Proverbs 28:20 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 28:20 mean?

Proverbs 28:20 says that a person who is trustworthy and steady will experience many good things, while someone who rushes to get rich will not go unpunished. The verse contrasts the long-term rewards of faithfulness with the dangers of greed and impatience.

The book of Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings, mostly attributed to Solomon, meant to teach practical wisdom for daily life. Here, the focus is on character: the “faithful man” is someone who can be relied on, while the one who “makes haste to be rich” is driven by a desire for quick gain. The verse warns that chasing wealth recklessly often leads to trouble, while steady integrity brings lasting blessings.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 28:20

• The word for “faithful” is אֱמוּנָה (’emunah), which means reliable, trustworthy, or steady. This highlights that the verse is talking about someone whose character is consistent and dependable, not just about religious faith.
• “Abound” comes from רַב (rav), meaning to be many or plentiful. The idea is not just a little blessing, but a life marked by ongoing goodness.
• The phrase “maketh haste” uses אוּץ (uts), which means to hurry or rush. This word suggests impatience and a willingness to cut corners to get rich quickly.
• “Innocent” is from נָקָה (naqah), meaning to be free from guilt or punishment. The verse warns that those who are greedy and impatient will not escape consequences.

Why Proverbs 28:20 matters

• Proverbs 28:20 corrects the idea that getting rich quickly is always a sign of blessing; it warns that the way wealth is pursued matters as much as the outcome.
• The verse emphasizes that steady, trustworthy character is more valuable in the long run than chasing after quick success.
• In the wider context of Proverbs, this verse fits with other warnings against greed and dishonest gain, showing a consistent biblical concern for integrity over short-term profit.