Proverbs 28:22
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Proverbs 28:22
22 He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him.
Chapter Context
Proverbs 28 is a wisdom sayings chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of judgment, discipleship, faith. Written during primarily Solomon's reign (c. 970-930 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature was common in royal courts for training officials.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-28: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Proverbs and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Proverbs 28:22
22 He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him.
Analysis
He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye (נִבְהָל לְהוֹן אִישׁ עַיִן רָע, nivhal lehon ish ayin ra)—נִבְהָל (nivhal, 'hastening, hurrying') toward הוֹן (hon, 'wealth, riches') reveals עַיִן רָע (ayin ra, 'evil eye'), a Hebrew idiom for stinginess, envy, and greed. Jesus warns against this 'evil eye' (Matthew 6:22-23, 20:15). The greedy person's vision is distorted—seeing others as competition, God's gifts as insufficient.
And considereth not that poverty shall come upon him (וְלֹא־יֵדַע כִּי־חֶסֶר יְבֹאֶנּוּ, velo-yeda ki-cheser yevo'ennu)—יָדַע (yada, 'to know, understand') is negated: he does not know that חֶסֶר (cheser, 'want, lack, poverty') approaches. Proverbs repeatedly warns that greed leads to poverty (Proverbs 11:24, 13:11). 'He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver' (Ecclesiastes 5:10); the insatiable appetite for more guarantees eventual loss.
Historical Context
First-century Palestine saw dramatic wealth disparities, with wealthy landowners exploiting peasant farmers. Jesus's parables frequently address greed (Luke 12:13-21, the rich fool; Luke 16:19-31, the rich man and Lazarus). Paul commands contentment: 'Having food and raiment let us be therewith content' (1 Timothy 6:8).
Reflection
- How can you recognize whether you have an 'evil eye'—a greedy, envious disposition?
- What warning signs indicate you're 'hastening to be rich' rather than trusting God's provision?
- Where has greed paradoxically led to poverty in your life—relational, spiritual, or even material?
Cross-References
- Evil: Proverbs 23:6
- Parallel theme: Proverbs 28:20, 1 Timothy 6:9