Proverbs 17:5 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 17:5 mean?

Proverbs 17:5 warns that mocking people who are poor is an insult to God, who made everyone, and that taking pleasure in someone else's trouble will not go unpunished. The verse connects how people treat the vulnerable with their attitude toward God Himself.

This proverb is part of a collection of wise sayings, likely written by Solomon, addressed to anyone seeking wisdom for living well. The verse highlights that showing contempt for those in need is not just a social wrong but a spiritual offense, because God is the Creator ("Maker") of all. It also stresses that finding joy in another person's hardship is serious enough to bring consequences.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 17:5

• "mocketh" (לָעֵג, la‘ēg): This word means to ridicule or make fun of. In this context, it points to an attitude of scorn or belittling, not just playful teasing.
• "poor" (רָשׁ, rāsh): This word refers to someone who is needy or lacking resources. The focus is on vulnerability and dependence.
• "reproacheth" (חֵרֵף, ḥērēf): This means to insult or treat with contempt. The verse links this action directly to God, showing that mistreating the poor is seen as an offense against their Creator.
• "Maker" (עֹשֵׂהוּ, ‘ōsēhū): This word means "the one who made him." It emphasizes that God is the Creator of both the poor and the rich, making all people equal in origin and value.
• "calamities" (אֵיד, ’ēd): This word refers to disaster or misfortune. The verse warns against finding satisfaction in someone else's suffering.

Why Proverbs 17:5 matters

• Proverbs 17:5 clears up the idea that mistreating or mocking the poor is just a social issue; the verse makes it clear that it is also a spiritual matter, as it is an insult to God Himself.
• The proverb emphasizes personal responsibility for one's attitude toward others, especially the vulnerable, and warns that joy in another's suffering is not overlooked by God.
• This verse connects to the broader themes in Proverbs about justice, compassion, and the importance of humility before God and others.