Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.
Money gained through empty schemes and dishonest ways will disappear, but the person who earns wealth through hard work will see it grow.
This verse teaches that wealth built on dishonesty or get-rich-quick schemes won't last, but money earned through honest hard work will multiply and endure.
📚 Historical Context
Proverbs is part of the Wisdom Literature in the Old Testament, attributed to King Solomon, who sought to teach practical life lessons to his son and the people of Israel during a time of relative peace and prosperity in ancient Israel. In this cultural context, wealth was often seen as a blessing from God, but it was emphasized that dishonest or frivolous means of acquiring it, like vanity or deceit, led to instability, while honest labor was valued for building lasting security. This reflects the broader biblical worldview that valued diligence and integrity in everyday economic activities.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.