King James Version

What Does Proverbs 22:16 Mean?

Proverbs 22:16 in the King James Version says “He that oppresseth the poor to increase his riches, and he that giveth to the rich, shall surely come to want.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“He that oppresseth the poor to increase his riches, and he that giveth to the rich, shall surely come to want.”

Proverbs 22:16 · KJV

Context

14

The mouth of strange women is a deep pit: he that is abhorred of the LORD shall fall therein.

15

Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.

16

He that oppresseth the poor to increase his riches, and he that giveth to the rich, shall surely come to want.

17

Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge.

18

For it is a pleasant thing if thou keep them within thee; they shall withal be fitted in thy lips. within: Heb. in thy belly

Read Proverbs 22 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The person who wanders from understanding's path will dwell 'in the congregation of the dead.' Understanding means practical wisdom that fears God and follows His ways. Departing from this path leads to spiritual death and ultimately eternal separation from God. The 'congregation of the dead' depicts the realm of departed spirits—those who died in sin. This isn't annihilation but conscious existence in death's domain. The verse warns solemnly: persist in folly and you join the damned. Remain in understanding and you have life. There are only two paths and two destinations: wisdom leads to life; folly leads to death. Choose this day whom you will serve.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Hebrew thought understood Sheol as the realm of the dead. While Old Testament eschatology was less developed than New Testament teaching, the reality of post-mortem existence and judgment was affirmed.

Reflection Questions

  1. Are you walking in the way of understanding or drifting toward the congregation of the dead?
  2. What specific choices reveal whether you're on wisdom's path or folly's road?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
עֹ֣שֵֽׁק1 of 8

“He that oppresseth”

H6231

to press upon, i.e., oppress, defraud, violate, overflow

דָּ֭ל2 of 8

“the poor”

H1800

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

לְהַרְבּ֣וֹת3 of 8

“to increase”

H7235

to increase (in whatever respect)

ל֑וֹ4 of 8
H0
נֹתֵ֥ן5 of 8

“his riches and he that giveth”

H5414

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

לְ֝עָשִׁ֗יר6 of 8

“to the rich”

H6223

rich, whether literal or figurative (noble)

אַךְ7 of 8
H389

a particle of affirmation, surely; hence (by limitation) only

לְמַחְסֽוֹר׃8 of 8

“shall surely come to want”

H4270

deficiency; hence, impoverishment

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 22:16 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 22:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Proverbs 22:22-23James 2:13Psalms 12:5Luke 6:33-35Luke 14:12-14James 5:1-5

Test Your Knowledge

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

Continue Your Study

Read Proverbs 22 with CommentaryAll Proverbs ChaptersComplete Proverbs QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes