Proverbs 22:16 web — Whoever oppresses the poor for his own increase and whoever gives to the rich, both come to poverty.

World English Bible

"Whoever oppresses the poor for his own increase and whoever gives to the rich, both come to poverty."

— Proverbs 22:16, World English Bible

Read in Another Translation

5 of 21 translations

Proverbs 22:16 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations

Proverbs 22 — Context

13

The sluggard says, "There is a lion outside! I will be killed in the streets!"

14

The mouth of an adulteress is a deep pit: he who is under Yahweh's wrath will fall into it.

15

Folly is bound up in the heart of a child: the rod of discipline drives it far from him.

16

Whoever oppresses the poor for his own increase and whoever gives to the rich, both come to poverty.

17

Turn your ear, and listen to the words of the wise. Apply your heart to my teaching.

18

For it is a pleasant thing if you keep them within you, if all of them are ready on your lips.

19

That your trust may be in Yahweh, I teach you today, even you.

Proverbs 22:16 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 22:16 say?
Proverbs 22:16 in the World English Bible reads: “Whoever oppresses the poor for his own increase and whoever gives to the rich, both come to poverty.”
Where is Proverbs 22:16 in the Bible?
Proverbs 22:16 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 22, verse 16.
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 22:16.
What translation should I read Proverbs 22:16 in?
Proverbs 22:16 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 22:16?
Proverbs 22:16 reads (WEB): “Whoever oppresses the poor for his own increase and whoever gives to the rich, both come to poverty.” 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.
GodsGoodBook logo

GodsGoodBook

Making God's Word accessible to everyone

Experience the Bible like never before with multiple translations, powerful search tools, and features to make God's Word personal to you. Completely free, forever.

Features

15+ Bible Translations
Powerful Search Tools
Highlight & Annotate
Share Verses
100% Free Forever
© 2025 GodsGoodBookVersion 1.8.2