Proverbs 10:22 Explained

"The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it." — Proverbs 10:22 (KJV)

Frequently used as a promise of wealth. The second clause is doing something more careful than that.

Read it in context: The Book of Proverbs. Also gathered under verses about success.

Proverbs 10:22 in context

What does Proverbs 10:22 mean?

The contrast is between two ways of getting the same result. 'He addeth no sorrow' distinguishes blessing from wealth acquired by grasping, which Proverbs elsewhere says comes with grief attached — anxiety, enemies, a life spent guarding it. The verse does not promise riches to the faithful; it describes what God's blessing is like when it comes, which may be modest.

What is the context of Proverbs 10:22?

It sits among Proverbs' sayings about work, wealth and diligence — a section that elsewhere warns bluntly about riches gained hastily and about trusting them. The book is not naive about money and this verse should not be read as if it were.

How do I pray Proverbs 10:22?

Pray it about something you already have rather than something you want, and ask whether sorrow came attached — that is the diagnostic the verse offers. Then pray it about whatever you are currently pursuing, and ask what it will cost to hold once you get it.

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