Proverbs 22:2
The rich and poor meet together: the LORD is the maker of them all.
Original Language Analysis
נִפְגָּ֑שׁוּ
meet together
H6298
נִפְגָּ֑שׁוּ
meet together
Strong's:
H6298
Word #:
3 of 6
to come in contact with, whether by accident or violence; figuratively, to concur
עֹשֵׂ֖ה
is the maker
H6213
עֹשֵׂ֖ה
is the maker
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
4 of 6
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
Cross References
Job 31:15Did not he that made me in the womb make him? and did not one fashion us in the womb?1 Samuel 2:7The LORD maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and lifteth up.Proverbs 14:31He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor.Proverbs 29:13The poor and the deceitful man meet together: the LORD lighteneth both their eyes.Job 34:19How much less to him that accepteth not the persons of princes, nor regardeth the rich more than the poor? for they all are the work of his hands.1 Corinthians 12:21And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.
Historical Context
Ancient societies were highly stratified economically. This proverb's assertion of common creation was countercultural, insisting that social hierarchy didn't erase fundamental equality before God.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you view all people as equally valuable image-bearers regardless of economic status?
- How should this truth shape your treatment of the poor and attitudes toward wealth?
- What are the social implications of affirming that God is maker of both rich and poor?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Rich and poor have commonality: 'the LORD is the maker of them all.' Despite economic disparities, all humans share equal status as God's creatures. The Hebrew 'asah' (maker/Creator) emphasizes God's sovereignty over all. This grounds human dignity and equality in creation, not in wealth or status. Reformed theology's doctrine of imago Dei insists that all people, regardless of economic position, bear God's image and deserve respect. This verse rebukes both pride in the wealthy and despair in the poor, and condemns economic oppression.