Proverbs 31:9

9 Speak out, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.

Proverbs 31:9 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 31:9

Open thy mouth, judge righteously
Having heard the cause, pronounce a righteous sentence; deliver it freely and impartially, with all readiness and boldness, not caring for the censures of wicked and unjust men; and plead the cause of the poor and needy;
who are oppressed by the rich, cannot plead for themselves, nor fee others to plead for them; do thou do it freely and faithfully. Thus as Lemuel's mother cautions him against women and wine, she advises him to do the duties of his office in administering impartial justice to all, and particularly in being the advocate and judge of the indigent and distressed.

Proverbs 31:9 In-Context

7 let them drink and forget their poverty, and remember their misery no more.

8 Speak out for those who cannot speak, for the rights of all the destitute.

9 Speak out, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.

10 A capable wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.

11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.