Proverbs 14:21 kjv — He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.

King James Version

"He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he."

— Proverbs 14:21, King James Version

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Proverbs 14:21 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations

Proverbs 14 — Context

18

The simple inherit folly: but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

19

The evil bow before the good; and the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

20

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

21

He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.

22

Do they not err that devise evil? but mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good.

23

In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury.

24

The crown of the wise is their riches: but the foolishness of fools is folly.

Proverbs 14:21 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 14:21 say?
Proverbs 14:21 in the King James Version reads: “He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.”
Where is Proverbs 14:21 in the Bible?
Proverbs 14:21 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 14, verse 21.
Who wrote Proverbs?
Proverbs is traditionally attributed to Solomon (primarily), with sections by Agur and Lemuel. It was written c. 970–700 BC.
What is the book of Proverbs about?
Proverbs is practical wisdom for everyday life — short, vivid sayings on speech, work, money, friendship, sex, parenting, and the fear of the LORD. It teaches that wisdom is not mere cleverness but a way of walking with God in a complicated world.
What are the major themes of Proverbs?
Proverbs explores themes including Wisdom, Folly, Fear of the LORD, Discipline, Speech, Diligence. These themes shape the meaning and context of Proverbs 14:21.
What translation should I read Proverbs 14:21 in?
Proverbs 14:21 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize Proverbs 14:21?
Proverbs 14:21 reads (KJV): “He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.
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