flock to the wealthy for potential gain. This verse serves as a realistic depiction of societal attitudes, exposing the self-serving nature often inherent in human relationships outside of divine principles.

Proverbs 14 20 Context

Proverbs chapter 14 largely contrasts wisdom and folly, righteousness and wickedness, and their resulting outcomes in life. Verses like 14:19-21 particularly highlight observable social realities. Verse 20 fits within this broader context as an illustration of how a fallen world often operates: human relationships are frequently governed by self-interest and what one can gain or lose. This verse is not an endorsement but rather a shrewd observation of a social dynamic that contrasts with the righteousness and justice that God commands, especially regarding the poor. The historical and cultural context of ancient Israel and the Near East reveals societies where economic standing greatly influenced social status and treatment, often leading to the powerful exploiting the vulnerable.

Proverbs 14 20 Word analysis

• The poor: The Hebrew term is רָשׁ (rash), meaning "destitute," "needy," or "impoverished." It denotes one who lacks material possessions and economic security, often leaving them vulnerable and dependent.
• is hated: The Hebrew term is שָׂנוּא (sanu), meaning "to be hated," "to be despised," or "to be an object of hostility." This is a strong word, indicating deep-seated rejection, not merely disinterest. It implies active aversion.
• even of his own neighbour: The Hebrew word for "neighbour" is רֵעַ (rea), which can mean a friend, companion, associate, or close acquaintance. The phrase "even of his own neighbour" intensifies the poignancy of the poor person's abandonment. It suggests that even those who might be expected to show a degree of loyalty or aid them, perhaps due to proximity or communal ties, turn away, driven by a desire to avoid perceived burdens or a lack of personal benefit.
• but the rich: The Hebrew term is עָשִׁיר ('ashir), meaning "wealthy," "affluent," or "abundant in possessions."
• hath many friends: The Hebrew term here for "friends" is אֹהֲבִים ('ohevim), which literally means "lovers" or "those who love him." This choice of word is significant. It implies a kind of superficial "love" or affection, not based on genuine connection, but on what the wealthy individual can offer. These "friends" are those who are attracted to, seek out, and align themselves with the rich, primarily motivated by the prospect of financial benefit, social advantage, or shared material comforts. This contrasts sharply with the genuine and enduring friendship valued elsewhere in Proverbs.

Words-group analysis:

• "The poor is hated even of his own neighbour": This phrase highlights the tragic and ironic reality of social ostracism faced by the impoverished. It exposes the selfish nature of humanity, where even close connections can dissolve when there's no perceived gain, or even perceived burden, from the relationship. It's a statement of raw, painful abandonment.
• "but the rich hath many friends": This phrase contrasts directly with the former, revealing the magnet-like attraction of wealth. The "many friends" are drawn not to the person's character but to their resources. It speaks to the human tendency to seek relationships based on opportunism and advantage, reflecting the superficiality and transactional nature of many social bonds.

Proverbs 14 20 Bonus section

This proverb reflects a general principle of human fallenness and highlights the wisdom often found in observing and understanding societal realities, even harsh ones. It implicitly critiques the unjust social systems and personal selfishness that cause such imbalances, aligning with other biblical condemnations of oppression and partiality. The Lord Jesus Christ, through His life, taught and exemplified true compassion for the poor, contrasting sharply with the societal pattern described here (e.g., Lk 4:18-19, Mt 25:35-40). While the proverb states how things often are, the entire sweep of biblical teaching (law, prophets, wisdom, and especially Christ's teaching) instructs how things ought to be among God's people—a people marked by justice, mercy, and genuine love, especially towards the vulnerable and marginalized.

Proverbs 14 20 Commentary

Proverbs 14:20 serves as a powerful yet sorrowful observation of societal truth, illustrating how material wealth often dictates social acceptance and rejection. It is not a moral imperative or a command, but a descriptive reality check that unveils the corrupting influence of covetousness and self-interest on human relationships. The verse highlights the tragic loneliness of poverty, where even those who should offer support withdraw, and the superficial popularity of riches, where "friends" gather not for true camaraderie but for personal gain. This stark reality underscores the constant call in Scripture for believers to defy these worldly tendencies, extending genuine compassion to the poor (e.g., Gal 2:10, Heb 13:16) and valuing true righteousness over fleeting earthly advantage (e.g., Phil 3:7-8, 1 Tim 6:6-8). The truth presented here convicts the heart to evaluate one's own motivations in friendship and association.For example, one might observe in daily life how charitable endeavors often receive less support compared to opportunities offering personal status or gain, or how the jobless find fewer people willing to genuinely assist them than those seeking to connect with the successful for networking purposes.