Proverbs 16:19 - It is better to be of a lowly spirit with the poor, than to divide the plunder with the proud.
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What does "Proverbs 16:19" mean?
Proverbs 16:19, "It is better to be of a lowly spirit with the poor, than to divide the plunder with the proud," speaks to the value of humility and integrity over material gain and association with arrogance. Here's a breakdown of what it means:
"Lowly spirit with the poor": This refers to being humble and content, even if you are in a situation of material poverty. It means having a good character and being compassionate towards those who have less. It suggests being grounded and not seeking status or wealth at the expense of your principles.
"Divide the plunder with the proud": This describes the act of sharing in ill-gotten gains or benefits that come from association with arrogant, unethical, or oppressive individuals. "Plunder" suggests something taken unjustly or dishonestly. "Proud" represents those who are arrogant, self-important, and often exploit others to gain wealth or power.
The comparison: The verse contrasts these two scenarios, stating that it is preferable to be humble and live with integrity, even in poverty, than to compromise your values by associating with the proud and benefiting from their misdeeds.
In essence, the verse is saying:
Character is more valuable than wealth. It's better to have a good heart and humble spirit, even if you're poor, than to compromise your morals for material gain.
Avoid the company of the arrogant and unethical. Don't be tempted by the prospect of easy riches if it means associating with those who are proud, exploitative, or dishonest.
Integrity is paramount. It's better to live a life of integrity and contentment, even with limited resources, than to gain wealth through unethical means.
The verse emphasizes the importance of choosing humility, integrity, and compassion over the allure of wealth and the company of the arrogant. It is a call to prioritize moral character over material possessions and social status.
Proverbs 16:19 - It is better to be of a lowly spirit with the poor, than to divide the plunder with the proud.
What does "Proverbs 16:19" mean?
Proverbs 16:19, "It is better to be of a lowly spirit with the poor, than to divide the plunder with the proud," speaks to the value of humility and integrity over material gain and association with arrogance. Here's a breakdown of what it means:
"Lowly spirit with the poor": This refers to being humble and content, even if you are in a situation of material poverty. It means having a good character and being compassionate towards those who have less. It suggests being grounded and not seeking status or wealth at the expense of your principles.
"Divide the plunder with the proud": This describes the act of sharing in ill-gotten gains or benefits that come from association with arrogant, unethical, or oppressive individuals. "Plunder" suggests something taken unjustly or dishonestly. "Proud" represents those who are arrogant, self-important, and often exploit others to gain wealth or power.
The comparison: The verse contrasts these two scenarios, stating that it is preferable to be humble and live with integrity, even in poverty, than to compromise your values by associating with the proud and benefiting from their misdeeds.
In essence, the verse is saying:
Character is more valuable than wealth. It's better to have a good heart and humble spirit, even if you're poor, than to compromise your morals for material gain.
Avoid the company of the arrogant and unethical. Don't be tempted by the prospect of easy riches if it means associating with those who are proud, exploitative, or dishonest.
Integrity is paramount. It's better to live a life of integrity and contentment, even with limited resources, than to gain wealth through unethical means.
The verse emphasizes the importance of choosing humility, integrity, and compassion over the allure of wealth and the company of the arrogant. It is a call to prioritize moral character over material possessions and social status.