Proverbs 21:13
Whoso stoppeth his eares at the cry of the poore, hee also shall cry himselfe, but shall not be heard. Proverbs 21:13 (KJV)
The Book of Proverbs is a collection of wisdom literature in the Old Testament attributed primarily to King Solomon. Proverbs are short, concise statements that provide practical guidance for living a wise and righteous life. This particular verse addresses the importance of compassion and care for the poor.
The verse begins by highlighting the behaviour of someone who “stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor.” This individual intentionally ignores or disregards the pleas and needs of those who are less fortunate, implying a lack of empathy and a refusal to help those in desperate situations.
It then describes the consequence of such indifference: “he shall cry also, but shall not be heard.” This suggests that when a person ignores the cries of the poor, they will later face their own distress or hardship, yet their pleas for help will find no listener or assistance. The principle of reaping what one sows is evident, as God’s justice denies mercy to those who refuse to show it.
Proverbs 21:13 reminds us of the importance of having a compassionate heart toward the less fortunate. God calls His people to care for the poor, help the needy, and show mercy to those in distress. By doing so we fulfil our duty to others and demonstrate our love for God and obedience to His commandments.
The verse also teaches the principle of sowing and reaping. Our actions have consequences, and how we treat others—especially the poor—will impact our own lives. When we show kindness and compassion to those in need, we can expect to receive God’s grace and mercy in return. Conversely, turning a blind eye to suffering may leave us without anyone willing to lend a hand when we are in need.
Proverbs 21:13 challenges us to examine our own hearts and attitudes toward those who are less fortunate. It encourages us to cultivate a heart of compassion and generosity, seeking opportunities to extend a helping hand. We should actively listen to the cries of the poor and respond with love, kindness, and tangible assistance whenever possible.
In summary, this proverb urges us to pay attention to the cries of the poor and to respond with compassion. It warns that those who ignore the pleas of the needy will themselves experience distress without finding help. Let this verse remind us of the importance of actively caring for the less fortunate and treating others with kindness, sowing seeds of compassion that will bear fruit in our own lives.
