CINXE.COM

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Proverbs 22:1 A good name is more desirable than great riches; favor is better than silver and gold.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/proverbs/22-1.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/8/20_Pro_22_01.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Proverbs 22:1 - A Good Name" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="A good name is more desirable than great riches; favor is better than silver and gold." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/proverbs/22-1.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/proverbs/22-1.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/proverbs/">Proverbs</a> > <a href="/proverbs/22.htm">Chapter 22</a> > Verse 1</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad1.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/proverbs/21-31.htm" title="Proverbs 21:31">◄</a> Proverbs 22:1 <a href="/proverbs/22-2.htm" title="Proverbs 22:2">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/proverbs/22.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/22.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/proverbs/22.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/proverbs/22.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/22.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />A good name is more desirable than great riches; favor is better than silver and gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/proverbs/22.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />A <i>good</i> name <i>is</i> rather to be chosen than great riches, <i>and</i> loving favour rather than silver and gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/proverbs/22.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />A <i>good</i> name is to be chosen rather than great riches, Loving favor rather than silver and gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/proverbs/22.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />A <i>good</i> name is to be more desired than great wealth; Favor is better than silver and gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/proverbs/22.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />A good name is to be more desired than great wealth, Favor is better than silver and gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/proverbs/22.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />A<i>good</i> name is to be more desired than great riches, Favor is better than silver and gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/proverbs/22.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />A <i>good</i> name is to be chosen over great wealth, Favor is better than silver and gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/proverbs/22.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />A <i>good</i> name [earned by honorable behavior, godly wisdom, moral courage, and personal integrity] is more desirable than great riches; And favor is better than silver and gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/proverbs/22.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />A good name is to be chosen over great wealth; favor is better than silver and gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/proverbs/22.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />A good name is to be chosen over great wealth; favor is better than silver and gold. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/proverbs/22.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, And loving favor rather than silver and gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/proverbs/22.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />A good reputation and respect are worth much more than silver and gold. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/proverbs/22.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />A GOOD name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/proverbs/22.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />A good name is more desirable than great wealth. Respect is better than silver or gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/proverbs/22.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />If you have to choose between a good reputation and great wealth, choose a good reputation. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/proverbs/22.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />A good reputation is more desirable than great wealth, and favorable acceptance more than silver and gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/proverbs/22.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />A good name is more desirable than great riches; favor is better than silver and gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/proverbs/22.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />A good name is to be chosen rather than great wealth, good favor more than silver or gold. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/proverbs/22.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />A good name is more desirable than great riches, and loving favor is better than silver and gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/proverbs/22.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/proverbs/22.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />A good name is more desirable than great riches, and loving favor is better than silver and gold. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/proverbs/22.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />A name is chosen rather than much wealth, "" Than silver and than gold—good grace.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/proverbs/22.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> A name is chosen rather than much wealth, Than silver and than gold -- good grace.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/proverbs/22.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />A Name to be chosen rather than much riches, and good grace rather than gold.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/proverbs/22.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />A good name is better than great riches: and good favour is above silver and gold. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/proverbs/22.