Proverbs 22:7

7 The ¹rich rules over the poor, And the borrower becomes the lender's slave.

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 Thorns and snares are in the way of the perverse; He who guards himself will be far from them.

6 Train up a child in the way he should go, Even when he is old he will not depart from it.

7 The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower becomes the lender's slave.

8 He who sows iniquity will reap vanity, And the rod of his fury will perish.

9 He who is generous will be blessed, For he gives some of his food to the poor.

Cross References

• 1. Proverbs 18:23; James 2:6