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Proverbs 19:7

All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him? he pursueth them with words, yet they are wanting to him.

Proverbs 19:7 · King James Version

Meaning

The verse 'All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him? he pursueth them with words, yet they are wanting to him.' from the book of Proverbs 19:7 speaks to the isolation and alienation that can occur when a person is poor. It suggests that even the poor man's own family members may despise him because of his poverty, but what is even more heartbreaking is that even his friends abandon him. The verse highlights the deep sense of loneliness and rejection that can accompany poverty, as the individual may try to reach out to others for help or companionship, only to be met with indifference or rejection. The imagery of pursuing friends with words, yet still being left wanting, underscores the profound sense of rejection and abandonment that the poor man experiences. This verse serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of showing compassion and support to those who are in need, as they may suffer not only from material lack but also from emotional and social isolation.

Theological Overview

This verse from the book of Proverbs highlights the loneliness and desperation experienced by the poor. The phrase "All the brethren of the poor do hate him" speaks to the difficulty faced by those in poverty, who often find themselves abandoned or rejected even by their own family members. The following statement, "how much more do his friends go far from him?", further emphasizes the sense of isolation that the poor may feel, as even their close friends may distance themselves. The verse continues by illustrating the earnest attempts of the poor to reach out to others, using words in an effort to maintain relationships. However, despite their efforts, the poor are left wanting, unable to find the companionship and support they seek. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of showing compassion and empathy towards those less fortunate, and the need to be mindful of the struggles faced by the impoverished in our communities.

Proverbs 19:7 in other translations

American Standard Version

All the brethren of the poor do hate him: How much more do his friends go far from him! He pursueth [them with] words, [but] they are gone.

World English Bible

All the relatives of the poor shun him: how much more do his friends avoid him! He pursues them with pleas, but they are gone.

Douay-Rheims

The brethren of the poor man hate him: moreover also his friends have departed far from him. He that followeth after words only, shall have nothing.

Geneva Bible (1599)

All the brethren of the poore doe hate him: howe much more will his friends depart farre from him? though hee be instant with wordes, yet they will not.