Proverbs 21:26 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 21:26 mean?

Proverbs 21:26 describes a person who is always wanting more and never satisfied, contrasted with a righteous person who is generous and gives freely without holding back. The verse highlights the difference between selfish desire and open-handed generosity.

In the book of Proverbs, these sayings are collected as wisdom for everyday life, often contrasting the ways of the wicked and the righteous. Here, the writer points out that while some people spend their whole day longing for things they do not have, the righteous are marked by their willingness to give, showing a life shaped by generosity rather than greed.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 21:26

• "Coveteth" (אָוָה, 'avah, H183) means to strongly desire or crave. The word suggests a deep, ongoing longing, not just a passing wish.
• "Greedily" (תַּאֲוָה, ta'avah, H8378) refers to an intense craving or lust, often for things that are not truly needed. This word emphasizes the consuming nature of the desire.
• "Righteous" (צַדִּיק, tsaddiq, H6662) describes someone who lives according to what is just and right, especially in their relationships with others. The contrast with the greedy person is sharp: the righteous is not focused on getting, but on giving.
• "Giveth" (נָתַן, natan, H5414) means to give or bestow. The sense here is of active, intentional generosity.
• "Spareth not" (חָסַךְ, chasak, H2820) means to withhold or keep back. The righteous person is described as not holding back in their giving, showing a full-hearted generosity.

Why Proverbs 21:26 matters

• This verse clears up the idea that wanting more is just a harmless feeling; it shows how constant craving can shape a person’s whole day and attitude.
• The proverb emphasizes that true righteousness is seen not just in avoiding wrong, but in actively giving to others without hesitation.
• In the wider context of Proverbs, this saying highlights a repeated theme: the difference between a life centered on self and a life that blesses others.