By refusing to scorn others and instead extending mercy to the poor, we reflect God’s compassionate character and find lasting joy.
“He who despises his neighbor sins, But happy is he who is gracious to the poor.” (Proverbs 14:21)
Proverbs, largely credited to King Solomon who reigned over Israel from about 971 to 931 BC, continues here with a vivid reminder of how God values our treatment of fellow human beings. In this proverb, Solomon uses the term neighbor as someone close by, underscoring that our interactions should be guided by compassion and mutual respect. To despise a neighbor is not a mere slip-up in etiquette; it is called out plainly as sin, a rebellion against God’s design for people to live in loving harmony. This is contrasted with the joy, described here as happy, that accompanies being gracious to those in need. The Hebrew term for gracious generosity, “Channuwn,” is also linked to this verse, emphasizing pity and benevolence toward the less fortunate.
Being “gracious to the poor” forms an essential part of God’s call to model His own merciful character in daily life (Luke 6:36). This verse aligns with many other biblical admonitions to care for those who lack resources and depend on help from others. By refusing to reduce the needy to an afterthought, the compassionate individual reflects God’s heart, which cherishes each human life. This principle of tenderheartedness is found repeatedly in Scripture, where caring about our neighbor—spiritually, emotionally, and materially—glorifies the Lord and blesses not only the recipient but also the giver (Proverbs 19:17).
In modern terms, practicing this proverb might involve actively refusing to hold grudges or look down on others, while seeking ways to offer kindness and practical support. It reminds readers that in God’s kingdom, humility and generosity eclipse pride and self-interest. Far from being a burden, graciousness toward those in need leads to happiness (deep fulfillment) as we join in the divine nature of mercy.
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Proverbs 14:21 meaning
“He who despises his neighbor sins, But happy is he who is gracious to the poor.” (Proverbs 14:21)
Proverbs, largely credited to King Solomon who reigned over Israel from about 971 to 931 BC, continues here with a vivid reminder of how God values our treatment of fellow human beings. In this proverb, Solomon uses the term neighbor as someone close by, underscoring that our interactions should be guided by compassion and mutual respect. To despise a neighbor is not a mere slip-up in etiquette; it is called out plainly as sin, a rebellion against God’s design for people to live in loving harmony. This is contrasted with the joy, described here as happy, that accompanies being gracious to those in need. The Hebrew term for gracious generosity, “Channuwn,” is also linked to this verse, emphasizing pity and benevolence toward the less fortunate.
Being “gracious to the poor” forms an essential part of God’s call to model His own merciful character in daily life (Luke 6:36). This verse aligns with many other biblical admonitions to care for those who lack resources and depend on help from others. By refusing to reduce the needy to an afterthought, the compassionate individual reflects God’s heart, which cherishes each human life. This principle of tenderheartedness is found repeatedly in Scripture, where caring about our neighbor—spiritually, emotionally, and materially—glorifies the Lord and blesses not only the recipient but also the giver (Proverbs 19:17).
In modern terms, practicing this proverb might involve actively refusing to hold grudges or look down on others, while seeking ways to offer kindness and practical support. It reminds readers that in God’s kingdom, humility and generosity eclipse pride and self-interest. Far from being a burden, graciousness toward those in need leads to happiness (deep fulfillment) as we join in the divine nature of mercy.