Proverbs 16:8 - Better is a little with righteousness, than great revenues with injustice.
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What does "Proverbs 16:8" mean?
Proverbs 16:8, "Better is a little with righteousness, than great revenues with injustice," is a wisdom statement that highlights the value of integrity over material wealth. Let's break it down:
"Better is a little with righteousness...": This refers to having a small amount of wealth or possessions ("a little"), but acquiring and managing it in an honest, moral, and ethical way ("with righteousness"). It emphasizes the contentment and peace that come from living justly, even if you don't have a lot. Righteousness encompasses things like honesty, fairness, integrity, and adherence to moral principles.
"...than great revenues with injustice.": This contrasts with having a large income or wealth ("great revenues") that has been gained through dishonest, unfair, or unethical means ("with injustice"). "Injustice" encompasses things like stealing, cheating, exploiting others, bribery, or any other form of immoral behavior.
In essence, the verse means:
It is better to have a small amount of wealth that you earned honestly and ethically than to have a large fortune that you acquired through dishonest or unjust practices.
The core message is:
Integrity is more valuable than wealth: The verse prioritizes moral character and ethical conduct over material gain. It suggests that a clean conscience and a good reputation are more important than being rich.
Ill-gotten gains bring problems: While having a lot of money might seem appealing, acquiring it through injustice often leads to guilt, fear of being caught, damaged relationships, and a lack of true peace. The "great revenues" might bring temporary comfort but are ultimately built on a shaky foundation.
Contentment and peace of mind: Living righteously, even if it means having less, brings a sense of peace and contentment that cannot be bought with money.
Practical Implications:
This proverb encourages people to:
Be honest in their business dealings.
Treat others fairly.
Avoid the temptation to cut corners or compromise their integrity for financial gain.
Value a clear conscience over material wealth.
The proverb is a timeless reminder that true success is not just about accumulating riches, but about living a life of integrity and righteousness.
Proverbs 16:8 - Better is a little with righteousness, than great revenues with injustice.
What does "Proverbs 16:8" mean?
Proverbs 16:8, "Better is a little with righteousness, than great revenues with injustice," is a wisdom statement that highlights the value of integrity over material wealth. Let's break it down:
"Better is a little with righteousness...": This refers to having a small amount of wealth or possessions ("a little"), but acquiring and managing it in an honest, moral, and ethical way ("with righteousness"). It emphasizes the contentment and peace that come from living justly, even if you don't have a lot. Righteousness encompasses things like honesty, fairness, integrity, and adherence to moral principles.
"...than great revenues with injustice.": This contrasts with having a large income or wealth ("great revenues") that has been gained through dishonest, unfair, or unethical means ("with injustice"). "Injustice" encompasses things like stealing, cheating, exploiting others, bribery, or any other form of immoral behavior.
In essence, the verse means:
It is better to have a small amount of wealth that you earned honestly and ethically than to have a large fortune that you acquired through dishonest or unjust practices.
The core message is:
Integrity is more valuable than wealth: The verse prioritizes moral character and ethical conduct over material gain. It suggests that a clean conscience and a good reputation are more important than being rich.
Ill-gotten gains bring problems: While having a lot of money might seem appealing, acquiring it through injustice often leads to guilt, fear of being caught, damaged relationships, and a lack of true peace. The "great revenues" might bring temporary comfort but are ultimately built on a shaky foundation.
Contentment and peace of mind: Living righteously, even if it means having less, brings a sense of peace and contentment that cannot be bought with money.
Practical Implications:
This proverb encourages people to:
Be honest in their business dealings.
Treat others fairly.
Avoid the temptation to cut corners or compromise their integrity for financial gain.
Value a clear conscience over material wealth.
The proverb is a timeless reminder that true success is not just about accumulating riches, but about living a life of integrity and righteousness.