Proverbs 3:27
Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it.
Original Language Analysis
אַל
H408
אַל
Strong's:
H408
Word #:
1 of 8
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
תִּמְנַע
Withhold
H4513
תִּמְנַע
Withhold
Strong's:
H4513
Word #:
2 of 8
to debar (negatively or positively) from benefit or injury
ט֥וֹב
not good
H2896
ט֥וֹב
not good
Strong's:
H2896
Word #:
3 of 8
good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good
מִבְּעָלָ֑יו
from them to whom it is due
H1167
מִבְּעָלָ֑יו
from them to whom it is due
Strong's:
H1167
Word #:
4 of 8
a master; hence, a husband, or (figuratively) owner (often used with another noun in modifications of this latter sense)
בִּהְי֨וֹת
H1961
בִּהְי֨וֹת
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
5 of 8
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
לְאֵ֖ל
when it is in the power
H410
לְאֵ֖ל
when it is in the power
Strong's:
H410
Word #:
6 of 8
strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)
Cross References
Galatians 6:10As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.Romans 13:7Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.James 5:4Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth.Genesis 31:29It is in the power of my hand to do you hurt: but the God of your father spake unto me yesternight, saying, Take thou heed that thou speak not to Jacob either good or bad.
Historical Context
Israel's law prescribed specific provisions for the poor (gleaning rights, Sabbath year releases, Jubilee). Personal generosity complemented systemic justice, both grounded in remembering God's redemptive grace to Israel.
Questions for Reflection
- What resources has God entrusted to you that could benefit others in need?
- How can you move from viewing generosity as optional to seeing it as obligation?
Analysis & Commentary
Generosity is presented as a matter of justice, not optional benevolence. The phrase 'when it is in the power of thine hand' indicates moral obligation wherever ability exists. This reflects the image of God in humanity—we represent Him to those in need. Hoarding resources denies our stewardship role and violates the second great commandment.