Proverbs 22:7

7 The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.

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; the cautious will keep far from them.

6 Train children in the right way, and when old, they will not stray.

7 The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.

8 Whoever sows injustice will reap calamity, and the rod of anger will fail.

9 Those who are generous are blessed, for they share their bread with the poor.