He that oppresseth the poor to increase his riches, and he that giveth to the rich, shall surely come to want.
Anyone who takes advantage of poor people to make themselves richer, or who gives gifts to wealthy people to gain favor, will definitely end up in poverty themselves.
This verse warns that exploiting the poor or trying to buy favor with the wealthy will ultimately backfire and lead to your own downfall.
📚 Historical Context
This proverb was written during a time when social and economic inequality was common in ancient Israel. The wealthy often exploited poor laborers, farmers, and debtors, while also practicing favoritism by giving gifts to other wealthy individuals to maintain their social networks. Solomon observed these corrupt practices and warned about their inevitable consequences.
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