King James Version

What Does Proverbs 22:2 Mean?

Proverbs 22:2 in the King James Version says “The rich and poor meet together: the LORD is the maker of them all.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

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

Proverbs 22:2 · 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.

4

By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life. By: or, The reward of humility, etc

Read Proverbs 22 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Rich and poor have commonality: 'the LORD is the maker of them all.' Despite economic disparities, all humans share equal status as God's creatures. The Hebrew 'asah' (maker/Creator) emphasizes God's sovereignty over all. This grounds human dignity and equality in creation, not in wealth or status. Reformed theology's doctrine of imago Dei insists that all people, regardless of economic position, bear God's image and deserve respect. This verse rebukes both pride in the wealthy and despair in the poor, and condemns economic oppression.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient societies were highly stratified economically. This proverb's assertion of common creation was countercultural, insisting that social hierarchy didn't erase fundamental equality before God.

Reflection Questions

  1. Do you view all people as equally valuable image-bearers regardless of economic status?
  2. How should this truth shape your treatment of the poor and attitudes toward wealth?
  3. What are the social implications of affirming that God is maker of both rich and poor?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
עָשִׁ֣יר1 of 6

“The rich”

H6223

rich, whether literal or figurative (noble)

וָרָ֣שׁ2 of 6

“and poor”

H7326

to be destitute

נִפְגָּ֑שׁוּ3 of 6

“meet together”

H6298

to come in contact with, whether by accident or violence; figuratively, to concur

עֹשֵׂ֖ה4 of 6

“is the maker”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

כֻלָּ֣ם5 of 6
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

יְהוָֽה׃6 of 6

“the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

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 22:2 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 22:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Job 31:151 Samuel 2:7Proverbs 14:31Proverbs 29:13James 2:2-5Job 34:19

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