Proverbs 12:9 - Clarke's commentary and critical notes on the Bible

Bible Comments

He that is despised, and hath a servant, is better than he that honoureth himself, and lacketh bread. He that is despised, and hath a servant - I believe the Vulgate gives the true sense of this verse: Melior est pauper, et sufficiens sibi; quam gloriosus, et indigens pane.

"Better is the poor man who provides for himself, than the proud who is destitute of bread." The versions in general agree in this sense. This needs no comment. There are some who, through pride of birth, etc., would rather starve, than put their hands to menial labor. Though they may be lords, how much to be preferred is the simple peasant, who supports himself and family by the drudgery of life!

Proverbs 12:9

9 He that is despised, and hath a servant, is better than he that honoureth himself, and lacketh bread.