Proverbs 15:6
In the house of the righteous is much treasure: but in the revenues of the wicked is trouble.
Original Language Analysis
בֵּ֣ית
In the house
H1004
בֵּ֣ית
In the house
Strong's:
H1004
Word #:
1 of 7
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
רָ֑ב
is much
H7227
רָ֑ב
is much
Strong's:
H7227
Word #:
4 of 7
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
וּבִתְבוּאַ֖ת
but in the revenues
H8393
וּבִתְבוּאַ֖ת
but in the revenues
Strong's:
H8393
Word #:
5 of 7
income, i.e., produce (literally or figuratively)
Cross References
Proverbs 8:21That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures.Proverbs 21:20There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up.Proverbs 10:22The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.Psalms 112:3Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his righteousness endureth for ever.Proverbs 16:8Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues without right.Hebrews 11:26Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.Psalms 37:16A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked.Proverbs 15:16Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith.Proverbs 13:22A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.Ecclesiastes 4:6Better is an handful with quietness, than both the hands full with travail and vexation of spirit.
Historical Context
In agrarian Israel, 'treasure' could include stored grain, valuable goods, and livestock. However, Proverbs consistently teaches that ill-gotten wealth brings curses, while modest means with righteousness brings blessing.
Questions for Reflection
- What constitutes true 'treasure' in your life—material wealth or spiritual riches?
- Have you seen how pursuing wealth through unrighteous means brings trouble rather than satisfaction?
- How does this verse challenge contemporary definitions of success and prosperity?
Analysis & Commentary
The 'house of the righteous' contains 'much treasure,' while 'in the revenues of the wicked is trouble.' This isn't prosperity gospel—the 'treasure' (Hebrew 'chocen') includes spiritual riches, peace, and God's blessing. The wicked's 'revenue' (Hebrew 'tebuah'—increase/income) brings 'trouble' (Hebrew 'akar'—disturbance/misery). Reformed theology distinguishes between true and false prosperity. Riches gained through wickedness cannot satisfy and often bring additional problems. Godliness with contentment is great gain (1 Timothy 6:6). True wealth is found in righteousness and God's presence.