Proverbs 14:31

Authorized King James Version

He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor.

Word-by-Word Analysis

עֹ֣שֵֽׁק

H6231

He that oppresseth

to press upon, i.e., oppress, defraud, violate, overflow

דָּ֭ל

H1800

the poor

properly, dangling, i.e., (by implication) weak or thin

חֵרֵ֣ף

H2778

reproacheth

to pull off, i.e., (by implication) to expose (as by stripping); specifically, to betroth (as if a surrender); figuratively, to carp at, i.e., defame;

עֹשֵׂ֑הוּ

H6213

his Maker

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

וּ֝מְכַבְּד֗וֹ

H3513

but he that honoureth

to be heavy, i.e., in a bad sense (burdensome, severe, dull) or in a good sense (numerous, rich, honorable); causatively, to make weighty (in the same

חֹנֵ֥ן

H2603

him hath mercy

properly, to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior; to favor, bestow; causatively to implore (i.e., move to favor by petition)

אֶבְיֽוֹן׃

H34

on the poor

destitute

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing mercy contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood mercy. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on mercy address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How might the original audience's understanding of mercy differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

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Topics

Wisdom