Proverbs 19:4 kjv

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

Proverbs 19:4 nkjv

Wealth makes many friends, But the poor is separated from his friend.

Proverbs 19:4 niv

Wealth attracts many friends, but even the closest friend of the poor person deserts them.

Proverbs 19:4 esv

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

Proverbs 19:4 nlt

Wealth makes many "friends";
poverty drives them all away.

Proverbs 19 verses

Proverbs 19 4 Meaning

Proverbs 19:4 observes a harsh social reality: prosperity often attracts a multitude of companions, while poverty tends to isolate an individual, separating them from even their potential acquaintances or neighbors. This proverb does not endorse this reality but rather describes the opportunistic nature of some human relationships, highlighting that many connections are conditional, based on perceived advantage or wealth, rather than genuine affection or commitment.

Proverbs 19 4 Context

Proverbs 19:4 is part of a collection of pithy, instructional statements found in the book of Proverbs, specifically within the section often attributed to Solomon (Prov 10-22). The primary purpose of Proverbs is to impart practical wisdom for living a righteous and God-honoring life. This particular verse belongs to a series of proverbs that make keen observations about social dynamics, particularly the effects of wealth and poverty on one's standing and relationships. It describes a common human failing: people are often drawn to wealth and power, while those lacking resources may find themselves neglected or abandoned. This observation serves as a general truth about societal tendencies, rather than a moral command or an endorsement of such behavior. It contributes to the overall theme of understanding human nature and discerning true value, often contrasting the ephemeral nature of material possessions with enduring virtues like integrity and true wisdom.

Proverbs 19 4 Word analysis

• Wealth (Hebrew: ה֫וֹן, hon): Refers to material possessions, riches, substance, or sufficiency. It signifies abundant resources, which are typically associated with security and influence in ancient societies.
• maketh (Hebrew: יֹסִיף, yosif from יָסַף, yasaf): Literally means "adds" or "increases." This verb denotes an active process where wealth's presence naturally accrues companions. It's a statement of effect—wealth causes this increase.
• many (Hebrew: רַבִּים, rabbim): Signifies a great number, abundance, or multitude. It emphasizes the sheer quantity of friends attracted by wealth, hinting at their superficiality by sheer volume rather than quality.
• friends (Hebrew: רֵעִים, re'im from רֵעַ, re'a): Can mean friend, companion, associate, or even neighbor. In this context, given the following clause, it implies acquaintances who align themselves with the wealthy, suggesting less genuine intimacy and more transactional association. The repeated use of re'a highlights the painful irony in the second part of the verse.
• but (Hebrew: וְ-, v- (conjunction): "and," but serves as a strong adversative here, indicating a stark contrast.
• the poor (Hebrew: דָּל, dal): Refers to someone weak, needy, or lacking. It describes a state of destitution or vulnerability, placing the individual at a societal disadvantage.
• is separated (Hebrew: נִפְרָד, nifrad from פָּרַד, parad): Means "is estranged," "is divided," or "is cut off." This is a passive verb, implying an action done to the poor person by circumstances or by others. It signifies isolation, alienation, or being abandoned.
• from his neighbour (Hebrew: מֵרֵעֵ֫הוּ, mere'ehu from רֵעַ, re'a): Again, "from his friend" or "from his companion." This specific choice of word makes the contrast even sharper: while wealth attracts many companions (re'im), poverty causes one to be separated from one's own companion (re'ehu). The same term is used to underline the cruel irony: the very type of social connection the rich accumulate, the poor lose.

Words-group by words-group analysis:

• "Wealth maketh many friends": This phrase paints a picture of magnetism. Wealth does not merely attract friends; it produces or multiplies them. These are not necessarily true friends but rather hangers-on, associates who benefit from the wealthy person's resources or influence. It speaks to the human tendency to flock towards perceived advantage.
• "but the poor is separated from his neighbour": This forms a powerful antithesis. The same word (re'a) used for "friends" is now used for "neighbour/companion," emphasizing the stark social consequence. Poverty doesn't just mean a lack of resources; it often means a painful social isolation, even from those who should naturally be close or helpful. The poor individual becomes an outcast, shunned by those who could potentially offer aid or companionship, perhaps due to the burden they represent or fear of being asked for help.

Proverbs 19 4 Bonus section

This proverb serves as a vital insight for understanding fallen human nature, emphasizing a social pathology rather than endorsing it. It implicitly challenges believers to pursue a different ethic of relationships, one based on Christ's example of valuing the marginalized (Luke 14:13) and discerning true friends from fair-weather acquaintances. The observation reflects a direct consequence of a world swayed by the pursuit of mammon rather than genuine care and communal responsibility. It stands as a contrast to biblical principles of hospitality, charity, and steadfast loyalty that transcend economic divides, showcasing the spiritual emptiness that often accompanies reliance on worldly wealth.

Proverbs 19 4 Commentary

Proverbs 19:4 presents a pragmatic, yet often disheartening, observation about human relationships and the pervasive influence of material possessions. It highlights that many friendships in the world are not forged in true affection or mutual regard but are conditional, tied to a person's financial standing. The proverb notes how readily people gravitate towards wealth, often resulting in a superficial "circle of friends" for the rich. Conversely, it starkly reveals the loneliness and abandonment experienced by the poor, who are often ostracized even by those who might otherwise be expected to show compassion or kinship. This verse serves as a realistic portrayal of human self-interest and a warning against valuing friendships based on worldly gain. It prompts reflection on the true nature of companionship and implicitly points to a higher standard of relationships found in divine wisdom and selfless love, which are not dictated by economic status.