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />A good name is better than many riches. And good esteem is above silver and gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/proverbs/22.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />A good name is more desirable than great riches, and high esteem, than gold and silver. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/proverbs/22.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/proverbs/22.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />GOOD name is better than great riches, and loving favor than silver and gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/proverbs/22.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />The Name is better than great wealth, and compassion is better than gold or silver.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/proverbs/22.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, And loving favour rather than silver and gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/proverbs/22.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />A fair name is better than much wealth, and good favour is above silver and gold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/proverbs/22-1.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=4378" 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/22.htm">A Good Name</a></span><br> <span class="reftext">1</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/8034.htm" title="8034: m (N-ms) -- A primitive word; an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character.">A good name</a> <a href="/hebrew/977.htm" title="977: niḇ·ḥār (V-Nifal-Prtcpl-ms) -- To choose. A primitive root; properly, to try, i.e. select.">is more desirable</a> <a href="/hebrew/7227.htm" title="7227: rāḇ (Adj-ms) -- Much, many, great. By contracted from rabab; abundant.">than great</a> <a href="/hebrew/6239.htm" title="6239: mê·‘ō·šer (Prep-m:: N-ms) -- Riches. From ashar; wealth.">riches;</a> <a href="/hebrew/2580.htm" title="2580: ḥên (N-ms) -- Favor, grace. From chanan; graciousness, i.e. Subjective or objective.">favor</a> <a href="/hebrew/2896.htm" title="2896: ṭō·wḇ (Adj-ms) -- Pleasant, agreeable, good.">is better</a> <a href="/hebrew/3701.htm" title="3701: mik·ke·sep̄ (Prep-m:: N-ms) -- Silver, money. From kacaph; silver; by implication, money.">than silver</a> <a href="/hebrew/2091.htm" title="2091: ū·miz·zā·hāḇ (Conj-w, Prep-m:: N-ms) -- Gold. From an unused root meaning to shimmer; gold, figuratively, something gold-colored, as oil, a clear sky.">and gold.</a> </span><span class="reftext">2</span>The rich and the poor have this in common: The LORD is Maker of them all.…<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="/ecclesiastes/7-1.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:1</a></span><br />A good name is better than fine perfume, and one’s day of death is better than his day of birth.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/10-7.htm">Proverbs 10:7</a></span><br />The memory of the righteous is a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/3-3.htm">Proverbs 3:3-4</a></span><br />Never let loving devotion or faithfulness leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. / Then you will find favor and high regard in the sight of God and man.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/15-16.htm">Proverbs 15:16</a></span><br />Better a little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure with turmoil.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/16-16.htm">Proverbs 16:16</a></span><br />How much better to acquire wisdom than gold! To gain understanding is more desirable than silver.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/19-1.htm">Proverbs 19:1</a></span><br />Better a poor man who walks with integrity than a fool whose lips are perverse.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/28-6.htm">Proverbs 28:6</a></span><br />Better a poor man who walks with integrity than a rich man whose ways are perverse.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/112-6.htm">Psalm 112:6</a></span><br />Surely he will never be shaken; the righteous man will be remembered forever.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/119-72.htm">Psalm 119:72</a></span><br />The law from Your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of gold and silver.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/37-16.htm">Psalm 37:16</a></span><br />Better is the little of the righteous than the abundance of many who are wicked.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_timothy/6-6.htm">1 Timothy 6:6</a></span><br />Of course, godliness with contentment is great gain.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/6-19.htm">Matthew 6:19-21</a></span><br />Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. / But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. / For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/12-15.htm">Luke 12:15</a></span><br />And He said to them, “Watch out! Guard yourselves against every form of greed, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/philippians/4-11.htm">Philippians 4:11-13</a></span><br />I am not saying this out of need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances. / I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. In any and every situation I have learned the secret of being filled and being hungry, of having plenty and having need. / I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/hebrews/13-5.htm">Hebrews 13:5</a></span><br />Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, for God has said: “Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you.”</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">A GOOD name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold.