Bible Strands
Proverbs 12:9
Better to be lightly esteemed yet have a servant, than to be self-important but lack food.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — The wisdom author addresses a general audience with direct instructional commands characteristic of the book. He presents a practical comparison to guide daily decision-making.
The words — נִקְלֶה (Nik.leh) means a lightly esteemed person, and מְתַכְבֵּד (metakbeid) describes one who honors himself. חֲסַר לָחֶם (chasar lachem) literally denotes lacking food.
The thread — The contrast between humble provision and proud destitution runs through Luke 14:11 and Proverbs 13:7. Both passages record the same pattern of self-exaltation meeting lack while humility meets provision.
Why it lands — The text demands a choice between external reputation and material sustenance, placing concrete provision above social standing. It requires the reader to accept low regard if it secures daily needs rather than chase self-importance into want.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
He that is despised, and hath a servant, is better than he that honoureth himself, and lacketh bread.
Cross-references
- Luke 14:11 For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”
- Proverbs 13:7 One pretends to be rich, but has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth.