What is the meaning of Proverbs 11:26? The people will curse “People will curse the hoarder of grain…” (Proverbs 11:26) • Scripture states plainly that society reacts against selfish restraint of necessities. This is not merely a figure of speech—it is an observable outcome affirmed by Romans 1:32, where wrongdoers “approve” evil, yet also condemn it in others, showing an innate moral awareness. • In Amos 8:4-7 the Lord rebukes merchants who manipulate food prices; the populace groans, and God hears the outcry. • Proverbs 24:24 warns that those who excuse wicked behavior draw public curses; here, the withholding of grain is that wicked behavior. The hoarder of grain “…the hoarder of grain…” • Hoarding depicts deliberate withholding for personal gain while others lack provision. Luke 12:16-21’s rich fool embodies this attitude—his barns burst, yet he shares with no one, and God calls him to account. • Joseph stored grain in Genesis 41, but for later distribution; the distinction shows hoarding is not prudent planning but selfish profiteering. • James 5:1-5 exposes wealthy landowners who “hoarded treasure in the last days”; their unused wealth testifies against them. But blessing will crown “…but blessing will crown…” • Divine favor actively rests on the generous. Proverbs 22:9 promises, “A generous man will be blessed, for he shares his bread with the poor.” Blessing here is tangible—peace, reputation, even material increase (Malachi 3:10-12). • 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 reinforces the principle: “He who sows generously will also reap generously,” and God “is able to make all grace abound” to the cheerful giver. • The imagery of a crown signals public honor (Proverbs 17:6), contrasting the curses that fall on the hoarder. The one who sells it “…the one who sells it.” • Selling, rather than stockpiling, ensures grain reaches the marketplace where families can buy food. It represents fair commerce, not exploitative charity. • Isaiah 55:1 models this generosity: “Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost,” picturing accessible provision. • Acts 4:34-35 portrays early believers who sold fields to meet needs; their stewardship drew “great grace” upon the church (v. 33). • The virtuous woman of Proverbs 31:24 “delivers sashes to the merchant,” showing diligent enterprise that blesses others. summary Proverbs 11:26 teaches plainly that God condemns selfish withholding of essential resources and rewards open-handed distribution. Hoarding provokes public and divine displeasure; fair, timely commerce and generosity invite honor and blessing. The verse calls believers to steward material goods so that others flourish, reflecting the character of the God who “did not even spare His own Son, but gave Him up for us all” (Romans 8:32). |
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