Proverbs 22:7

7 The rich over the poor ruleth, And a servant [is] the borrower to 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 -- snares [are] in the way of the perverse, Whoso is keeping his soul is far from them.

6 Give instruction to a youth about his way, Even when he is old he turneth not from it.

7 The rich over the poor ruleth, And a servant [is] the borrower to the lender.

8 Whoso is sowing perverseness reapeth sorrow, And the rod of his anger weareth out.

9 The good of eye -- he is blessed, For he hath given of his bread to the poor.