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class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/proverbs/14.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/proverbs/14.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/proverbs/14.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Those who oppress the poor insult their Maker, but helping the poor honors him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/proverbs/14.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/14.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Whoever oppresses the poor taunts their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors Him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/proverbs/14.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/proverbs/14.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />He who oppresses the poor reproaches his Maker, But he who honors Him has mercy on the needy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/proverbs/14.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />One who oppresses the poor taunts his Maker, But one who is gracious to the needy honors Him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/proverbs/14.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />He who oppresses the poor taunts his Maker, But he who is gracious to the needy honors Him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/proverbs/14.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />He who oppresses the poor reproaches his Maker, But he who is gracious to the needy honors Him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/proverbs/14.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />He who oppresses the poor reproaches his Maker, But he who is gracious to the needy honors Him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/proverbs/14.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />He who oppresses the poor taunts <i>and</i> insults his Maker, But he who is kind <i>and</i> merciful <i>and</i> gracious to the needy honors Him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/proverbs/14.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />The one who oppresses the poor person insults his Maker, but one who is kind to the needy honors him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/proverbs/14.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />The one who oppresses the poor person insults his Maker, but one who is kind to the needy honors Him. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/proverbs/14.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker; But he that hath mercy on the needy honoreth him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/proverbs/14.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />If you mistreat the poor, you insult your Creator; if you are kind to them, you show him respect. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/proverbs/14.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that hath mercy on the needy honoureth him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/proverbs/14.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Whoever oppresses the poor insults his maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/proverbs/14.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />If you oppress poor people, you insult the God who made them; but kindness shown to the poor is an act of worship. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/proverbs/14.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Whoever oppresses the poor defies their Creator, but whoever is kind to the needy honors them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/proverbs/14.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Whoever oppresses the poor taunts their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors Him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/proverbs/14.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />The one who oppresses the poor insults his Creator, but whoever shows favor to the needy honors him. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/proverbs/14.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for his Maker, but he who is kind to the needy honors him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/proverbs/14.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoreth him hath mercy on the poor.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/proverbs/14.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for his Maker, but he who is kind to the needy honors him. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/proverbs/14.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />An oppressor of the poor reproaches his Maker, "" And whoever is honoring Him "" Is favoring the needy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/proverbs/14.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> An oppressor of the poor reproacheth his Maker, And whoso is honouring Him Is favouring the needy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/proverbs/14.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />He oppressing the poor reproached him making him: and he honoring him compassionated the needy.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/proverbs/14.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />He that oppresseth the poor, upbraideth his Maker: but he that hath pity on the poor, honoureth him. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/proverbs/14.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />Whoever slanders the indigent argues against his Maker. But he who has compassion on the poor honors his Maker.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/proverbs/14.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Those who oppress the poor revile their Maker, but those who are kind to the needy honor him. