He who despises his neighbor sins
Despising one's neighbor is a direct violation of the command to love one's neighbor as oneself, a principle found in Leviticus 19:18 and reiterated by Jesus in Matthew 22:39. In biblical times, neighbors were not just those living in close proximity but included fellow members of the community and even foreigners residing among them. The Hebrew word for "despises" implies a deep-seated contempt or disdain, which is contrary to the spirit of unity and love that God desires among His people. This phrase underscores the moral and ethical responsibility to treat others with respect and dignity, reflecting the image of God in every person. The sin here is not just a social faux pas but a transgression against God's law, highlighting the seriousness of harboring ill will towards others.

but blessed is he who shows kindness to the poor
The concept of blessing in the Bible often denotes a state of happiness or divine favor. Showing kindness to the poor is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing God's concern for the marginalized and vulnerable. Proverbs 19:17 states, "Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward them for what they have done." This reflects the idea that acts of kindness are not only moral obligations but also opportunities to serve God directly. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, the poor were often landless, without means of support, and reliant on the generosity of others. The call to show kindness is a call to action, encouraging believers to reflect God's compassion and justice. This phrase also points to the character of Jesus Christ, who exemplified perfect kindness and compassion, particularly towards the poor and needy, as seen in His ministry throughout the Gospels.

1. Neighbor
In the context of Proverbs, a neighbor refers to anyone in close proximity, not just geographically but also relationally. This includes family, friends, and community members.

2. The Poor
This term refers to those who are economically disadvantaged or marginalized in society. The Bible often emphasizes the importance of caring for the poor as a reflection of God's justice and mercy.

3. Solomon
Traditionally attributed as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the king of Israel known for his wisdom. His proverbs often provide practical guidance for righteous living.The Sin of Despising Others
Despising or looking down on others, especially those close to us, is considered sinful. This attitude reflects a lack of love and compassion, which are central to Christian living.

The Blessing of Kindness
Showing kindness, particularly to the poor, is not only a moral duty but also brings blessings. This aligns with the biblical principle that God honors those who care for the marginalized.

Reflecting God's Character
As Christians, we are called to reflect God's character, which includes mercy and compassion. Our treatment of others, especially the vulnerable, should mirror God's love.

Practical Love in Action
Love is not just a feeling but an action. Practical expressions of love, such as helping those in need, are essential to living out our faith.

Community and Responsibility
We have a responsibility to our community, which includes caring for our neighbors and the poor. This fosters a sense of unity and reflects the body of Christ.Verse 21. - He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth. Taken in connection with the preceding verse, this teaches that it is a sin to despise and shun a man because he is poor or of low estate; such a one has a claim for love and pity, and it is a crime to withhold them from him for selfish considerations. The Christian view is taught by the parable of the good Samaritan. But he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he; hail to him! (Proverbs 16:20). Contempt is contrasted with mercy, sin with blessing. "Blessed are the merciful," said Christ (Matthew 5:7): "for they shall obtain mercy;" and St. Paul preserves another precious word, "It is mere blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35). The merciful disposition, which shows itself in works of mercy, is a proof that the soul is in union with God, whose mercy is over all his works, whose mercy endureth forever, and therefore such a soul is blessed. "The poor," wrote James Howell, "are God's receivers, and the angels are his auditors" ('Five Hundred New Sayings'). The Vulgate here appends a line absent from the Hebrew and the ether versions, "He who believeth in the Lord loveth mercy." The true believer is charitable and bountiful, knowing that he will not hereby impoverish himself, but lay up a rich store of blessing; he acts thus not from mere philanthropy, but from higher motives: he has the grace of charity which springs from and rests upon his faith in God.

Parallel Commentaries ...


He who despises
בָּז־ (bāz-)
Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 936: To disrespect

his neighbor
לְרֵעֵ֥הוּ (lə·rê·‘ê·hū)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 7453: Friend, companion, fellow

sins,
חוֹטֵ֑א (ḥō·w·ṭê)
Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 2398: To miss, to sin, to forfeit, lack, expiate, repent, lead astray, condemn

but blessed is
אַשְׁרָֽיו׃ (’aš·rāw)
Interjection | third person masculine singular
Strong's 835: Happiness, interjection, how happy!

he who shows kindness
וּמְחוֹנֵ֖ן (ū·mə·ḥō·w·nên)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Piel - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 2603: To bend, stoop in kindness to an inferior, to favor, bestow, to implore

to the poor.
עֲנָוִ֣ים (‘ă·nā·wîm)
Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 6041: Poor, afflicted, humble


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OT Poetry: Proverbs 14:21 He who despises his neighbor sins (Prov. Pro Pr)