Proverbs 22:1 - Joseph Benson’s Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

A good name A good reputation among wise and good men; is rather to be chosen than great riches That is, we should be more careful to pursue that course of life, and do those things, by which we may obtain and retain a good name, than that way and those things by which we may raise and increase a great estate. For great riches bring great cares with them, and expose men to danger, but add no real value to a man. A fool and a knave may have great riches, but a good name, which supposes a man to be wise and honest, redounds to the glory of God, and gives a man a greater opportunity of doing good. By great riches we may relieve men's bodily wants; but, by a good name, we may recommend religion to them; and loving favour Hebrew חן שׂוב, good grace, or favour; that is, an interest in the esteem and affections of all about us, or hearty love and kindness from them; rather than silver and gold Is a blessing much more to be prized than the possession of abundance of gold and silver.