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/proverbs/14.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Those who oppress the poor insult their Maker, but those who are kind to the needy honor him.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/proverbs/14.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />He who oppresses the poor provokes his Maker; but he who honors the LORD has mercy on the needy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/proverbs/14.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />He that oppresses the poor is very evil; he angers him who made him; he that honors LORD JEHOVAH shows mercy upon the afflicted.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/proverbs/14.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />He that oppresseth the poor blasphemeth his Maker; But he that is gracious unto the needy honoureth Him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/proverbs/14.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />He that oppresses the needy provokes his Maker: but he that honours him has pity upon the poor.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/proverbs/14-31.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kpUA5ZltBeQ?start=2763" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/14.htm">The Wise Woman</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">30</span>A tranquil heart is life to the body, but envy rots the bones. <span class="reftext">31</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/6231.htm" title="6231: ʿō·šēq- (V-Qal-Prtcpl-ms) -- To oppress, wrong, extort. A primitive root; to press upon, i.e. Oppress, defraud, violate, overflow.">Whoever oppresses</a> <a href="/hebrew/1800.htm" title="1800: dāl (Adj-msc) -- Dangling, weak, thin. From dalal; properly, dangling, i.e. weak or thin.">the poor</a> <a href="/hebrew/2778.htm" title="2778: ḥê·rêp̄ (V-Piel-Perf-3ms) -- To pull off, to expose, to betroth, to carp at, defame, to spend the winter.">taunts</a> <a href="/hebrew/6213.htm" title="6213: ‘ō·śê·hū (V-Qal-Prtcpl-msc:: 3ms) -- To do, make. A primitive root; to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application.">their Maker,</a> <a href="/hebrew/2603.htm" title="2603: ḥō·nên (V-Qal-Prtcpl-ms) -- A primitive root; properly, to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior; to favor, bestow; causatively to implore.">but whoever is kind</a> <a href="/hebrew/34.htm" title="34: ’eḇ·yō·wn (Adj-ms) -- In want, needy, poor. From 'abah, in the sense of want; destitute.">to the needy</a> <a href="/hebrew/3513.htm" title="3513: ū·mə·ḵab·bə·ḏōw (Conj-w:: V-Piel-Prtcpl-msc:: 3ms) -- Or kabed; a primitive root; to be heavy, i.e. In a bad sense or in a good sense (in the same two senses).">honors Him.</a> </span><span class="reftext">32</span>The wicked man is thrown down by his own sin, but the righteous man has a refuge even in death.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/25-40.htm">Matthew 25:40</a></span><br />And the King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.’<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/2-5.htm">James 2:5-6</a></span><br />Listen, my beloved brothers: Has not God chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom He promised those who love Him? / But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who oppress you and drag you into court?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/58-6.htm">Isaiah 58:6-7</a></span><br />Isn’t this the fast that I have chosen: to break the chains of wickedness, to untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and tear off every yoke? / Isn’t it to share your bread with the hungry, to bring the poor and homeless into your home, to clothe the naked when you see him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/19-17.htm">Proverbs 19:17</a></span><br />Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/6-20.htm">Luke 6:20-21</a></span><br />Looking up at His disciples, Jesus said: “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. / Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be filled. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/job/31-15.htm">Job 31:15-20</a></span><br />Did not He who made me in the womb also make them? Did not the same One form us in the womb? / If I have denied the desires of the poor or allowed the widow’s eyes to fail, / if I have eaten my morsel alone, not sharing it with the fatherless— ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/galatians/2-10.htm">Galatians 2:10</a></span><br />They only asked us to remember the poor, the very thing I was eager to do.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/deuteronomy/15-7.htm">Deuteronomy 15:7-11</a></span><br />If there is a poor man among your brothers within any of the gates in the land that the LORD your God is giving you, then you are not to harden your heart or shut your hand from your poor brother. / Instead, you are to open your hand to him and freely loan him whatever he needs. / Be careful not to harbor this wicked thought in your heart: “The seventh year, the year of release, is near,” so that you look upon your poor brother begrudgingly and give him nothing. He will cry out to the LORD against you, and you will be guilty of sin. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_john/3-17.htm">1 John 3:17-18</a></span><br />If anyone with earthly possessions sees his brother in need, but withholds his compassion from him, how can the love of God abide in him? / Little children, let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/41-1.htm">Psalm 41:1</a></span><br />For the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. Blessed is the one who cares for the poor; the LORD will deliver him in the day of trouble.