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Proverbs 19:17

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

When someone shows kindness and helps the poor, it's like lending money to the LORD himself; and God will pay back whatever that person has given.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

This verse teaches that when we help poor people, God sees it as if we're doing a favor for him personally, and he promises to reward our generosity.

📚 Historical Context

This proverb was written during a time when caring for the poor was considered a sacred duty in Hebrew culture. In ancient Israel, there were no government welfare systems, so communities relied on individual generosity and religious obligation to care for those in need. The concept of 'lending to the LORD' reflects the Hebrew understanding that all wealth ultimately belongs to God.

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