The poor is hated even of his own neighbour: but the rich hath many friends.
Poor people are disliked even by their own neighbors, but rich people have many friends.
This verse observes the sad reality that people often treat others differently based on their wealth - avoiding the poor while seeking friendship with the rich.
📚 Historical Context
In the time of King Solomon, who is traditionally credited with writing Proverbs, ancient Israelite society placed a high value on wisdom and observed how wealth shaped social relationships. People in that culture often favored the rich for their resources and influence, while the poor were frequently marginalized and even shunned by neighbors, reflecting a broader human tendency toward materialism. This proverb serves as a timeless observation on the pitfalls of such social dynamics in a world where economic status influenced daily interactions.
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