Proverbs 22:16
Whoever oppresses the poor to increase his own wealth, or gives to the rich, will only come to poverty.
In context
13 The sluggard says, “There is a lion outside! I shall be killed in the streets!” 14 The mouth of forbidden women is a deep pit; he with whom the Lord is angry will fall into it. 15 Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline drives it far from him. 16 Whoever oppresses the poor to increase his own wealth, or gives to the rich, will only come to poverty.
17 Incline your ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply your heart to my knowledge, 18 for it will be pleasant if you keep them within you, if all of them are ready on your lips. 19 That your trust may be in the Lord, I have made them known to you today, even to you.
Compare in other versions
- KJV King James Version
— Proverbs 22:16 in the KJV
He that oppresseth the poor to increase his riches, And he that giveth to the rich, shall surely come to want.
- NIV New International Version
— Proverbs 22:16 in the NIV
One who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and one who gives gifts to the rich—both come to poverty.