Old Testament
Proverbs 21:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Whoever ignores the cry of the poor will also cry out and not be heard.
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Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.
What Proverbs 21:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes the importance of being attentive to the needs of the poor. It warns that those who ignore the pleas of the less fortunate will eventually find themselves in a position where their own cries for help go unheard. The message is clear: empathy and compassion are crucial virtues. Ignoring the struggles of others not only harms them but can also lead to one's own downfall. The verse serves as a reminder that our actions towards others can have a direct impact on our own lives. It encourages us to be proactive in helping those in need, as neglecting their cries can result in a lack of support when we face difficulties ourselves. Ultimately, it highlights the interconnectedness of humanity and the moral obligation to care for one another, especially the vulnerable.
How to apply Proverbs 21:13 to your life
To live out this verse, actively listen to those in need around you. Volunteer your time, donate resources, or simply offer support to the poor. By being responsive to their cries, you foster a community of care and ensure that you too will receive help when needed.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Proverbs
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 21:13 mean in simple terms?
Proverbs 21:13 teaches that if you ignore the needs of the poor, you may find yourself in a situation where your own cries for help go unheard. It highlights the importance of compassion and empathy towards others, suggesting that our treatment of those in need can directly affect how we are treated in times of trouble.
How can I apply Proverbs 21:13 in my daily life?
To apply Proverbs 21:13, start by being aware of the needs around you. Volunteer at local shelters, donate to food banks, or simply listen to those who are struggling. By actively engaging with and supporting the poor, you create a culture of care and ensure that you build a network of support for yourself when challenges arise.
What are the consequences of ignoring the poor according to this verse?
The verse warns that ignoring the cries of the poor can lead to a lack of support when you face difficulties. It suggests that neglecting the needs of others not only harms them but can also result in your own suffering, as you may find that your own pleas for help go unheard when you need assistance.
Why is compassion emphasized in Proverbs 21:13?
Compassion is emphasized in Proverbs 21:13 because it reflects our moral responsibility to care for one another, especially the vulnerable. The verse illustrates that empathy is not just a virtue but a necessity for a healthy community, as it fosters mutual support and understanding among individuals.
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