Proverbs 21:26
He coveteth greedily all the day long: but the righteous giveth and spareth not.
Original Language Analysis
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
1 of 8
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
הַ֭יּוֹם
all the day
H3117
הַ֭יּוֹם
all the day
Strong's:
H3117
Word #:
2 of 8
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
תַאֲוָ֑ה
greedily
H8378
תַאֲוָ֑ה
greedily
Strong's:
H8378
Word #:
4 of 8
a longing; by implication, a delight (subjectively, satisfaction, objectively, a charm)
יִ֝תֵּ֗ן
giveth
H5414
יִ֝תֵּ֗ן
giveth
Strong's:
H5414
Word #:
6 of 8
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
Cross References
Psalms 37:26He is ever merciful, and lendeth; and his seed is blessed.Psalms 112:9He hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor; his righteousness endureth for ever; his horn shall be exalted with honour.Ephesians 4:28Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.
Historical Context
Israel's law included provisions for systematic generosity—tithes, gleaning rights, Jubilee debt forgiveness. Righteousness expressed itself through economic justice and generosity.
Questions for Reflection
- Does your use of money reflect covetous hoarding or righteous generosity?
- What specific acts of generosity is God calling you to that you're resisting?
Analysis & Commentary
The wicked 'coveteth greedily all the day long'—constantly consumed by desire for more. By contrast, 'the righteous giveth and spareth not'—consistently generous without holding back. These opposite orientations reveal different heart conditions. The wicked person operates from scarcity mentality and selfish grasping; the righteous from abundance consciousness and generous trust in God's provision. Covetousness violates the tenth commandment and demonstrates idolatry—making material things ultimate. Generosity reflects God's character and trust in His promises. The righteous person gives freely because he understands that everything belongs to God and that generosity produces blessing. Conversion transforms economic behavior from hoarding to stewardship and from grasping to giving.