“People will curse him who withholds grain, But blessing will be on the head of him who sells it” (Proverbs 11:26). This proverb points to the importance of generosity and ethical conduct in commerce. In ancient Israelite culture, those who controlled grain supplies wielded significant influence because food was essential for survival. Here, Solomon—who reigned as king over Israel (970-931 BC)—observes how withholding a necessary good can bring social backlash, while fair and honest trade earns respect and favor. The phrase “People will curse him” underscores the communal resentment towards anyone exploiting a position of power or resource control for personal gain.
“People will curse him who withholds grain” (Proverbs 11:26) draws attention to the harmful effects of greed. When individuals keep resources in times of scarcity, it fosters anger and negative consequences for the community. This concept echoes the principle found in the teachings of Jesus, who praised those who shared their abundance to meet others’ needs (Luke 6:38). Hoarding—rather than distributing—valuable resources reveals a self-centered stance that damages relationships and prevents the spread of blessing to neighbors.
Conversely, “But blessing will be on the head of him who sells it” (Proverbs 11:26) encourages open-handed generosity. Selling fairly rather than withholding cultivates goodwill and community flourishing. The seller receives a “blessing,” reinforcing that God’s favor and human approval rest on righteous action. This principle demonstrates how living in alignment with godly wisdom promotes both spiritual and material well-being, reflecting the biblical ideal of caring for one’s neighbor (Mark 12:31).
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Proverbs 11:26 meaning
“People will curse him who withholds grain, But blessing will be on the head of him who sells it” (Proverbs 11:26). This proverb points to the importance of generosity and ethical conduct in commerce. In ancient Israelite culture, those who controlled grain supplies wielded significant influence because food was essential for survival. Here, Solomon—who reigned as king over Israel (970-931 BC)—observes how withholding a necessary good can bring social backlash, while fair and honest trade earns respect and favor. The phrase “People will curse him” underscores the communal resentment towards anyone exploiting a position of power or resource control for personal gain.
“People will curse him who withholds grain” (Proverbs 11:26) draws attention to the harmful effects of greed. When individuals keep resources in times of scarcity, it fosters anger and negative consequences for the community. This concept echoes the principle found in the teachings of Jesus, who praised those who shared their abundance to meet others’ needs (Luke 6:38). Hoarding—rather than distributing—valuable resources reveals a self-centered stance that damages relationships and prevents the spread of blessing to neighbors.
Conversely, “But blessing will be on the head of him who sells it” (Proverbs 11:26) encourages open-handed generosity. Selling fairly rather than withholding cultivates goodwill and community flourishing. The seller receives a “blessing,” reinforcing that God’s favor and human approval rest on righteous action. This principle demonstrates how living in alignment with godly wisdom promotes both spiritual and material well-being, reflecting the biblical ideal of caring for one’s neighbor (Mark 12:31).