Proverbs 17:5 Whoso mocks the poor reproaches his Maker: and he that is glad at calamities shall not be unpunished.
This verse is a solemn warning against two grievous sins: mocking the poor and rejoicing over the misfortunes of others. Both are offences not only against humanity but against God Himself, who is the Creator and Judge of all. To scorn or belittle the poor is to show contempt for the One who made them. God is the Maker of both rich and poor (14:31), and He sees every soul as valuable. When someone mocks the poor, they mock the God who fashioned them with care and purpose.
Two biblical examples of mocking the poor: [1] The Princes of Judah – “The Lord will enter into judgment with the ancients of His people, and the princes thereof: for you have eaten up the vineyard; the spoil of the poor is in your houses.” (Isa. 3:14-15). “To turn aside the needy from judgment, and to take away the right from the poor…” (Isa. 10:2). These leaders oppressed the poor for personal gain, revealing their contempt for God’s justice. [2] The rich in James’ Epistle – “Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields… cries: and the cries… are entered into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth.” (Jas. 5:4). The wealthy withheld wages and exploited workers, showing heartless disregard for the needy. To be continued…
Living the Word 