Proverbs 30:14 - There is a generation whose teeth are like swords, and their jaws like knives, to devour the poor from the earth, and the needy from among men.

Generated Verse: Proverbs 30:14

What does "Proverbs 30:14" mean?


Proverbs 30:14 describes a specific type of wicked generation characterized by their ruthless exploitation of the vulnerable. Let's break down the meaning:

"There is a generation..." This sets the stage for a description of a specific group of people who share a particular negative characteristic. It's not necessarily all people in a time period, but a segment defined by their actions.

"...whose teeth are like swords, and their jaws like knives..." This is a powerful metaphor describing their predatory nature. Swords and knives are instruments of violence and destruction. These people are not using their "teeth" (influence, power, resources) for constructive purposes. Instead, they are using them to aggressively take from others.

"...to devour the poor from the earth, and the needy from among men." This clarifies who they are preying on. The "poor" and "needy" are the most vulnerable members of society. "To devour" implies complete destruction and annihilation; they are utterly consuming the resources and lives of the disadvantaged. It suggests they are motivated by greed and have no empathy for those less fortunate.

In essence, the verse depicts a generation of people who are ruthless and predatory, using their power and influence to exploit and oppress the poor and needy for their own gain. They are depicted as being as dangerous and destructive as wild animals, their actions having devastating consequences for the vulnerable members of society. The verse serves as a warning against such behavior and an encouragement to protect and care for those in need.

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