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/5-3.htm">Matthew 5:3</a></span><br />“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/22-22.htm">Proverbs 22:22-23</a></span><br />Do not rob a poor man because he is poor, and do not crush the afflicted at the gate, / for the LORD will take up their case and will plunder those who rob them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/8-9.htm">2 Corinthians 8:9</a></span><br />For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/1-17.htm">Isaiah 1:17</a></span><br />Learn to do right; seek justice and correct the oppressor. Defend the fatherless and plead the case of the widow.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/14-13.htm">Luke 14:13-14</a></span><br />But when you host a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind, / and you will be blessed. Since they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">He that oppresses the poor reproaches his Maker: but he that honors him has mercy on the poor.</p><p class="hdg">that oppresseth</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/17-5.htm">Proverbs 17:5</a></b></br> Whoso mocketh the poor reproacheth his Maker: <i>and</i> he that is glad at calamities shall not be unpunished.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/22-2.htm">Proverbs 22:2,16,22,23</a></b></br> The rich and poor meet together: the LORD <i>is</i> the maker of them all… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/job/31-13.htm">Job 31:13-16</a></b></br> If I did despise the cause of my manservant or of my maidservant, when they contended with me; … </p><p class="hdg">but</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/14-21.htm">Proverbs 14:21</a></b></br> He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy <i>is</i> he.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/19-17.htm">Proverbs 19:17</a></b></br> He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/matthew/25-40.htm">Matthew 25:40</a></b></br> And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done <i>it</i> unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done <i>it</i> unto me.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/psalms/44-16.htm">Blasphemeth</a> <a href="/proverbs/6-33.htm">Contempt</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-21.htm">Favouring</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-30.htm">Gives</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-21.htm">Gracious</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-23.htm">Hard</a> <a href="/proverbs/12-9.htm">Honoreth</a> <a href="/proverbs/12-9.htm">Honors</a> <a href="/proverbs/12-9.htm">Honoureth</a> <a href="/esther/6-7.htm">Honouring</a> <a href="/proverbs/9-7.htm">Insults</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-21.htm">Kind</a> <a href="/psalms/149-2.htm">Maker</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-22.htm">Mercy</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-28.htm">Need</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-21.htm">Needy</a> <a href="/psalms/56-1.htm">Oppresses</a> <a href="/job/40-23.htm">Oppresseth</a> <a href="/proverbs/3-31.htm">Oppressor</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-23.htm">Poor</a> <a href="/proverbs/11-28.htm">Puts</a> <a href="/psalms/119-42.htm">Reproacheth</a> <a href="/proverbs/13-18.htm">Shame</a> <a href="/proverbs/12-16.htm">Shows</a> <a href="/psalms/119-42.htm">Taunts</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/proverbs/17-5.htm">Blasphemeth</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-5.htm">Contempt</a> <a href="/proverbs/19-17.htm">Favouring</a> <a href="/proverbs/15-28.htm">Gives</a> <a href="/proverbs/19-17.htm">Gracious</a> <a href="/proverbs/15-19.htm">Hard</a> <a href="/matthew/15-8.htm">Honoreth</a> <a href="/daniel/2-48.htm">Honors</a> <a href="/malachi/1-6.htm">Honoureth</a> <a href="/daniel/4-37.htm">Honouring</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-5.htm">Insults</a> <a href="/proverbs/19-17.htm">Kind</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-5.htm">Maker</a> <a href="/proverbs/16-6.htm">Mercy</a> <a href="/proverbs/16-26.htm">Need</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-22.htm">Needy</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-16.htm">Oppresses</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-16.htm">Oppresseth</a> <a href="/proverbs/28-16.htm">Oppressor</a> <a href="/proverbs/15-15.htm">Poor</a> <a href="/proverbs/15-5.htm">Puts</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-5.htm">Reproacheth</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-34.htm">Shame</a> <a href="/proverbs/15-5.htm">Shows</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-5.htm">Taunts</a><div class="vheading2">Proverbs 14</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/14-1.htm">A wise woman builds her house</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/14.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/proverbs/14.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>Whoever oppresses the poor taunts their Maker</b><br>This phrase highlights the moral and spiritual implications of mistreating the poor. In biblical context, the poor are often seen as under God's special care, as seen in passages like <a href="/psalms/68-5.htm">Psalm 68:5</a>, which describes God as a "father to the fatherless" and a "defender of widows." Oppression of the poor is not just a social injustice but a direct affront to God, who created all people in His image (<a href="/genesis/1-27.htm">Genesis 1:27</a>). The Hebrew word for "oppress" can imply both physical and economic exploitation, suggesting a broad range of injustices. Historically, the ancient Near Eastern societies, including Israel, had laws to protect the vulnerable, such as the gleaning laws in <a href="/leviticus/19-9.htm">Leviticus 19:9-10</a>. Theologically, this phrase underscores the belief that God is the ultimate defender of the marginalized, and to oppress them is to challenge His authority and care.