KJV ORIGINAL
Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
Don't hold back good things from people who deserve them, when you have the power to help them.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
This verse is teaching us to act generously and justly toward others when we have the ability to do so, rather than withholding help or good things that people rightfully deserve.
📚 Historical Context
This proverb comes from Solomon's collection of wisdom teachings, written during Israel's golden age around 950 BC. In ancient Hebrew culture, community responsibility and care for others was central to maintaining social harmony. The principle reflects the covenant relationship God had with Israel, where justice and mercy were expected to flow from those with resources to those in need.
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