Proverbs 28:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Proverbs 28:27
27 He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse.
Chapter Context
Proverbs 28 is a wisdom sayings chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of holiness, hope, obedience. 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 foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 28:27
27 He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse.
Analysis
He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack (נוֹתֵן לָרָשׁ אֵין מַחְסוֹר, noten larash ein machsor)—נָתַן (natan, 'to give') to the רָשׁ (rash, 'poor, destitute') results in אֵין מַחְסוֹר (ein machsor, 'no lack, no want'). This paradox pervades Scripture: giving produces abundance (Proverbs 11:24-25, 19:17, 22:9). Jesus taught: 'Give, and it shall be given unto you' (Luke 6:38). Paul: 'He which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully' (2 Corinthians 9:6).
But he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse (וּמַעְלִים עֵינָיו רַב־מְאֵרוֹת, uma'lim einav rav-me'erot)—עָלַם (alam, 'to hide, conceal') the עַיִן (ayin, 'eyes') from the poor's plight brings רַב (rav, 'many, abundant') מְאֵרָה (me'erah, 'curses, oaths'). Refusing to see need doesn't eliminate it—it brings judgment. The rich man ignored Lazarus at his gate and suffered eternally (Luke 16:19-31). James 2:15-16 condemns empty words without material help.
Historical Context
Ancient Israel's law commanded care for the poor: leaving gleanings (Leviticus 19:9-10), canceling debts (Deuteronomy 15:1-11), protecting widows and orphans (Deuteronomy 24:17-22). The prophets thundered against those who exploited or ignored the poor (Amos 5:11-12, Isaiah 58:6-7). Early Christians practiced radical generosity (Acts 2:44-45, 4:32-37).
Reflection
- Who are the 'poor' in your sphere—and are you giving generously or 'hiding your eyes'?
- How has God proven this principle true in your life when you've given sacrificially?
- What would 'not hiding your eyes' look like practically in your context this week?
Cross-References
- Curse: Proverbs 11:26
- Parallel theme: Proverbs 11:24, 19:17, 22:9, Deuteronomy 15:7, 15:10