</p><p class="hdg">loving favour rather than</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/acts/7-10.htm">Acts 7:10</a></b></br> And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favour and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/proverbs/21-19.htm">Better</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-3.htm">Chosen</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-20.htm">Desirable</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-26.htm">Desired</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-28.htm">Esteemed</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-10.htm">Favor</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-10.htm">Favour</a> <a href="/proverbs/20-15.htm">Gold</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-18.htm">Good</a> <a href="/proverbs/18-23.htm">Grace</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-20.htm">Great</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-17.htm">Loving</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-3.htm">Rather</a> <a href="/2_kings/5-1.htm">Respected</a> <a href="/proverbs/19-14.htm">Riches</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-3.htm">Silver</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-17.htm">Wealth</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/proverbs/25-7.htm">Better</a> <a href="/isaiah/1-29.htm">Chosen</a> <a href="/songs/5-16.htm">Desirable</a> <a href="/proverbs/29-26.htm">Desired</a> <a href="/isaiah/2-22.htm">Esteemed</a> <a href="/proverbs/28-23.htm">Favor</a> <a href="/proverbs/28-23.htm">Favour</a> <a href="/proverbs/25-11.htm">Gold</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-9.htm">Good</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-11.htm">Grace</a> <a href="/proverbs/23-2.htm">Great</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-11.htm">Loving</a> <a href="/proverbs/23-17.htm">Rather</a> <a href="/proverbs/31-23.htm">Respected</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-4.htm">Riches</a> <a href="/proverbs/25-4.htm">Silver</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-2.htm">Wealth</a><div class="vheading2">Proverbs 22</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/22-1.htm">A good name is more desirable than great wealth</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/22.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/22.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>A good name</b><br>In biblical times, a person's name was more than just a label; it represented their character and reputation. The importance of a good name is emphasized throughout Scripture, as seen in <a href="/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:1</a>, which states that a good name is better than fine perfume. The concept of a "good name" is tied to one's integrity and moral standing within the community. In the ancient Near East, maintaining a good reputation was crucial for social and economic interactions.<p><b>is more desirable than great riches;</b><br>This phrase highlights the value of character over material wealth. In a culture where wealth was often seen as a sign of God's blessing, this proverb challenges the reader to prioritize ethical living and reputation over financial gain. The Bible frequently warns against the pursuit of wealth at the expense of righteousness, as seen in <a href="/1_timothy/6-10.htm">1 Timothy 6:10</a>, which warns that the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. The emphasis is on the eternal value of a good name compared to the temporary nature of riches.<p><b>favor is better than silver and gold.</b><br>Favor, or grace, refers to the approval and goodwill of others, which is often a result of having a good name. This favor can open doors and provide opportunities that wealth cannot. The Bible often speaks of God's favor as a blessing, as seen in <a href="/psalms/5-12.htm">Psalm 5:12</a>, where the Lord blesses the righteous with favor as a shield. The comparison to silver and gold underscores the idea that divine and human favor are more valuable than even the most precious earthly treasures. This aligns with the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized storing up treasures in heaven rather than on earth (<a href="/matthew/6-19.htm">Matthew 6:19-21</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/s/solomon.htm">Solomon</a></b><br>Traditionally attributed as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His insights into the value of a good name reflect his understanding of human nature and divine principles.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/a/ancient_israel.htm">Ancient Israel</a></b><br>The cultural and historical context of Proverbs is rooted in ancient Israel, where reputation and social standing were crucial aspects of community life.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/w/wisdom_literature.htm">Wisdom Literature</a></b><br>Proverbs is part of the wisdom literature in the Bible, which includes practical teachings on how to live a life that is pleasing to God.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_value_of_reputation.htm">The Value of Reputation</a></b><br>A good name, or reputation, is invaluable. It reflects one's character and integrity, which are more enduring and impactful than material wealth.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/f/favor_over_wealth.htm">Favor Over Wealth</a></b><br>Favor, or grace, is a divine blessing that surpasses the temporary satisfaction of riches. It opens doors and creates opportunities that money cannot buy.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/c/character_development.htm">Character Development</a></b><br>Building a good name requires consistent effort in developing godly character traits such as honesty, kindness, and humility.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/e/eternal_perspective.htm">Eternal Perspective</a></b><br>While wealth is temporary, a good name has eternal significance. It influences how we are remembered and the legacy we leave behind.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/w/witness_to_others.htm">Witness to Others</a></b><br>A good reputation serves as a powerful testimony to others about the transformative power of living a life according to God's principles.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_proverbs_22.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 22</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/meaning_of_'a_good_name_is_better_than_riches'.htm">What does "A good name is better than riches" mean?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/who_were_the_zidonians_in_the_bible.htm">What does 'A good name is better than riches' mean?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/customer_feedback_on_their_experience.htm">What do customers say about their experience with us?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/is_a_good_name_worth_more_than_ointment.htm">Is a good name more valuable than precious ointment?