Proverbs 22:2 The rich and poor meet together: the LORD is the maker of them all. In the distinction between the rich and the poor there is something not altogether pleasant to the human mind. We are apt to recoil from it. Frequently the dissatisfaction increases as we can discover no just rule for the unequal distribution of riches. The mind of the author of this proverb was led away from the distinctions between these two classes to notice agreements between these classes. 1. There is a substantial agreement between rich and poor in their origin and their situation as they enter the world. They are equally dependent, equally helpless, equally miserable. 2. In their training and preparation for after-life. 3. A value is set upon riches as a means of enjoyment or usefulness. With the rich and poor alike there is a desire for wealth which arises from the hope of making it useful to one's own. 4. But for cherished erroneous notions, the rich and the poor would act together with more efficiency and more good-will. Public good would be more promoted. 5. Between rich and poor there is a substantial agreement in all the organs of perception and enjoyment. The poor man's organisation throughout is as perfect as the rich man's. 6. In the intellectual faculties there is a strong resemblance. 7. And in the original passions of men. 8. They are alike in their natural and equal dependence upon one another. Neither class can dispense with the other and stand independent and alone. 9. There is a nearly equal distribution of the disappointments, vexations, and distresses of life. 10. There is perfect equality among men in their capabilities for religion. (J. S. Spencer, D.D.) Parallel Verses KJV: The rich and poor meet together: the LORD is the maker of them all.WEB: The rich and the poor have this in common: Yahweh is the maker of them all. |
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