Proverbs 22:7

7 The rich will rule over the poor, and servants will lend to their own masters.

Proverbs 22:7 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 22:7

The rich ruleth over the poor
Usurps a dominion over them, and exercises it in a rigorous, oppressive, and tyrannical manner; otherwise they are generally the rich that rule, and if they rule well, in a lawful, gentle, and righteous manner, it is commendable; and the borrower [is] servant to the lender;
being under obligation to him, he is forced to be subject to him, and comply with his humours, and do and say as he would have him; it was a happiness promised to the Israelites, that they should lend to many nations, but not borrow, ( Deuteronomy 15:6 ) ; compare with this ( Nehemiah 5:4 Nehemiah 5:5 ) .

Proverbs 22:7 In-Context

5 Thistles and snares are in perverse ways; but he that keeps his soul will refrain from them.
7 The rich will rule over the poor, and servants will lend to their own masters.
8 He that sows wickedness shall reap troubles; and shall fully receive the punishment of his deeds. God loves a cheerful and liberal man; but shall fully prove the folly of his works.
9 He that has pity on the poor shall himself be maintained; for he has given of his own bread to the poor. He that gives liberally secures victory an honour; but he takes away the life of them that posses .

The Brenton translation of the Septuagint is in the public domain.