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Proverbs 18:11
The rich man's wealthis his strong city, and as an high wall in his own conceit.

Job 31:24,25
If I have made gold my hope, or have said to the fine gold,Thou art my confidence; …

Psalm 49:6
They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches;

the destruction

Proverbs 14:20
The poor is hated even of his own neighbour: but the richhath many friends.

Proverbs 19:7
All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him? he pursueththem with words,yet theyare wantingto him.

Proverbs 22:22,23
Rob not the poor, because heis poor: neither oppress the afflicted in the gate: …

but poverty is the ruin of the poor
Poverty, in contrast, is depicted as a destructive force. In biblical times, the poor were often vulnerable to exploitation and lacked the means to protect themselves from economic and social hardships. The term "ruin" suggests a complete downfall or destruction, emphasizing the severe impact poverty can have on an individual's life. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative that calls for justice and care for the poor, as seen in the laws given to Israel (Deuteronomy 15:7-11) and the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized compassion and aid for the needy (Matthew 25:35-40). The verse underscores the disparity between the rich and the poor, a theme prevalent throughout Scripture, and serves as a reminder of the responsibility to support and uplift those in poverty, reflecting God's heart for justice and mercy.

“The wealth of the rich man…” (Proverbs 10:15)

• Wealth is a real, measurable blessing acknowledged in Scripture (Deuteronomy 8:18;Proverbs 3:9-10).

• It can be received gratefully and stewarded for God’s glory (Proverbs 10:22;1 Timothy 6:17-19).

• Possessions, however, belong to the individual; the verse sets up how a person relates to what he owns.

“…is his fortified city.” (Proverbs 10:15 a)

• In Solomon’s day a fortified city meant high walls, gates, and guards—visible security.

•Proverbs 18:11 echoes: “A rich man’s wealth is his fortified city; it is like a high wall in his imagination.”

• Money can indeed buy protection: legal help, food reserves, medical care (Proverbs 13:8).

• Yet wealth’s defense is limited—illness, sin, and death breach any wall (Psalm 49:6-9;Luke 12:19-21).

• Lasting refuge is only in the LORD: “The LORD is my rock, my fortress…” (Psalm 18:2); “In the fear of the LORD one has strong confidence” (Proverbs 14:26).

“…but poverty…” (Proverbs 10:15 b)

• Scripture links poverty to various causes: laziness (Proverbs 10:4), injustice (Proverbs 14:31), calamity (Job 1:13-19).

• Rich and poor share one Creator (Proverbs 22:2); poverty is not shameful, but it is hazardous.

• Lacking resources magnifies vulnerability (Ecclesiastes 9:15-16).

• Wisdom urges diligence (Proverbs 21:5), balanced desire (Proverbs 30:8-9), and compassionate care for those in need (Deuteronomy 15:7-8).

“…is the ruin of the poor.” (Proverbs 10:15 b)

• “Ruin” pictures collapse—poverty can wreck health, reputation, and life itself (Proverbs 13:23).

• Desperation tempts the needy toward wrongdoing or despair (Proverbs 30:9).

• God calls His people to intervene: “If a brother or sister is poorly clothed… and you do not provide… what good is that?” (James 2:15-17).

• Sharing resources demonstrates genuine love (1 John 3:17) and mirrors Christ, who “though He was rich… became poor” for our sake (2 Corinthians 8:9).

Proverbs 10:15 paints a contrast: wealth feels like protective walls, poverty like collapsing ruins. The verse simply describes reality, urging wise stewardship and compassionate action. Money offers temporary shelter, but only the LORD is an unbreachable fortress. Whether rich or poor, our ultimate security must rest in Him—and His people are called to extend His protection to those who lack it.

Καὶ γὰρ ἀνὴρ πενίῃ δεδμημένος οὔτέ τι εἰπεῖν Οὔθ ἕρξαι δύναται γλῶσσα δὲ οἱ δέδεται

"A man, by crushing poverty subdued,
Can freely nothing either say or do -
His very tongue is tied."

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