King James Version

What Does Proverbs 19:4 Mean?

Proverbs 19:4 in the King James Version says “Wealth maketh many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbour.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 19 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Wealth maketh many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbour.”

Proverbs 19:4 · KJV

Context

2

Also, that the soul be without knowledge, it is not good; and he that hasteth with his feet sinneth.

3

The foolishness of man perverteth his way: and his heart fretteth against the LORD.

4

Wealth maketh many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbour.

5

A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape. unpunished: Heb. held innocent

6

Many will intreat the favour of the prince: and every man is a friend to him that giveth gifts. him: Heb. a man of gifts

Read Proverbs 19 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Wealth makes many friends, but the poor is separated from his neighbor. Prosperity attracts associates; poverty repels them. This verse observes social reality without necessarily endorsing it - wealth produces fair-weather friends while poverty produces isolation. The observation warns both rich (your friends may be mercenary) and poor (expect social marginalization). It also indicts human nature - valuing people for utility rather than inherent worth.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Reflects ancient social structures where patronage systems connected wealthy benefactors with dependent clients. The poor lacked such networks, experiencing social isolation alongside material want.

Reflection Questions

  1. How much of your social network depends on your wealth or usefulness to others?
  2. How do you treat the poor whose friendship offers you no material advantage?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
ה֗וֹן1 of 7

“Wealth”

H1952

wealth; by implication, enough

יֹ֭סִיף2 of 7

“maketh”

H3254

to add or augment (often adverbial, to continue to do a thing)

מֵרֵ֥עהוּ3 of 7

“friends”

H7453

an associate (more or less close)

רַבִּ֑ים4 of 7

“many”

H7227

abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)

וְ֝דָ֗ל5 of 7

“but the poor”

H1800

properly, dangling, i.e., (by implication) weak or thin

מֵרֵ֥עהוּ6 of 7

“friends”

H7453

an associate (more or less close)

יִפָּרֵֽד׃7 of 7

“is separated”

H6504

to break through, i.e., spread or separate (oneself)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Proverbs. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Proverbs 19:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Proverbs 19:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Proverbs 14:20Proverbs 19:6-7Job 19:13-17Luke 15:13-15Job 6:15-23Proverbs 10:15

Test Your Knowledge

Proverbs 19 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterProverbs Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Proverbs 19 with CommentaryAll Proverbs ChaptersComplete Proverbs QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes