Proverbs 18:23 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 18:23 mean?

Proverbs 18:23 describes how a poor person often speaks with humility and pleading, while a rich person tends to respond in a harsh or blunt way. The verse highlights the contrast in how people of different social status interact, especially in situations where one is dependent on the other.

In this proverb, the writer observes real-life social dynamics: the poor, needing help, must ask with deference, while the rich, in a position of power, may answer without gentleness. The verse is not giving a command but simply describing a common pattern in human relationships, especially in the context of ancient Israelite society.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 18:23

• "poor" (רָשׁ, rash, H7326): This word refers to someone who is needy or lacking in resources, not just financially but in social standing as well. The use of this word sets up the power imbalance in the interaction.
• "useth" (דָּבַר, dabar, H1696): This verb means "to speak" or "to talk." Here, it suggests the act of making a request or plea, not just casual conversation.
• "intreaties" (תַּחֲנוּנִים, tachanunim, H8469): This word means "supplications" or "pleas for mercy." It emphasizes that the poor person is not just speaking, but earnestly begging or appealing.
• "rich" (עָשִׁיר, ashir, H6223): This word refers to someone with wealth or resources, highlighting the contrast with the poor.
• "answereth" (עָנָה, anah, H6030): This verb means "to answer" or "to respond." It shows the rich person's role in the exchange.
• "roughly" (עָז, az, H5794): This word means "harshly," "strongly," or "with severity." It suggests the rich person's response lacks gentleness or compassion.

Why Proverbs 18:23 matters

• Proverbs 18:23 clears up the idea that everyone is treated the same in social interactions; it points out that wealth and poverty often shape how people are spoken to and how they speak.
• The verse draws attention to the vulnerability of the poor, who must rely on the goodwill of others and often cannot afford to speak boldly.
• This proverb fits into a larger biblical theme about justice, compassion, and the dangers of pride or insensitivity that can come with wealth.