<p><b>but whoever is kind to the needy honors Him</b><br>This part of the verse contrasts the previous statement by showing the positive action of kindness towards the needy. Kindness here is not merely an act of charity but a reflection of God's character, as seen in passages like <a href="/micah/6-8.htm">Micah 6:8</a>, which calls for justice, mercy, and humility. The act of kindness is seen as honoring God, aligning with the biblical principle that what is done for the "least of these" is done for Christ Himself (<a href="/matthew/25-40.htm">Matthew 25:40</a>). In the cultural context of ancient Israel, where community and family were central, caring for the needy was a communal responsibility. This phrase also connects to the broader biblical theme of God's concern for justice and mercy, as seen in the prophetic literature, such as <a href="/isaiah/58-6.htm">Isaiah 58:6-7</a>, which calls for true fasting that involves sharing with the hungry and providing for the poor. Theologically, this reflects the idea that true worship of God is demonstrated through acts of love and compassion, embodying the character of Jesus Christ, who came to serve and not to be served (<a href="/mark/10-45.htm">Mark 10:45</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_oppressor.htm">The Oppressor</a></b><br>This refers to anyone who mistreats or exploits those who are less fortunate, particularly the poor. In the context of ancient Israel, this could include unjust rulers, employers, or anyone in a position of power who abuses their authority.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_poor.htm">The Poor</a></b><br>The economically disadvantaged or those lacking resources. In biblical times, the poor were often marginalized and lacked social standing.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_maker.htm">The Maker</a></b><br>This is a reference to God, the Creator of all people. The verse emphasizes that God is the Maker of both the rich and the poor, highlighting the equality of all humans before God.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_kind_person.htm">The Kind Person</a></b><br>Someone who shows compassion and generosity towards those in need. This person reflects God's character through their actions.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_needy.htm">The Needy</a></b><br>Similar to the poor, this term encompasses those who are in need of assistance, whether materially, emotionally, or spiritually.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/r/respect_for_all_as_god's_creation.htm">Respect for All as God's Creation</a></b><br>Recognize that every person, regardless of their economic status, is made in the image of God. Our treatment of others reflects our reverence for God as their Creator.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_call_to_compassion.htm">The Call to Compassion</a></b><br>As followers of Christ, we are called to show kindness and compassion to those in need. This is not just a suggestion but a reflection of God's heart for the marginalized.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_consequences_of_oppression.htm">The Consequences of Oppression</a></b><br>Oppressing the poor is not just a social injustice but a spiritual offense against God. It is crucial to examine our actions and attitudes towards those less fortunate.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/h/honoring_god_through_service.htm">Honoring God Through Service</a></b><br>Acts of kindness towards the needy are acts of worship. By serving others, we honor God and demonstrate His love to the world.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/e/eternal_perspective_on_wealth_and_poverty.htm">Eternal Perspective on Wealth and Poverty</a></b><br>Earthly wealth is temporary, but the impact of our generosity has eternal significance. We should prioritize storing up treasures in heaven by investing in the lives of others.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_proverbs_14.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 14</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/does_oppressing_the_poor_disrespect_god.htm">Does oppressing the poor disrespect their Creator?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_on_bullying.htm">What does the Bible say about bullying?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/bible's_view_on_poverty_and_wealth.htm">What does the Bible say about poverty and wealth?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/bible's_view_on_inflation.htm">What is the Bible's perspective on inflation?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/proverbs/14.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(31) <span class= "bld">Reproacheth his Maker.--</span>For having placed him in such a lowly condition. The equality of all men, as being all of them the work of God, is taught by <a href="/genesis/1-27.htm" title="So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.">Genesis 1:27</a>; <a href="/job/31-15.htm" title="Did not he that made me in the womb make him? and did not one fashion us in the womb?">Job 31:15</a>; <a href="/proverbs/22-2.htm" title="The rich and poor meet together: the LORD is the maker of them all.">Proverbs 22:2</a>. The duty of aiding the poor is in <a href="/matthew/25-40.htm" title="And the King shall answer and say to them, Truly I say to you, Inasmuch as you have done it to one of the least of these my brothers, you have done it to me.">Matthew 25:40</a> based on the still higher ground of the union of Christ with His people, which makes Him regard good done to them as done to Himself.<p><span class= "bld">But he that honoureth him </span>. . .--This would be better rendered, <span class= "ital">but he that hath mercy on the poor honoureth Him.</span><p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/proverbs/14.