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/proverbs/22.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div><span class= "bld">XXII.</span><p>(1) <span class= "bld">Loving favour.--</span>Or, <span class= "ital">favour is better than silver and gold. </span>"Favour" may signify the grace which wins love, as well as the favour gained thereby.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/proverbs/22.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 1.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches</span>. It will be observed that "good" in the Authorized Version is in italics, showing that the epithet is not expressed in the Hebrew, which is simply <span class="hebrew">שֵׁם</span> (<span class="accented">shem</span>), "name." But this word carried with it the notion of good repute, as in <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-1.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:1</a>; for being well known implied honour and reputation, while being nameless (<a href="/job/30-8.htm">Job 30:8</a>) signified not only obscurity, but ignominy and discredit. Hence the versions have <span class="greek">ὄνομα καλόν</span>, <span class="accented">nomen bonum</span>, and Ecclus. 41:12, "Have regard to thy name (<span class="greek">περὶ ὀνόματος</span>), for that shall continue with thee above a thousand great treasures of gold. A good life," the moralist continues, "hath but few days; but a good name endureth forever" (contrast <a href="/proverbs/10-7.htm">Proverbs 10:7</a>). <span class="cmt_word">And loving favour rather than silver and gold;</span> or, more accurately, <span class="accented">and before gold and silver grace is good</span>; <span class="accented">i.e.</span> grace is far better than gold. Grace (<span class="accented">chen</span>) is the manner and demeanour which win love, as well as the favour and affection gained thereby; taken as parallel to "name," in the former hemistich, it means here "favour," the regard conceived by others for a worthy object. Publ. Syr., "Bona opinio hominum tutier pecunia est." The French have a proverb, "Bonne renommee vaut mieux que ceinture doree." The latter hemistich gives the reason for the assertion in the former - a good name is so valuable because it wins affection and friendship, which are far preferable to material riches, <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/proverbs/22-1.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">A good name</span><br /><span class="heb">שֵׁ֭ם</span> <span class="translit">(m)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8034.htm">Strong's 8034: </a> </span><span class="str2">A name</span><br /><br /><span class="word">is more desirable</span><br /><span class="heb">נִבְחָ֣ר</span> <span class="translit">(niḇ·ḥār)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Nifal - Participle - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_977.htm">Strong's 977: </a> </span><span class="str2">To try, select</span><br /><br /><span class="word">than great</span><br /><span class="heb">רָ֑ב</span> <span class="translit">(rāḇ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adjective - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7227.htm">Strong's 7227: </a> </span><span class="str2">Much, many, great</span><br /><br /><span class="word">riches;</span><br /><span class="heb">מֵעֹ֣שֶׁר</span> <span class="translit">(mê·‘ō·šer)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-m | Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6239.htm">Strong's 6239: </a> </span><span class="str2">Wealth</span><br /><br /><span class="word">favor</span><br /><span class="heb">חֵ֣ן</span> <span class="translit">(ḥên)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2580.htm">Strong's 2580: </a> </span><span class="str2">Graciousness, subjective, objective</span><br /><br /><span class="word">is better</span><br /><span class="heb">טֽוֹב׃</span> <span class="translit">(ṭō·wḇ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adjective - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2896.htm">Strong's 2896: </a> </span><span class="str2">Pleasant, agreeable, good</span><br /><br /><span class="word">than silver</span><br /><span class="heb">מִכֶּ֥סֶף</span> <span class="translit">(mik·ke·sep̄)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-m | Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3701.htm">Strong's 3701: </a> </span><span class="str2">Silver, money</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and gold.</span><br /><span class="heb">וּ֝מִזָּהָ֗ב</span> <span class="translit">(ū·miz·zā·hāḇ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw, Preposition-m | Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2091.htm">Strong's 2091: </a> </span><span class="str2">Gold, something gold-colored, as oil, a clear sky</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/proverbs/22-1.htm">Proverbs 22:1 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/proverbs/22-1.htm">Proverbs 22:1 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/proverbs/22-1.htm">Proverbs 22:1 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/proverbs/22-1.htm">Proverbs 22:1 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/proverbs/22-1.htm">Proverbs 22:1 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/proverbs/22-1.htm">Proverbs 22:1 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/proverbs/22-1.htm">Proverbs 22:1 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/proverbs/22-1.htm">Proverbs 22:1 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/proverbs/22-1.htm">Proverbs 22:1 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/proverbs/22-1.htm">Proverbs 22:1 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/proverbs/22-1.htm">OT Poetry: Proverbs 22:1 A good name is more desirable than (Prov. Pro Pr) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/proverbs/21-31.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Proverbs 21:31"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Proverbs 21:31" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/proverbs/22-2.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Proverbs 22:2"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Proverbs 22:2" /></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>