Proverbs 22:4
By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life.
Original Language Analysis
עֵ֣קֶב
By
H6118
עֵ֣קֶב
By
Strong's:
H6118
Word #:
1 of 7
a heel, i.e., (figuratively) the last of anything (used adverbially, for ever); also result, i.e., compensation; and so (adverb with preposition or re
עֲ֭נָוָה
humility
H6038
עֲ֭נָוָה
humility
Strong's:
H6038
Word #:
2 of 7
condescension, human and subjective (modesty), or divine and objective (clemency)
יִרְאַ֣ת
and the fear
H3374
יִרְאַ֣ת
and the fear
Strong's:
H3374
Word #:
3 of 7
fear (also used as infinitive); morally, reverence
יְהוָ֑ה
of the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֑ה
of the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
4 of 7
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Cross References
Matthew 6:33But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.James 4:10Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.Proverbs 21:21He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour.Isaiah 57:15For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.Proverbs 3:16Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour.James 4:6But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.Isaiah 33:6And wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, and strength of salvation: the fear of the LORD is his treasure.1 Timothy 4:8For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.
Historical Context
The Mosaic covenant promised material blessing for obedience (Deuteronomy 28). While the New Covenant emphasizes spiritual riches, the principle remains that fearing God leads to flourishing.
Questions for Reflection
- How do humility and fear of the LORD produce true riches in your life?
- What spiritual blessings have you received that surpass material prosperity?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Humility and fear of the LORD bring riches, honor, and life—the comprehensive blessings of covenant faithfulness. This doesn't promise prosperity theology but shows that godliness generally conduces to wellbeing. True riches include spiritual blessings infinitely surpassing material wealth.