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 31.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker,</span> even God. who hath placed men in their several conditions (<a href="/proverbs/17-5.htm">Proverbs 17:5</a>; <a href="/proverbs/22-2.htm">Proverbs 22:2</a>). "The poor shall never cease out of the land" (<a href="/deuteronomy/15-11.htm">Deuteronomy 15:11</a>); "The poor ye have always with you," said Christ (<a href="/matthew/26-11.htm">Matthew 26:11</a>); therefore to harass and oppress the poor because he is in this lowly condition, is virtually to arraign the providence of God, who is the Father of all, and has made all men brothers, however differing in worldly position. Christ puts the duty of aiding the poor on the high ground of his solidarity with his people (<a href="/matthew/25-40.htm">Matthew 25:40, 45</a>), how that in ministering unto the least of these his brethren men are ministering unto him. "Prosperity and adversity, life and death, poverty and riches, come of the Lord" (Ecclus. 11:14). Even the heathen could say - <p><span class="greek">Ἀεὶ νομίζονθ οἱ πένητες τῶν Θεῶν</span>. <p><span class="accented">Deem ever that the poor are God's own gift."</span> Septuagint, "He that calumniates (<span class="greek">συκοφανῶν</span>; <span class="accented">calumniatur</span>, Vulgate) the poor angers him who made him." This version refers to oppression of the poor by means of calumny or false and frivolous accusation. <span class="cmt_word">But he that honoureth him</span> - the Lord - <span class="cmt_word">hath mercy on the poor;</span> or, better, <span class="accented">he that hath mercy upon the poor honoureth him</span>; for he shows that he has proper regard to God's ordinance, acts on high motives, and is not led astray by worldly considerations. Christ himself has consecrated poverty by coming in low estate (<a href="/2_corinthians/8-9.htm">2 Corinthians 8:9</a>), and they who love and honour him are glad to minister to his brethren in their poverty and distress (comp. <a href="/james/1-27.htm">James 1:27</a>). <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/proverbs/14-31.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">He who oppresses</span><br /><span class="heb">עֹ֣שֵֽׁק</span> <span class="translit">(‘ō·šêq-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6231.htm">Strong's 6231: </a> </span><span class="str2">To press upon, oppress, defraud, violate, overflow</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the poor</span><br /><span class="heb">דָּ֭ל</span> <span class="translit">(dāl)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adjective - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1800.htm">Strong's 1800: </a> </span><span class="str2">Dangling, weak, thin</span><br /><br /><span class="word">taunts</span><br /><span class="heb">חֵרֵ֣ף</span> <span class="translit">(ḥê·rêp̄)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Piel - Perfect - third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2778.htm">Strong's 2778: </a> </span><span class="str2">To pull off, to expose, to betroth, to carp at, defame, to spend the winter</span><br /><br /><span class="word">their Maker,</span><br /><span class="heb">עֹשֵׂ֑הוּ</span> <span class="translit">(‘ō·śê·hū)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6213.htm">Strong's 6213: </a> </span><span class="str2">To do, make</span><br /><br /><span class="word">but whoever is kind</span><br /><span class="heb">חֹנֵ֥ן</span> <span class="translit">(ḥō·nên)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2603.htm">Strong's 2603: </a> </span><span class="str2">To bend, stoop in kindness to an inferior, to favor, bestow, to implore</span><br /><br /><span class="word">to the needy</span><br /><span class="heb">אֶבְיֽוֹן׃</span> <span class="translit">(’eḇ·yō·wn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adjective - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_34.htm">Strong's 34: </a> </span><span class="str2">In want, needy, poor</span><br /><br /><span class="word">honors Him.</span><br /><span class="heb">וּ֝מְכַבְּד֗וֹ</span> <span class="translit">(ū·mə·ḵab·bə·ḏōw)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Verb - Piel - Participle - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3513.htm">Strong's 3513: </a> </span><span class="str2">To be heavy, weighty, or burdensome</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/proverbs/14-31.htm">Proverbs 14:31 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/proverbs/14-31.htm">Proverbs 14:31 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/proverbs/14-31.htm">Proverbs 14:31 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/proverbs/14-31.htm">Proverbs 14:31 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/proverbs/14-31.htm">Proverbs 14:31 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/proverbs/14-31.htm">Proverbs 14:31 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/proverbs/14-31.htm">Proverbs 14:31 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/proverbs/14-31.htm">Proverbs 14:31 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/proverbs/14-31.htm">Proverbs 14:31 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/proverbs/14-31.htm">Proverbs 14:31 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/proverbs/14-31.htm">OT Poetry: Proverbs 14:31 He who oppresses the poor shows contempt (Prov. Pro Pr) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/proverbs/14-30.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Proverbs 14:30"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Proverbs 14:30" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/proverbs/14-32.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Proverbs 14:32"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Proverbs 14:32" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>