Proverbs 19:7 meaning

When considering human relationships, it is often observed that wealth can attract many so-called friends, while poverty can lead to isolation. This dynamic underscores a harsh reality: even one’s kin may abandon them in times of need. Such sentiments express the notion that people tend to evaluate relationships based on material circumstances rather than personal worth or character. This reflects a broader societal tendency to gravitate towards those who appear prosperous while shunning those who are less fortunate. The point isn't merely to highlight this social phenomenon but to encourage awareness and reflection on what true friendship and loyalty should entail.

According to the wisdom recorded, it is indicated that “All the brethren of the poor do hate him; even his own relatives are far from him.” This dramatic portrayal emphasizes that not just friends but even family may distance themselves from those in need. The poor, in their plight, may incessantly seek connection, only to encounter rejection. In recognizing this truth, one is urged to cultivate genuine relationships grounded in compassion, rather than transient alliances based on wealth or status. True wisdom, indeed, lies in developing sincere connections that transcend material circumstances, as expressed in the verse: “All the brothers of a poor man hate him; how much more do his friends abandon him!” (Proverbs 19:7, NASB95).