Proverbs 22:7

7 Rich people rule over those who are poor. Borrowers are slaves to lenders.

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 traps lie in the paths of evil people. But those who guard themselves stay far away from them.

6 Train a child in the way he should go. When he is old, he will not turn away from it.

7 Rich people rule over those who are poor. Borrowers are slaves to lenders.

8 Anyone who plants evil gathers a harvest of trouble. His power to beat others down will be destroyed.

9 Anyone who gives freely will be blessed. That's because he shares his food with those who are poor.