Proverbs 22:16
He that oppresses the poor to increase his riches, and he that gives to the rich, shall surely come to lack.
Updated King James Version
In The King James Version
In Context
15Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.
17Bow down yours ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply yours heart unto my knowledge.
Cross References
Job 20:19Because he has oppressed and has forsaken the poor; because he has violently taken away an house which he built not;
Proverbs 14:31He that oppresses the poor reproaches his Maker: but he that honors him has mercy on the poor.
Proverbs 28:3A poor man that oppresses the poor is like a sweeping rain which left no food.
Micah 2:2And they covet fields, and take them by violence; and houses, and take them away: so they oppress a man and his house, even a man and his heritage.
Luke 6:33And if all of you do good to them which do good to you, what thank have all of you? for sinners also do even the same.
Luke 16:24And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.
Matthew Henry on Proverbs 22:16
15 Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him. We have here two very sad considerations:— 1. That corruption is woven into our nature. Sin is foolishness; it is contrary both to our right reason and to our true interest. It is in the heart; there is an inward inclination to sin, to speak and act foolishly. It is in the heart of children; they bring it into the world with them; it is what they were shapen and conceived in. It is not only found there, but it… Read the whole commentary →