Proverbs 11:26
“He that withholdeth corn, the people shall curse him: but blessing shall be upon the head of him that selleth it.”
Proverbs 11:26 (KJV) states: He that withholdeth corn, the people shall curse him: but blessing shall be upon the head of him that selleth it.
This verse is a part of the book of Proverbs, which is a collection of wise sayings and teachings attributed mainly to King Solomon. Proverbs contains practical advice for everyday living and addresses various aspects of life, including relationships, work, finances, and morality.
In Proverbs 11:26, two contrasting actions and their corresponding outcomes are presented. Let’s break down the verse and explore its meaning:
Withholding corn:The verse begins with the phrase "He that withholdeth corn." In ancient times, corn (or grain) was a staple food and a valuable commodity. This phrase represents someone who has an abundance of resources, specifically corn, and chooses to withhold it rather than sharing or selling it.
The people shall curse him:The verse continues, stating that if someone withholds corn, the people will curse them. This implies that the act of hoarding or withholding resources while others are in need is looked down upon and invites the disapproval of others. It suggests that selfishness and a lack of generosity can lead to negative consequences, including the disdain of those who are in need.
Blessing shall be upon the head of him that selleth it:The second part of the verse provides an alternative action and its outcome. It states that "blessing shall be upon the head of him that selleth it." This implies that those who are willing to share or sell their resources, even in times of scarcity, will be blessed. By selling the corn, they are meeting the needs of others and demonstrating generosity and compassion.
Overall, Proverbs 11:26 emphasizes the importance of generosity and the negative consequences of hoarding resources. It encourages a mindset of sharing and providing for the needs of others, promoting a spirit of kindness and compassion. The verse suggests that those who are willing to bless others with their resources will themselves receive blessings in return.
This verse has relevance not only in the context of material resources but also in terms of sharing one’s time, talents, and other blessings with those in need. It reminds us of the value of generosity and the potential rewards that come with it.
