Proverbs 21:26 - There are those who covet greedily all day long; but the righteous give and don’t withhold.
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What does "Proverbs 21:26" mean?
Proverbs 21:26 contrasts two distinct attitudes and behaviors towards wealth and possessions. Let's break it down:
"There are those who covet greedily all day long...": This refers to individuals who are characterized by a constant and insatiable desire for more. They are driven by greed, always wanting what others have or simply wanting more for themselves. The phrase "all day long" emphasizes the pervasive and relentless nature of this covetousness. They are consumed by their desire for wealth and possessions.
"...but the righteous give and don’t withhold.": This part presents the contrasting behavior of righteous individuals. Instead of hoarding and constantly desiring more, they are generous and willing to share what they have with others. "Give" implies a proactive and intentional act of sharing. "Don't withhold" means they don't hold back from giving when they see a need or have the opportunity to help. They are not stingy or reluctant to part with their possessions.
In essence, the verse highlights the difference between:
Greed and Selfishness: Represented by those who covet and are never satisfied.
Generosity and Righteousness: Represented by those who are willing to give and share with others.
Meaning and Implications:
The verse suggests that a generous spirit is a hallmark of righteousness. Righteousness is not just about following rules, but about having a heart that is oriented towards compassion and generosity.
It contrasts a lifestyle driven by acquisition with one driven by service and compassion.
It implies that true satisfaction and fulfillment come not from accumulating wealth, but from sharing it with others.
The act of giving is seen as a moral and ethical obligation for the righteous, not merely an optional act of charity.
It connects greed with unrighteousness and generosity with righteousness, suggesting that our attitude toward material possessions reflects our moral character.
In modern terms:
This verse could be interpreted as a commentary on the dangers of consumerism and the importance of charitable giving and altruism. It encourages individuals to prioritize helping others over accumulating personal wealth and to avoid the trap of constantly wanting more.
Proverbs 21:26 - There are those who covet greedily all day long; but the righteous give and don’t withhold.
What does "Proverbs 21:26" mean?
Proverbs 21:26 contrasts two distinct attitudes and behaviors towards wealth and possessions. Let's break it down:
"There are those who covet greedily all day long...": This refers to individuals who are characterized by a constant and insatiable desire for more. They are driven by greed, always wanting what others have or simply wanting more for themselves. The phrase "all day long" emphasizes the pervasive and relentless nature of this covetousness. They are consumed by their desire for wealth and possessions.
"...but the righteous give and don’t withhold.": This part presents the contrasting behavior of righteous individuals. Instead of hoarding and constantly desiring more, they are generous and willing to share what they have with others. "Give" implies a proactive and intentional act of sharing. "Don't withhold" means they don't hold back from giving when they see a need or have the opportunity to help. They are not stingy or reluctant to part with their possessions.
In essence, the verse highlights the difference between:
Greed and Selfishness: Represented by those who covet and are never satisfied.
Generosity and Righteousness: Represented by those who are willing to give and share with others.
Meaning and Implications:
The verse suggests that a generous spirit is a hallmark of righteousness. Righteousness is not just about following rules, but about having a heart that is oriented towards compassion and generosity.
It contrasts a lifestyle driven by acquisition with one driven by service and compassion.
It implies that true satisfaction and fulfillment come not from accumulating wealth, but from sharing it with others.
The act of giving is seen as a moral and ethical obligation for the righteous, not merely an optional act of charity.
It connects greed with unrighteousness and generosity with righteousness, suggesting that our attitude toward material possessions reflects our moral character.
In modern terms:
This verse could be interpreted as a commentary on the dangers of consumerism and the importance of charitable giving and altruism. It encourages individuals to prioritize helping others over accumulating personal wealth and to avoid the trap of constantly wanting more.