Proverbs 18:23 web — The poor plead for mercy, but the rich answer harshly.

World English Bible

"The poor plead for mercy, but the rich answer harshly."

— Proverbs 18:23, World English Bible

Read in Another Translation

5 of 21 translations

Proverbs 18:23 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations

Proverbs 18 — Context

20

A man's stomach is filled with the fruit of his mouth. With the harvest of his lips he is satisfied.

21

Death and life are in the power of the tongue; those who love it will eat its fruit.

22

Whoever finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor of Yahweh.

23

The poor plead for mercy, but the rich answer harshly.

24

A man of many companions may be ruined, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Proverbs 18:23 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 18:23 say?
Proverbs 18:23 in the World English Bible reads: “The poor plead for mercy, but the rich answer harshly.”
Where is Proverbs 18:23 in the Bible?
Proverbs 18:23 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 18, verse 23.
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 18:23.
What translation should I read Proverbs 18:23 in?
Proverbs 18:23 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 18:23?
Proverbs 18:23 reads (WEB): “The poor plead for mercy, but the rich answer harshly.” 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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