Proverbs 14:20

Modern

The poor man is hated even by his neighbor, but many are those who love the rich.

Traditional

The poor is hated even of his own neighbour: but the rich hath many friends.

Literal

The poor one is hated even by his neighbor, and those loving the rich one are many.

Latin

Etiam proximo suo pauper odiosus erit: amici vero divitum multi.

Hebrew

English

The poor man is hated even by his neighbor, but many are those who love the rich.

This proverb might advise moderation, suggesting having neither too little nor too much (Proverbs 30:7–9).

Theme notes and profiles

Proverbs 19:4
Wealth attracts many friends, but a poor man is deserted by his friend.
Proverbs 10:15
The wealth of the rich man is his fortified city, but poverty is the ruin of the poor.
Job 30:10
They abhor me and keep far from me; they do not hesitate to spit in my face.
Proverbs 19:6–7
Many seek the favor of the prince, and everyone is a friend of the gift giver.
Job 6:21–23
For now you are of no help; you see terror, and you are afraid.
Esther 5:10–11
Nevertheless, Haman restrained himself and went home. And calling for his friends and his wife Zeresh,
Esther 3:2
All the royal servants at the king’s gate bowed down and paid homage to Haman, because the king had commanded that this be done for him. But Mordecai would not bow down or pay homage.
Job 19:13–14
He has removed my brothers from me; my acquaintances have abandoned me.