Proverbs 19:22 Meaning and Explanation
“The desire of a man is his kindness: and a poor man is better than a liar.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →What a person craves reveals their nature; honesty is worth more than wealth.
The Context of Proverbs 19:22
Character, especially honesty, is worth more than material wealth.
What Does Proverbs 19:22 Mean?
The first clause suggests that people desire what matches their nature: a kind person desires kindness, finds it attractive, seeks it out. Your desire reflects who you are. The second part applies this: a poor man (who has little materially) but who tells the truth is of greater worth than a rich liar. Wealth is external, but character—particularly honesty—is intrinsic.
The verse subtly encourages you to examine both what you desire and what you truly value. If you find yourself drawn to deception or cruelty, that reveals the state of your heart. The poor but truthful person outweighs the rich deceiver in dignity and worth, because truth and kindness matter more than gold. What do you actually desire? What does that desire reveal about who you are?
Frequently Asked Questions About Proverbs 19:22
What does Proverbs 19:22 mean?
What a person craves reveals their nature; honesty is worth more than wealth.
What is the context of Proverbs 19:22?
Character, especially honesty, is worth more than material wealth.