Old Testament
Proverbs 28:8
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Whoever increases their wealth through usury and unjust gain will gather it for someone who will pity the poor.
Compare translations
He that by usury and unjust gain increaseth his substance, he shall gather it for him that will pity the poor.
What Proverbs 28:8 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse warns against the practice of gaining wealth through unethical means, such as usury (charging excessive interest) and unjust gain (exploiting others). It suggests that those who accumulate wealth in this way will ultimately lose it, as it will be given to someone who is compassionate and cares for the poor. The implication is that wealth gained through dishonest practices is not truly secure and will not benefit the one who acquired it. Instead, it will be used to help those in need, highlighting the moral principle that wealth should be obtained and used righteously. The verse serves as a reminder that ethical behavior in financial matters is crucial, and that true prosperity comes from integrity and generosity, not from exploiting others.
How to apply Proverbs 28:8 to your life
To apply this verse, individuals should evaluate their financial practices and ensure they are fair and just. Avoiding exploitative lending and seeking to help those in need can lead to a more fulfilling and ethical life. Remember that true wealth is not just about money, but also about how we treat others.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Moses
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Proverbs 28:8
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Proverbs 28:8
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 28:8 mean?
Proverbs 28:8 warns against acquiring wealth through unethical practices like usury and unjust gain. It suggests that such wealth will ultimately benefit those who are compassionate and care for the poor, emphasizing that dishonest gains are not secure.
What is usury in Proverbs 28:8?
Usury in Proverbs 28:8 refers to the practice of charging excessively high interest rates on loans. The verse condemns this practice as a form of unethical financial behavior that exploits others.
What is the message of Proverbs 28:8?
The message of Proverbs 28:8 is that wealth gained through dishonest means is ultimately fleeting and will be redistributed to those who are kind and help the poor. It highlights the importance of integrity in financial dealings.
How can I apply Proverbs 28:8 in my life?
To apply Proverbs 28:8, assess your financial practices to ensure they are fair and just. Strive to avoid exploitative lending and focus on helping those in need, recognizing that true wealth includes ethical treatment of others.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.