King James Version

What Does Proverbs 22:1 Mean?

Proverbs 22:1 in the King James Version says “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold. loving: or, favour ...” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold. loving: or, favour is better than, etc”

Proverbs 22:1 · KJV

Context

1

A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold. loving: or, favour is better than, etc

2

The rich and poor meet together: the LORD is the maker of them all.

3

A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.

Read Proverbs 22 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This proverb values reputation over riches: 'A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.' A 'good name' (shem tov—good reputation) surpasses material wealth in value. 'Loving favour' (chen tov—gracious favor, goodwill) similarly exceeds precious metals. The verse establishes priorities: character and reputation matter more than financial wealth. This doesn't denigrate money but places it in proper perspective. Reputation, once destroyed, proves difficult to restore; maintaining integrity preserves one's good name. Ecclesiastes 7:1 similarly states: 'A good name is better than precious ointment.'

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient honor-shame cultures prized reputation highly. Public disgrace could devastate social standing and economic prospects. Yet Proverbs insists that reputation should be earned through godly character, not pursued through wealth display or social manipulation. The principle remains relevant—integrity and trustworthiness create lasting value beyond financial assets.

Reflection Questions

  1. If forced to choose, would you sacrifice wealth to preserve your reputation for integrity and godliness?
  2. What specific choices can you make to build and protect a 'good name' characterized by Christ-like character?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
נִבְחָ֣ר1 of 8

“is rather to be chosen”

H977

properly, to try, i.e., (by implication) select

שֵׁ֭ם2 of 8

“A good name”

H8034

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

מֵעֹ֣שֶׁר3 of 8

“riches”

H6239

wealth

רָ֑ב4 of 8

“than great”

H7227

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

מִכֶּ֥סֶף5 of 8

“rather than silver”

H3701

silver (from its pale color); by implication, money

וּ֝מִזָּהָ֗ב6 of 8

“and gold”

H2091

gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky

חֵ֣ן7 of 8

“favour”

H2580

graciousness, i.e., subjective (kindness, favor) or objective (beauty)

טֽוֹב׃8 of 8

“and loving”

H2896

good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good

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 22:1 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 22:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Ecclesiastes 7:1Luke 10:201 Kings 1:47

Test Your Knowledge

Proverbs 22 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterProverbs Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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